Bank Statements
Notarise and Certify Bank Statements
At Wharf Notaries, we understand the importance of certified bank statements in validating large transactions and serving as proof of address. Our team is here to assist you with the notarisation and certification of your bank statements, ensuring they meet the necessary requirements for processes like KYC compliance and property transactions.
What is a Bank Statement?
A bank statement shows the account balance at a specific time, usually covering a monthly or weekly period. It details all transactions—deposits and withdrawals—made during that time, listing each transaction with its date and payment method.
A typical bank statement should include the following details:
- Bank name
- Branch address
- Statement period
- Deposits
- Withdrawals
- Payments
- Service charges
- Beneficiary names
- Contact information
Access to bank statements is restricted to account holders, and sharing them with unknown third parties without consent is prohibited. Today, bank statements are primarily issued electronically, so you’ll need to print them for certification.
Why You Might Need a Certified Bank Statement
Certified bank statements are often required as proof of address, as they display your name, address, and a recent date—usually within the last 3 or 6 months. This is especially important for KYC documentation.
In addition to proving address, certified bank statements may be requested in various contexts, including:
- Interactions with investors
- Communications with creditors and lenders
- Transactions involving business managers or financial institutions
- Property purchases or large acquisitions
They are also used as evidence of tax returns, particularly for business or employment tax filings, and can be essential during tax audits due to the substantial sums involved in property transactions.
How is the Bank Statement Issued?
Bank statements can be issued in two formats:
- Electronically: Downloadable from your bank’s website or app, often referred to as an “e-statement.” If you are unable to download it, you can request a PDF copy via email.
- Paper Statements: Sent to your home address in physical format.
Process to Notarise a Certified Bank Statement
The notarisation process will vary based on how the bank statement was issued:
- For Electronic Statements: You will need to log in to your banking platform and demonstrate to the notary the steps taken to download the PDF copy. The notary will then certify the electronic statement as authentic.
- For Paper Statements: Present the original paper statements to the notary. They will examine the originals, create a copy, and notarise it as a true and accurate representation.
If the notarised bank statement is intended for use in certain countries, it may require an apostille. We advise checking with the requesting party to determine if an apostille is necessary. If you do need one, we offer a Premium service for urgent requests and a Standard service for those with more time.
Furthermore, notarised documents may also need legalisation by the relevant Embassy for the country of use, particularly for nations such as China, UAE, and Qatar. For further details, please consult our Country Requirements section.
If you require a bank statement to be notarised or apostilled, we are here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bank Statements
How much does it cost to notarise a bank statement?
The minimum fee for notarising a bank statement typically starts at £80 plus VAT (£96).
How long does the notarisation process take?
The notarisation process is usually quick and can often be completed during your appointment.
Can I obtain multiple copies of my notarised bank statement?
Yes, you can request additional copies of your notarised bank statement. Please inquire during your appointment.
Is there a difference between a certified bank statement and a regular bank statement?
Yes, a certified bank statement is an official copy that has been verified by a notary, confirming its authenticity, whereas a regular bank statement is simply issued by the bank without any third-party validation.
Do I need to bring anything specific for the notarisation?
Yes, please bring the original bank statements (if paper) or access to your electronic statements, along with valid identification.