How to Set Up Bank Account Alerts: Complete Security Guide
Bank account alerts automatically inform you of certain account activities like transactions, balance changes, suspicious activity and account updates via text, email or app notification. Most alerts are customizable; you choose which ones to activate and set dollar thresholds that trigger notifications.
Digital banking alerts do more than notify you. They protect your money, prevent costly fees and keep you in control of your finances 24/7. Setting them up in Associated Bank Digital takes minutes. The protection lasts forever.
Why account alerts matter more than ever
Fraud happens fast
Scammers don't wait for you to check your balance. They strike quickly, counting on you to not notice until it's too late. Mobile alerts detect suspicious activity instantly, giving you the best chance to stop fraud and get your money back under federal law.
Bank impersonation scams alone generated 25,725 reports in 2022—up from just 2,231 in 2020. The median loss per victim? $1,000.
Overdraft fees add up
The average overdraft fee in 2025 was $26.77. Americans paid $12.1 billion in combined overdraft and insufficient funds fees in 2024. A simple low-balance alert can help you avoid being part of those statistics.
Only 11% of Americans paid overdraft fees in 2024. You don't want to be among them. Alerts give you time to transfer funds or adjust spending before fees hit.
Protection has value
Checking your balance manually works, but it's reactive. Alerts are proactive. They work while you sleep, travel or focus on other priorities.
Essential alerts every banking customer should use
1. Low balance alerts
Set a threshold that works for your budget—$100, $200 or whatever gives you time to act. You'll get a notice before your account runs low, helping you avoid overdraft fees.
Best for: Anyone who wants to avoid fees and stay on budget.
2. Direct deposit alerts
Know the exact moment your paycheck hits your account. This helps you time your bill payments perfectly and reduces money stress.
Best for: Employees who rely on regular paychecks to meet bill deadlines.
3. Large purchase alerts
Set a dollar amount that triggers an alert—$500, $1,000 or whatever seems unusual for your spending. You'll know immediately if someone makes unauthorized purchases.
Best for: Credit card users and anyone concerned about fraud.
4. ATM withdrawal notifications
Get alerted for any ATM transaction, especially large withdrawals. If you're not at an ATM but receive this alert, you'll know to act fast.
Best for: Debit card and frequent ATM users.
5. Profile change alerts
Receive notifications when someone changes your password, email address, phone number or other account details. Legitimate changes you'll expect—unexpected changes signal trouble.
Best for: Everyone. This is basic account security.
6. Payment due alerts
Never miss a bill payment again; these alerts remind you about upcoming automatic or manual payments you need to make.
Best for: Anyone juggling multiple bills and payment dates.
7. Transfer and peer-to-peer alerts
Get notified when money moves between your accounts or when you send/receive money through digital payment services.
Best for: Active users of digital payment apps and multiple accounts.
How to set up bank alerts in your app and online
Mobile app vs. online banking: Alert setup comparison
| Feature | Mobile App Setup | Online Banking Setup | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | 5-7 minutes | 7-10 minutes | Mobile app (faster) |
| Notification type | Push, text, email | Email, text primarily | Mobile app (more options) |
| When alerts arrive | Immediate (even in silent mode) | Within 1-5 minutes | Mobile app (faster delivery) |
| Customization options | All options available | All options available | Both equal |
| Best device type | Smartphone/tablet | Computer/laptop | Depends on your banking preference |
| Can pause alerts? | Yes (quiet-time settings) | Yes | Both equal |
| Works offline? | No (requires connection) | No (requires connection) | Both equal |
Recommendation: Set up alerts in both locations. Use mobile apps for real-time push notifications; use online banking for detailed configuration and backup email delivery.
Set up bank alerts in your mobile banking app
Time Required: 5–7 minutes
Tools Needed: Associated Bank Digital app, smartphone
Step 1: Open the Associated Bank Digital app and sign in with your username and password.
Step 2: Tap on More at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3: Tap on Alerts to view all alerts associated with your account(s).
Step 4: On the Alerts screen, tap on gear icon to review current alerts or set up a new one.
Step 5: Select the type of optional or automatic alert you want to set up for accounts, money movement, security or marketing preferences. You can even set thresholds for low balance or high-dollar purchase alerts.
Step 6: Review the alert delivery options, including email, your alerts inbox and push notifications.
Step 7: Tap Submit.
You can find more details on alert setup for the Associated Bank Digital mobile app here.
Set up alerts in online/desktop banking
Time Required: 7–10 minutes
Tools Needed: Computer or tablet, Associated Bank Digital username and password.
Step 1: Visit the Associated Bank Digital website and enter your username and password.
Step 2: Click on the Alerts icon on the upper right of the screen to view all alerts associated with your account(s).
Step 3: Click on Alert Preferences to review current alerts or set up a new one.
Step 4: On the Alerts screen, tap on gear icon to review current alerts or set up a new one.
Step 5: Select the type of optional or automatic alert you want to set up for accounts, money movement, security or marketing preferences. You can even set thresholds for low balance or high-dollar purchase alerts.
Step 6: Review the Global alert delivery settings, including email, your alerts inbox, push notifications and text/SMS.
Step 7: Tap Submit.
Changes take effect immediately. You can modify your bank account alerts anytime by returning to this section.
You can find more details on alert setup for Associated Bank Digital here.
Bank alert troubleshooting: What to do when alerts don't work
Problem: I'm not receiving alerts even though I set them up.
Solution:
Check that alerts are turned on (not paused in "Quiet Time" settings).
Verify your contact information is correct (phone number for texts, email address for emails).
Check spam/junk folders for email alerts.
Ensure your phone has push notification permission enabled for the banking app (Settings > Apps > Associated Bank Digital > Notifications).
Restart your phone and try again.
Contact Associated Bank Customer Care if alerts still don't arrive.
Problem: I'm getting too many alerts but don't want to disable my account.
Solution: Use the "Quiet Time" feature to pause non-security alerts during specific hours. Adjust dollar thresholds upward so only significant transactions trigger alerts. “Quiet Time” won’t turn off security alerts; they always come through.
Problem: I got an alert, but I can't verify if it's real.
Solution: Never click links in alert messages. Instead, log in to your Associated Bank Digital account directly through the official app or website. Check your transaction history. If you don't see the activity, it's likely a scam. Call the number on your debit card to verify with the bank directly.
Alert Delivery Options Explained
Push notifications pop up instantly on your phone when you have the mobile app installed. They work even when your phone is in silent mode for security alerts.
- Pros: Immediate, hard to miss, no additional charges.
- Cons: Only works when the app is installed.
Text messages are sent directly to your phone via SMS. They work on any phone, even basic models.
- Pros: Work on all phones and don't require an app.
- Cons: May incur carrier charges and can be delayed.
Email Alerts
Email alerts are delivered to your email address. These are good for detailed information and record-keeping.
- Pros: Detailed information, permanent record, no phone required.
- Cons: May go to spam; requires checking email regularly.
Recommendation: Use multiple methods for important alerts such as fraud detection. Choose push notifications as well as text or email for backup.
How to Use "Quiet Time": Pause Alerts Without Losing Security
You don't have to choose between convenience and protection. Associated Bank Digital's unique "Quiet Time" feature lets you pause routine alerts while keeping security alerts active 24/7.
What Quiet Time does:
- Pauses low balance alerts, payment reminders, promotional messages, routine transaction notifications.
- Won’t pause security alerts (fraud detection, account changes, unusual activity).
- Works during sleep hours, work meetings, vacations or family time—whatever you choose.
How to Set Up Quiet Time:
Step 1: Open your Associated Bank Digital app.
Step 2: Navigate to "Settings" > "Alerts."
Step 3: Select "Quiet Time" or "Do Not Disturb."
Step 4: Choose your hours (example: 10 p.m. – 7 a.m.)
Step 5: Select which alert types can override Quiet Time.
Step 6: Save settings.
Example of Quiet Time setup:
- Quiet Time hours: 10 p.m. – 7 a.m.
- Alerts allowed During Quiet Time: Fraud alerts, account changes, large purchases.
- Alerts paused: Low balance alerts, payment reminders, routine transactions.
When Quiet Time ends, paused alerts are delivered immediately as a summary.
How to spot fake bank alerts and protect your account
Why This Matters: Text message scams cost Americans $330 million annually. Fraudulent communications mimic legitimate bank alerts to steal login information, personal details and account access.
Red Flags: Signs of a Fake Bank Alert
| Red Flag | What It Looks Like | What Real Banks Do |
|---|---|---|
| Urgent language | "Act now to secure your account," or "Account will close in 24 hours." | Banks rarely use high-pressure language; they give you time to respond. |
| Suspicious links | The message includes a clickable link to "verify account" or "confirm identity." | Real Associated Bank alerts don't ask you to click links. Check your account independently. |
| Requests for personal Info | "Reply with your password," "Confirm your PIN" or "Provide your SSN." | Banks NEVER ask for passwords, PINs or full SSNs via text or email. |
| Generic greeting | "Dear Customer" or "Dear User" instead of your name. | Associated Bank uses your actual name; fraudulent communications use generic terms. |
| Unknown sender | Comes from an unfamiliar number or email address. | Real bank alerts come from official Associated Bank phone numbers and emails. |
| Spelling/grammar errors | Misspelled words or awkward phrasing. | Professional bank alerts are carefully written; fraudulent messages often contain typos. |
Verify through official channels
Step 1: Don't click the link.
Fraudulent communications create links that look official but redirect to fake websites designed to steal information. Never click alert links.
Step 2: Sign in directly on a trusted site.
Open your Associated Bank Digital app, or visit the official website independently. Use a bookmark or type the URL directly; don't click any alert links.
Step 3: Check your account history.
Look at your recent transactions. If you don't see the activity mentioned in the alert, it's definitely fraudulent.
Step 4: Call Associated Bank.
Use the phone number on your debit card or bank statement, not any number in the suspicious message. Ask if the alert is legitimate.
Step 5: Verify before acting.
If something feels wrong or suspicious, verify before taking any action. Real banking issues can always be verified through official channels.
What Associated Bank security alerts you should always expect.
Associated Bank Digital automatically sends security alerts in these instances:
- Someone attempts to access your account from a new device.
- Unusual account activity is detected.
- Your password has been changed.
- Your email address or phone number has been updated.
- Large or suspicious transactions occur.
You don't set these up; they're automatic. You can't turn them off (for your protection), but you can verify them by checking your account directly. Although the timing of these alerts depends on Associated Bank's fraud detection systems and may vary, we typically review critical transactions within minutes.
Advanced alert strategies: Maximize your financial security
Once you've set up basic alerts, refine your approach for your specific situation.
Customize thresholds for your spending pattern
Don't use generic or default settings; set them to those that actually fits your life.
If you typically keep $500 in checking, set low balance alerts at $200. This gives you a $300 buffer to transfer funds before you overdraw.
If your income varies, increase thresholds during slow months and decrease them during high-earning months.
If you use your debit card frequently, set large purchase alerts at $300-$400 instead of $1,000 to catch fraud quickly.
If you rarely use your account, set alerts at lower amounts ($75–$100) to catch unusual activity immediately.
Monitoring several types of accounts
Different accounts need different alert strategies.
| Account Type | Recommended Low Balance Alert | Recommended Purchase Alert | Best Alert Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary checking | $200–$300 | $500 | Push + Text |
| Savings account | Disable routine alerts | Disable routine alerts | Security only |
| Emergency fund | Disable low balance | $1,000+ | Push only |
| Credit card | N/A | $200 | Push + Email |
Account alerts help you avoid fees
Beyond fraud protection, alerts save money by preventing costly mistakes.
Overdraft prevention
Set low balance alerts at least $50. This buffer gives you time to transfer money from savings or adjust spending plans.
Bill payment reminders
Payment due alerts ensure you never miss deadlines, which could result in late fees or damage to your credit score.
Subscription monitoring
Large purchase alerts help you catch forgotten subscriptions or services you meant to cancel.
Know your alerts!
Spend some time getting to know the kinds of alerts your financial institution offers; different banks offer different types. However, those available through Associated Bank Digital have been developed to offer a high level of protection, convenience and peace of mind. Consider activating these alerts when you sign in next time:
- Balance alerts: Know how much you have to spend.
- Transaction notifications: Get up-to-the-minute alerts of deposits, transfers and payments.
- Quiet time: Sometimes you don’t want to be disturbed. You set times to “pause” notifications as well (although you’ll always receive security alerts).
Whether you want updates emailed to you or prefer text or push notifications, Associated Bank Digital makes it easy to watch your money. And setting up notifications and alerts can make your money management habits easier … even if they aren’t broken.
Start managing your financial security today
Account alerts transform your relationship with money from reactive to proactive. Instead of discovering problems after they happen, you prevent them before they start. Account alerts provide automatic protection against fraud and overdraft fees.
To activate essential alerts, sign in to your Associated Bank Digital mobile app or online banking account. Navigate to your alert settings and activate these essentials:
- Low balance alert (prevent overdraft fees)
- Large purchase alert (stop fraud immediately)
- Account change alert (know if someone accesses your account)
- Direct deposit alert (know when your paycheck arrives)
Your security benefits from the protection, and your wallet benefits from avoiding unnecessary fees.
Key takeaways
- Account alerts protect your money by notifying you of suspicious activity within seconds, giving you time to stop fraud and secure federal reimbursement.
- Low balance alerts prevent overdraft fees by warning you before your account runs low.
- Setup takes under 10 minutes but provides 24/7 protection while you work, sleep or travel.
- Multiple delivery options (push notifications, text, email) ensure you never miss critical security alerts.
- Customize thresholds for your lifestyle—set low balance alerts at $100, $200 or whatever matches your spending patterns.
- Fake bank alerts are a scam threat, so verify alerts by logging into your account directly instead of clicking message links.
How to Set Up Bank Account Alerts Frequently Asked Questions
How do I change my bank account alert settings on Associated Bank Digital?
Sign into Associated Bank Digital on your mobile app or online banking. Navigate to "Settings" > "Alerts." Select the account and alert type you want to modify. You can change dollar thresholds or delivery methods, or turn alerts off at any time. Save your changes; they take effect immediately.
Can I set different alerts for different accounts?
Yes. Each account (checking, saving or credit card) can have its own alert settings and thresholds. You might set a $100 low balance alert for your checking account and a $500 threshold for your credit card or turn off alerts on accounts you don't use frequently.
What's the difference between security alerts and account alerts?
Security alerts automatically monitor for fraud or suspicious activity. You don't set these up, and you can't turn them off. Account alerts are notifications you customize (low balance, payment reminders, large purchases). You control account alerts completely; security alerts always protect you in the background.
Will I be charged for text message alerts?
Associated Bank Digital doesn't charge for alert messages. However, your mobile phone carrier may apply standard text messaging rates depending on your plan. If you have unlimited texting, there's no additional charge. Email and push notification alerts are always free.
How quickly do bank account alerts arrive after activity happens?
Most routine alerts arrive within 1–5 minutes. Security alerts (fraud detection, account changes) are prioritized and typically arrive within seconds. Push notifications usually arrive fastest because they don't go through your phone carrier's network.
Can I temporarily pause bank account alerts without turning them off completely?
Yes, use the "Quiet Time" feature to pause non-security alerts during specific hours (sleep time, work, vacations). Security alerts always come through immediately, even during quiet time. When quiet time ends, paused alerts are delivered as a summary. You can modify quiet time anytime.
What should I do if I get an alert about an activity I don't recognize?
Contact Associated Bank immediately using the phone number on your debit card or bank statement; don't call any number in the alert message. Log in to your account directly to verify the activity. If you didn't authorize the transaction, report it to the bank right away. Federal Regulation E protects against unauthorized transactions when reported promptly.
Can I have alerts sent to multiple phone numbers or email addresses?
It depends on your account setup. Most often, alerts go to one primary phone number and one email address. Some accounts allow multiple delivery addresses in settings. To send alerts to a spouse or family member's phone, contact Associated Bank directly to add them as an authorized contact; however, be sure they have a legitimate need to access your account information.
Do bank account alerts work if my phone is off or out of service?
You won’t see push notifications if your phone is off or the app isn't running. Text messages may be delayed if you're out of a service area, but they will be delivered when service returns. Email alerts arrive regardless of your phone status. This is why using several delivery methods (text, email and push) is recommended for important alerts.
I set up alerts, but I'm still missing transactions. What's happening?
Check your Quiet Time settings; alerts may be paused. Make sure your account has your current and correct contact information, and that your phone has push notification permissions set up for the app. Check spam/junk folders for email alerts. If none of this helps, restart your phone, sign in to your account again and then contact Associated Bank support if problems persist.
For Informational/Educational Purposes Only: The opinions expressed may differ from other employees and departments of Associated Bank N.A., or any bank or affiliate. Opinions and strategies described may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any individual. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. (1513)