What should you normally see on your bank statement?

Okay, so you’re wondering what a bank statement should look like, right? I mean, let’s be honest, sometimes I just glance at mine and think, “Did I really spend that much on coffee last month?” Ugh.

Anyway, here’s the lowdown on what you can usually expect to see:

First off, it’ll tell you what dates the statement covers. Obvious, I know, but important! Like, if you’re looking for that one transaction from ages ago, knowing the timeframe helps, right?

Then, you’ll see all the banky details – you know, the bank’s name and how to get ahold of them. Hopefully, you won’t need to contact them, but it’s good to have handy.

Next up, it’s all about you. Your account number and name will be plastered there. Makes sense, gotta make sure it’s your statement! I remember once, my grandma got someone else’s statement by mistake. Total mess!

And then we get to the nitty-gritty: the account summary. This is where you see the beginning and ending balances. Which, let’s face it, can be a moment of either “YES!” or “Oh dear God, what have I done?” Depending on the month, of course.

If you’re lucky enough to have an account that earns interest (remember those days?), it’ll show the interest earned. Honestly, it’s usually so small these days, I almost miss it! But hey, every little bit helps, right?

But the real heart of the statement, the part you probably squint at the most, is the account activity. This is a detailed list of every single transaction, so it’s all the deposits, withdrawals, and all those pesky little fees. You know, the ones that make you go, “Wait, what is that charge?!” This is where you can track down any suspicious activity or just figure out where all your money actually went. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, I tell ya!