Bank Account Branch Transfer: Moving to a New City? Now Shift Your Saving Account Online – Keep These 5 Key Points in Mind
If you're relocating to another city or even moving locally within the same city, there's good news—transferring your savings account to a new bank branch has become easier than ever, thanks to online services offered by banks like SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Kotak Mahindra Bank. But before initiating a branch change, here are 5 important things you must know to avoid disruptions in your banking services.
✅ 1. Can You Transfer Your Bank Account Online?
Yes, many major banks now allow online branch transfer of your savings account.
Here’s how it works:
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Log into your net banking or mobile banking portal.
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Fill out the branch transfer form online.
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Once the request is processed, your IFSC code will change based on the new branch.
⚠️ Caution: Since IFSC is tied to auto-debit mandates (like EMIs, SIPs, utility bills), make sure to update those services after the transfer to avoid failed payments.
🚫 2. When Can You NOT Transfer an Account?
Branch transfer is not allowed in the following situations:
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If KYC is incomplete (missing Aadhaar, PAN, etc.).
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If the account is inactive or frozen (no transactions for 2+ years).
In such cases, you’ll need to update your KYC or reactivate the account before requesting a transfer.
🔄 3. Update Auto-Payments & Linked Services
When your account moves to a new branch:
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Your old IFSC code becomes obsolete.
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All auto-linked payments like SIPs, EMIs, NACH mandates, or standing instructions must be updated.
Failing to do so can result in missed payments or penalties.
📑 4. Documents Required for Transfer
Even for online transfers, banks may ask for verification documents, especially if requested offline. Keep the following handy:
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ID Proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, or Driver’s License)
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Address Proof (utility bill, rental agreement, Aadhaar)
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Account Details (passbook or recent statement)
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Cheque Book (if issued previously)
Some banks may not ask for physical documents for online requests, but it’s good to keep soft copies ready.
🔐 5. What Happens to Bank Lockers?
Locker facilities do not transfer automatically with your savings account.
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If you have a locker in your current branch, you must close it and apply for a new one at the new branch.
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Locker availability is limited, so check with the new branch beforehand to avoid inconvenience.
📝 Quick Summary Table
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Online Transfer Available | Yes, via Net/Mobile Banking |
| IFSC Code Changes? | Yes – must update in all linked services |
| Documents Needed | ID, Address Proof, Account Info |
| Locker Transfers? | Not automatic – apply again |
| When Not Allowed | Inactive or KYC-incomplete accounts |
Switching cities or homes shouldn't disrupt your banking. With digital services, transferring your savings account is now just a few clicks away, but don’t forget to update your payment mandates, keep documents ready, and plan ahead for locker changes if needed. A little attention now can save a lot of hassle later.
