WhatsApp Banking: What It Is, How It Works, Services & Safety Tips 

WhatsApp banking lets you access basic banking services such as balance enquiry, mini statements, account updates, service requests and customer support directly on WhatsApp. You generally need to save your bank’s official WhatsApp banking number, send ‘Hi’ from your registered mobile number and choose a service from the chat menu. 

It is useful for quick, everyday banking queries, but it does not replace your mobile banking app or net banking for advanced services such as full fund transfers, investments, detailed account management or high-risk transactions. 

What is WhatsApp Banking? 

WhatsApp banking is a chat-based digital banking service that allows customers to interact with their bank through the bank’s official WhatsApp Business account. Instead of calling customer care or logging into net banking for every small request, customers can use a familiar chat interface to access selected banking services. 

For example, if you want to check your account balance, request a mini statement or locate the nearest ATM, you can simply send a message to your bank’s verified WhatsApp number and follow the menu prompts. 

Many banks use automated chatbots, menu-based options and in some cases, live agent support to respond to customers. WhatsApp banking is commonly used for balance checks, mini statements and service requests, while the exact services may vary from bank to bank. 

How Does WhatsApp Banking Work? 

WhatsApp banking works through the bank’s official WhatsApp Business account, usually supported by automation, APIs and secure customer verification. 

Here’s how it typically works: 

1. The bank creates an official WhatsApp Business account 

Banks generally use verified business profiles or WhatsApp Business Platform/API-based solutions to provide automated and scalable customer support. 

2. The customer opts in 

You may need to save the bank’s WhatsApp number, send ‘Hi’, scan a QR code or tap a WhatsApp link from the bank’s official website/app. 

3. The bank verifies your registered mobile number 

Most banks allow WhatsApp banking only if your WhatsApp number matches the mobile number registered with your bank account. 

4. You receive a menu of services 

The chatbot may show options such as balance enquiry, mini statement, debit card services, loan details, branch locator and account-related help. 

5. Sensitive actions may need OTP or additional verification 

For higher-risk requests, banks may ask for OTP-based authentication or redirect you to mobile banking/net banking. 

6. You receive information instantly in chat 

The response is shared in the same WhatsApp conversation, making the process simple and quick. 

WhatsApp Business Platform supports verified branded senders, chatbots, rich media, interactive buttons, payment flows and agent handoff, which helps banks provide a more conversational service experience at scale. 

Features of WhatsApp Banking 

Here are the key features that make WhatsApp banking convenient for customers: 

Feature	What it means for users
Chat-based banking	You can access banking services through a WhatsApp conversation instead of navigating multiple screens.
Automated responses	Chatbots can answer common queries instantly, such as balance, mini statement or branch details.
24/7 availability	Automated services are usually available round the clock, even outside branch hours.
Verified business account	Banks use official WhatsApp Business accounts, helping customers identify genuine communication.
End-to-end encryption	WhatsApp messages are protected with encryption, and enterprise banking flows often use verified senders and consent-based templates. (Infobip)
Opt-in and opt-out control	You can choose to start or stop receiving WhatsApp banking communication as per the bank’s process.
No additional app required	You can use WhatsApp itself instead of downloading a separate app for basic services.

Why Choose WhatsApp Banking? 

WhatsApp banking is helpful because it makes everyday banking faster, simpler and more accessible. 

Key benefits include: 

• Convenience: You can check account details, service updates or product information without visiting a branch. 

• Familiar interface: Since many people already use WhatsApp daily, the learning curve is low. 

• Quick response: Common queries are answered through automated menus, reducing waiting time. 

• Easy access across banks: If you have accounts with multiple banks, you may be able to access each bank’s WhatsApp banking service from the same app. 

• Useful for basic banking: It works well for balance checks, mini statements, branch/ATM locator, card-related help and service requests. 

• Good for non-tech-savvy users: The chat format is easier than navigating a full banking app for simple tasks. 

• Available anytime: Many automated WhatsApp banking services work 24×7.  

Example 

Suppose you are travelling and want to know your last few transactions. Instead of opening net banking, remembering your login ID and entering multiple details, you can message your bank’s WhatsApp number and request a mini statement in a few taps. 

Banks Offering WhatsApp Banking in India 

Many leading banks in India offer WhatsApp banking. Below are commonly published WhatsApp banking numbers for major banks. Since banks may update numbers or service flows, always verify the number on the bank’s official website, mobile app or verified social handles before starting. 

Bank	WhatsApp banking number
State Bank of India (SBI)	90226 90226
HDFC Bank	70700 22222
ICICI Bank	86400 86400
Axis Bank	70361 65000
Canara Bank	90760 30001
Union Bank of India	96666 06060
Kotak Mahindra Bank	022 6600 6022

Safety note: Do not trust a WhatsApp banking number received from an unknown sender. Visit the bank’s official website or app and use only the number listed there. 

How to Register for WhatsApp Banking 

The registration process may differ slightly from bank to bank, but the general steps are simple. 

Step-by-step process 

1. Save your bank’s official WhatsApp banking number 

Use only the number available on the bank’s official website/app. 

2. Open WhatsApp 

Search for the saved contact. 

3. Send ‘Hi’ or ‘Hello’ 

Most banks activate the menu after you send a greeting. 

4. Choose your preferred language 

Some banks offer language options. 

5. Verify your identity, if asked 

The bank may check whether your WhatsApp number is linked to your bank account. 

6. Select the service you need 

Choose from options such as balance enquiry, mini statement, card help, loan details or branch locator. 

Important registration condition 

Your WhatsApp number should usually be the same as the mobile number registered with your bank account. If your number is not registered with the bank, you may not be able to access account-specific services. 

Fund Transfer via WhatsApp Banking 

Some users confuse WhatsApp banking with WhatsApp UPI payments. These are related to WhatsApp as a platform, but they are not exactly the same. 

WhatsApp Banking 

This is your bank’s chat-based service for account information, service requests and customer support. 

WhatsApp UPI Payments 

This allows eligible users to send and receive money through WhatsApp using UPI. 

Steps to send money using WhatsApp UPI 

1. Open the recipient’s WhatsApp chat. 

2. Tap the ₹ payment icon. 

3. Select your bank account. 

4. Complete UPI setup, if not already done. 

5. Enter the amount. 

6. Confirm the payment using your UPI PIN. 

Safety reminder 

Never share your UPI PIN, OTP, debit card PIN or net banking password on WhatsApp. A genuine bank will not ask for these details in chat. 

Services Available Through WhatsApp Banking 

Banks may offer different services depending on their internal systems, but common WhatsApp banking services include: 

• Account balance enquiry 

• Mini statement 

• Savings/current account updates 

• Fixed deposit interest rate information 

• Debit card information 

• Debit card blocking or card-related support 

• Credit card bill amount and due date 

• Outstanding credit card amount 

• Chequebook request 

• Chequebook status 

• Branch locator 

• ATM locator 

• FASTag services 

• Pre-approved loan offers 

• Personal loan or credit card application status 

• Loan account details 

• EMI-related updates 

• Product launch notifications 

• Service request tracking 

• KYC or profile update guidance 

• Customer support ticket creation 

• Wealth management information 

• Suspicious transaction alerts 

• Payment reminders and confirmations 

• Appointment booking or branch visit scheduling 

WhatsApp banking is often used for customer support, payment reminders, confirmations, onboarding, appointment booking, card transaction notifications, product/service promotions, suspicious activity alerts and OTP-based authentication flows. (Infobip) 

WhatsApp Banking vs Mobile Banking App 

WhatsApp banking is convenient, but it is usually designed for quick and limited banking tasks. A mobile banking app offers a wider and more secure environment for complete banking. 

Parameter	WhatsApp Banking	Mobile Banking App
Best for	Quick queries and service requests	Full-service digital banking
Access	Through WhatsApp chat	Through the bank’s official app
Login process	Usually registered mobile number + menu/OTP	Login PIN, password, biometrics or device binding
Services	Limited services like balance, mini statement, card help, branch locator	Fund transfer, investments, deposits, cards, loans, statements, profile management and more
Fund transfer	Usually limited or redirected to UPI/app	Available through IMPS, NEFT, RTGS, UPI, internal transfer, etc.
Ease of use	Very easy for basic tasks	Slightly more detailed but more complete
Security control	Safe for basic use when using verified bank number	More suitable for sensitive and high-value transactions
Internet required	Yes	Yes
Availability	Usually 24×7 for automated services	Usually 24×7, except scheduled maintenance

Which one should you use? 

Use WhatsApp banking for quick tasks like balance enquiry, mini statement, card support or branch locator. Use the mobile banking app or net banking for fund transfers, investments, loan repayment, statement downloads and sensitive account changes. 

Is WhatsApp Banking Safe? 

Yes, WhatsApp banking can be safe when you use your bank’s official and verified WhatsApp number. WhatsApp banking messages are generally sent from verified business accounts, and sensitive communication is supported by security measures such as opt-in consent, pre-approved templates and encryption.  

However, safety also depends on user behaviour. Fraudsters may create fake WhatsApp accounts, send phishing links or pretend to be bank representatives. 

Safety tips to follow 

• Use only the WhatsApp number listed on your bank’s official website or app. 

• Check for the verified business profile before interacting. 

• Never share OTP, UPI PIN, ATM PIN, CVV, card expiry date or net banking password. 

• Do not download APK files or apps sent through WhatsApp. 

• Avoid clicking suspicious links claiming ‘KYC update’, ‘account blocked’ or ‘reward points’. 

• Do not transfer money based on WhatsApp instructions from unknown contacts. 

• If something looks suspicious, call your bank’s official customer care number. 

• Report cyber fraud immediately on the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or the official cybercrime portal. 

When Should You Use WhatsApp Banking? 

WhatsApp banking is ideal when you need: 

• A quick balance check 

• Mini statement 

• Branch or ATM location 

• Card blocking guidance 

• Chequebook request 

• Loan or credit card application status 

• General product information 

• FASTag-related help 

• Customer support without waiting on a call 

It may not be ideal for: 

• Large fund transfers 

• Investment transactions 

• Detailed statement downloads 

• Updating sensitive profile information 

• Disputes that require detailed documentation 

• Any service where the bank redirects you to the official app, website or branch 

Final Thoughts 

WhatsApp banking brings basic banking services into an app that millions of people already use every day. It is fast, easy and useful for everyday account-related queries such as balance checks, mini statements, service requests and customer support. 

However, it should be used carefully. Always verify the bank’s official WhatsApp number, avoid sharing confidential details and use your bank’s mobile app or net banking for sensitive transactions. 

If you need a financing option that is just as simple and digital, you can apply for a personal loan online and get access to funds with minimal documentation, a 100% digital process and no pre-closure charges, subject to eligibility and lender terms. Download the personal loan app or visit the website to check your offer and apply in a few clicks. 

FAQs on WhatsApp Banking 

1. How do I register for WhatsApp banking? 

To register for WhatsApp banking, save your bank’s official WhatsApp banking number, open WhatsApp and send ‘Hi’ from your registered mobile number. You may then need to select your language, accept terms and choose a service from the menu. 

2. What are the features of WhatsApp banking? 

The main features of WhatsApp banking include chat-based service, automated menus, balance enquiry, mini statement, account updates, card support, branch/ATM locator, service requests, encryption, verified business profiles and user opt-in/opt-out control. 

3. Why is WhatsApp banking important? 

WhatsApp banking is important because it makes basic banking faster and easier. Customers can get quick responses for common queries without visiting a branch, calling customer care or logging into a separate banking app. 

4. Is WhatsApp safe for banking? 

WhatsApp banking is safe when you use your bank’s official verified WhatsApp number and avoid sharing confidential information. Never share OTPs, UPI PINs, ATM PINs, CVV, passwords or card details through WhatsApp. 

5. What is the Central Bank of India WhatsApp Banking number? 

The commonly published Central Bank of India WhatsApp banking number is 95552 44442. Since numbers can change, verify it on the Central Bank of India official website or app before using it. 

6. What is the Bank of India WhatsApp Banking number? 

The commonly published Bank of India WhatsApp banking number is 83760 06006. Before starting, confirm the number from Bank of India’s official website, app or branch communication. 

7. What is the UCO Bank WhatsApp Banking number? 

The commonly published UCO Bank WhatsApp banking number is 83340 01234. Always verify it from UCO Bank’s official website or customer service channels before using it. 

8. Is WhatsApp Banking available 24×7? 

Yes, most automated WhatsApp banking services are available 24×7. However, some services may depend on the bank’s systems, scheduled maintenance, OTP delivery or agent availability.