Latest updates for changing Mobile Number in Bank Accounts. Step by step guide.
In today’s digital banking world, your mobile number is one of the most important details linked to your bank account. At State Bank of India (SBI), your registered mobile number ensures that you receive instant updates about your transactions, OTPs for secure logins, and alerts about any unusual activity.
Even though linking a mobile number is not a regulatory requirement, it is highly desirable for both security and convenience. Without it, customers may miss out on important alerts, resulting in poor service and even financial risks.
This blog will explain why your mobile number is important in SBI accounts, the rules for updating it, and the simple process you can follow whether you are in India or abroad.
Why Mobile Number Matters in SBI Accounts
Your registered mobile number is essential for:
- Receiving SMS alerts, OTPs, and updates on apps like YONO, SBI Quick, Internet Banking (INB),Whatsapp Banking and YONO Lite.
- Immediate communication in case of cheque returns, wrong credits, or suspicious transactions.
- Reducing unnecessary branch visits for basic queries such as balance checks or transaction status.
- Enhancing account security by helping you track unauthorized transactions instantly.
However, mobile numbers are also sensitive and prone to misuse if not handled carefully. Cybercriminals often try to exploit customers through:
- Sharing OTPs
- Screen-sharing apps
- Fake/unverified mobile applications
- Clicking unsolicited links
That’s why SBI has strict rules for registering or changing mobile numbers.
Objectives of SBI’s Mobile Number Policy
SBI has introduced clear guidelines to ensure mobile numbers are used safely and responsibly. The key objectives are:
- Prevent misuse – To stop criminals from linking one mobile number with multiple accounts for illegal activities.
- Customer security – To make sure only the actual account holder can update the number.
- Safe updates – To provide secure channels for customers to change their mobile numbers.
Key Rules for Changing Mobile Number
- Limit on CIFs linked to one mobile number
- A single mobile number can be linked to up to 5 CIFs (Customer Information Files).
- This includes both personal and non-personal CIFs (like joint accounts or minors’ accounts).
- Exceptions are allowed for non-personal CIFs linked under Master/Sub CIF arrangements.
- Customer’s personal presence is mandatory
- For resident Indian customers, you must visit the branch in person to register or update your mobile number.
- Requests are not accepted via email.
- You can update your mobile at your home branch or any SBI branch by showing a valid KYC document (OVD).
- Special cases
- If a customer cannot visit due to illness/old age, a branch official may visit them.
- For partnership accounts, signatures of all partners are needed.
- For company or institutional accounts, a board resolution is mandatory.
How to Change Mobile Number in SBI
You can change your mobile number in two ways – either through Internet Banking or by visiting a branch.
1. Internet Banking (INB) Method
Steps
- Login to SBI Internet Banking with your credentials.
- Go to Profile → My Profile and enter your Profile Password.
- Select Change Mobile Number (Domestic only).
- Enter your new mobile number twice.
- You’ll get two options: (a) Through ATM (IRATA process)
- Select “Approval through ATM”.
- Choose the account and debit card, then confirm details like expiry date, cardholder name, and PIN.
- A reference number will be generated.
- Visit an SBI ATM, swipe your card, and choose:
Services → Others → Internet Banking Request Approval. - Enter your reference number.
- Once approved, your mobile number will be updated.
- Select “Approval through Branch”.
- A request form with a reference number will be generated.
- Submit this signed form at the branch.
- The branch will verify and approve your request.
2. Changing Mobile Number at Branch
- Visit any SBI branch with your valid KYC proof.
- Fill in the mobile number update form.
- Branch will process the request and update your number after verification.
Rules for NRI Customers
If you are an NRI customer, SBI has different processes based on whether you use Internet Banking and have an email registered:
- With INB and registered email ID
- Request through INB, generate a form, and email the scanned signed form + KYC documents to your branch or Global NRI Centre, Ernakulam.
- With INB but no registered email ID
- Generate request via INB and send signed form + documents via courier/post.
- Without INB
- Fill the prescribed request form and send it along with attested KYC documents to the home branch or Global NRI Centre.
Documents required (attested by embassy/consulate/notary etc.):
- Passport copy
- VISA/Work Permit (if applicable)
- Overseas address proof
- Permanent address proof (India/abroad)
What is One Customer-one Mobile number rule?
Since February 2021, SBI follows a “One Customer – One Mobile Number” rule. This means:
- Mobile number is captured only at the CIF level, not account level.
- Temporary mobile numbers are no longer allowed.
This helps ensure better security and avoids confusion in records.
Final Thoughts
Your registered mobile number is more than just a contact detail – it is the backbone of secure digital banking. By keeping your number updated, you can:
- Get instant alerts on transactions
- Protect yourself from fraud
- Avoid unnecessary visits to the branch
- Enjoy smoother banking with SBI apps and services
If you haven’t updated your mobile number with SBI, make sure you do it today through Internet Banking or by visiting your nearest branch. It’s a simple step that ensures your money stays safe and accessible at all times.