Frequently Asked Questions

You can open a checking account with Fifth Third Bank through several convenient methods:

1. Online: Visit our checking accounts page and follow the application process
2. In person: Visit any Fifth Third Bank branch with valid identification (government-issued photo ID) and proof of address
3. By phone: Call +442509318575 to speak with a representative who can assist you with the application

You'll need to provide your Social Security number, contact information, and make an initial deposit to fund your account.

Minimum balance requirements vary by account type:

• Fifth Third Momentum® Savings: No minimum balance requirement
• Fifth Third Relationship Savings: $500 minimum daily balance to avoid the monthly service charge
• Goal Setter Savings: No minimum balance requirement, but requires automatic transfers from a Fifth Third checking account

For specific details about our savings accounts, please visit our savings accounts page.

You can order checks for your Fifth Third Bank account through several methods:

• Online Banking: Log into your account, navigate to the "Services" section, and select "Order Checks"
• Mobile App: Access the services menu and select the check ordering option
• By Phone: Call customer service at +442509318575
• In Person: Visit any Fifth Third Bank branch

Standard processing time for check orders is 7-10 business days. Expedited shipping is available for an additional fee.

Fees vary by account type. Common fees may include:

• Monthly maintenance fee: Ranges from $0-$25, depending on the account type and whether minimum balance or other requirements are met
• Overdraft fee: $37 per item (maximum of 5 charges per day)
• Non-Fifth Third ATM fee: $2.75 per transaction (plus any fee charged by the ATM owner)
• Wire transfer fees: Vary for domestic and international transfers

Many of our accounts offer ways to waive the monthly maintenance fee, such as maintaining a minimum balance or setting up direct deposit. For a complete fee schedule, please refer to our Account Disclosures.

Setting up direct deposit is simple:

1. Obtain a direct deposit form from your employer's HR or payroll department, or download our Direct Deposit Authorization Form
2. Provide your account information, including:
   • Fifth Third Bank's routing number: 042000314
   • Your complete account number (found on your checks or in online banking)
   • Account type (checking or savings)
3. Submit the completed form to your employer or payment provider

Direct deposits typically take 1-2 pay cycles to begin. You can verify that your direct deposit is active by checking your account activity online or on your statement.

To enroll in Fifth Third Online Banking:

1. Visit our website and click on the "Enroll" or "Register" button
2. Enter your personal information, including:
   • Social Security Number or Tax ID
   • Account number or debit card number
   • Email address
3. Create a username and password
4. Set up security questions and answers
5. Verify your identity through a one-time verification code sent to your email or phone

Once enrolled, you'll have immediate access to view your accounts, make transfers, pay bills, and more.

To download and set up our mobile banking app:

1. Visit the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for "Fifth Third Mobile Banking"
2. Download and install the app
3. Open the app and select "Log In" if you're already enrolled in online banking, or "Enroll Now" if you're new to digital banking
4. Follow the prompts to set up your credentials
5. Enable biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition) if your device supports it

Our mobile app offers features such as account management, mobile check deposit, person-to-person payments, card controls, and more.

To deposit a check using our mobile app:

1. Log into the Fifth Third mobile app
2. Tap "Deposit" or "Mobile Deposit" in the menu
3. Select the account where you want to deposit the check
4. Enter the check amount
5. Take clear photos of the front and back of the endorsed check (ensure you've signed the back and written "For Mobile Deposit Only at Fifth Third Bank")
6. Review and submit your deposit

Mobile deposits are typically processed within 1-2 business days. Funds availability depends on your account history and the type of check deposited. Daily and monthly deposit limits may apply based on your account relationship.

If you've forgotten your login credentials:

• Forgotten Username:
  1. Go to the login page and click "Forgot Username"
  2. Provide your account number, Social Security Number, and date of birth
  3. Follow the verification steps to retrieve your username
• Forgotten Password:
  1. Go to the login page and click "Forgot Password"
  2. Enter your username
  3. Verify your identity through security questions or a one-time code
  4. Create and confirm a new password

If you continue to experience issues, please contact our customer service at +442509318575 for assistance.

Setting up bill pay through online banking is simple:

1. Log into Fifth Third Online Banking
2. Navigate to the "Bill Pay" section
3. Accept the terms and conditions if you're a first-time user
4. To add a payee:
   • Click "Add a Payee"
   • Enter the biller's information (name, account number, address)
   • Some billers may be available electronically through our database
5. To schedule a payment:
   • Select the payee
   • Enter the payment amount
   • Choose the payment date
   • Select the funding account
   • Review and confirm the payment

You can set up one-time payments or recurring payments for regular bills. Electronic payments typically process within 1-2 business days, while paper checks may take 5-7 business days to reach the payee.

You can apply for a personal loan through several convenient methods:

• Online: Visit our Personal Loans page and complete the application form
• In person: Schedule an appointment at your nearest Fifth Third branch
• By phone: Call +442509318575 to speak with a loan specialist

When applying, you'll need to provide:

• Personal identification information
• Employment and income details
• Information about your existing debts
• Requested loan amount and purpose

After submitting your application, you'll typically receive a decision within 1-2 business days. If approved, you can choose to have funds deposited directly into your Fifth Third account.

Credit score requirements vary by card type:

• Secured Credit Card: Designed for those with limited or challenged credit history (typically accessible with scores below 650)
• Cash Rewards Card: Generally requires a good credit score (670+)
• Travel Rewards Card: Typically requires very good to excellent credit (700+)
• Business Rewards Card: Usually requires good to excellent credit (680+)

Credit score is just one factor in our approval decision. We also consider your income, existing debt, relationship with Fifth Third Bank, and other factors. You can check your pre-qualification status without affecting your credit score through our online pre-qualification tool.

You have several options for making mortgage payments:

• Automatic Payments: Set up recurring payments from your Fifth Third checking or savings account
• Online Banking: Make one-time payments through Fifth Third Online Banking
• Mobile App: Pay through the Fifth Third mobile app
• By Phone: Call our mortgage service line at +442509318575
• By Mail: Send a check to the address on your mortgage statement
• In Person: Pay at any Fifth Third branch

Payments are due on the 1st of each month, with a grace period typically extending to the 15th. To avoid late fees, ensure your payment is received within this grace period. If you're experiencing difficulty making your mortgage payment, please contact us as soon as possible to discuss assistance options.

You can request a credit limit increase in several ways:

• Online: Log into online banking, navigate to your credit card account, and look for the "Request Credit Limit Increase" option
• Mobile App: Access your credit card details and select the credit limit increase option
• By Phone: Call the number on the back of your credit card to speak with a representative

When requesting an increase, be prepared to provide updated income information. Factors that influence approval include:

• Your payment history with Fifth Third Bank
• Length of your account relationship
• Recent credit inquiries and new accounts
• Current debt obligations

Some cardholders may receive automatic credit limit increases based on account performance and regular reviews of your credit profile. A credit limit increase request may result in a hard inquiry on your credit report.

To apply for a home equity loan or line of credit (HELOC):

1. Application:
   • Apply online through our home equity products page
   • Visit a branch to apply in person
   • Call +442509318575 to apply by phone
2. Documentation: You'll need to provide:
   • Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
   • Property information
   • Mortgage statements
   • Insurance documentation
3. Home Valuation: We'll arrange for a property appraisal or valuation
4. Underwriting: We review your application, credit history, income, and property value
5. Closing: If approved, you'll sign final documents to complete the process

The typical timeline from application to funding is 30-45 days. Home equity products offer competitive rates based on your home's equity (the difference between your home's value and your mortgage balance). You can typically borrow up to 80-85% of your home's value, minus your existing mortgage balance.

Fifth Third Bank offers a comprehensive range of investment services through Fifth Third Securities, including:

• Financial Planning: Personalized plans to help you meet your financial goals
• Investment Management: Professional management of your investment portfolio
• Retirement Planning: IRAs, 401(k) rollovers, and retirement income strategies
• College Savings: 529 plans and education funding options
• Self-Directed Investing: Online brokerage platform for independent investors
• Managed Account Programs: Professional portfolio management tailored to your goals
• Trust and Estate Services: Wealth transfer and legacy planning

Our investment professionals work with you to understand your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon to develop appropriate investment strategies. Visit our Investment Services page for more information or to schedule a consultation.

To open an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) with Fifth Third Bank:

1. Choose an IRA Type:
   • Traditional IRA: Offers potential tax-deductible contributions and tax-deferred growth
   • Roth IRA: Provides tax-free growth and qualified withdrawals, with income eligibility limitations
   • SEP IRA: Designed for self-employed individuals and small business owners
2. Opening Methods:
   • Schedule an appointment with a Financial Advisor at a branch
   • Call our investment services team at +442509318575
   • For certain IRA types, you may be able to apply online
3. Required Information:
   • Social Security Number
   • Government-issued photo ID
   • Employment information
   • Beneficiary information
   • Funding method (transfer, rollover, or new contribution)

Once your IRA is open, your Financial Advisor can help you select appropriate investments based on your retirement goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. For 2023, the contribution limit for IRAs is $6,500, with an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution allowed if you're 50 or older.

Rolling over your 401(k) to Fifth Third Bank involves these steps:

1. Consult with a Financial Advisor: Schedule a meeting to discuss your retirement goals and rollover options
2. Open a Rollover IRA: If you don't already have one, open a Rollover IRA account with Fifth Third Securities
3. Initiate the Rollover: Choose one of two methods:
   • Direct Rollover: Your 401(k) plan administrator transfers funds directly to your Fifth Third Rollover IRA (recommended method)
   • Indirect Rollover: You receive a distribution check from your 401(k) plan and must deposit it into your Rollover IRA within 60 days to avoid taxes and penalties
4. Complete Required Paperwork: Fill out forms from both your current 401(k) provider and Fifth Third Bank
5. Select Investments: Work with your Financial Advisor to choose appropriate investments for your rolled-over funds

Important considerations before rolling over:

• Compare fees and investment options between your 401(k) and IRA
• Understand potential tax implications
• Consider required minimum distribution (RMD) rules
• Review any special features of your 401(k), such as company stock or loan provisions

Our Financial Advisors can guide you through this process to ensure a smooth transition of your retirement assets.

Fifth Third Bank's investment management approach is built on these core principles:

• Goals-Based Planning: We align investment strategies with your specific financial goals, whether that's retirement, education funding, wealth preservation, or legacy planning
• Risk Management: We help you understand and manage risk through appropriate asset allocation and diversification
• Disciplined Process: Our investment selection follows a rigorous, research-driven methodology
• Ongoing Monitoring: We regularly review and adjust portfolios to respond to market changes and your evolving needs
• Tax Efficiency: We consider tax implications in investment strategies to help maximize after-tax returns

Our investment management services are delivered through several models to accommodate different investor preferences:

• Advisor-Guided: Work directly with a dedicated Financial Advisor who provides personalized recommendations
• Managed Accounts: Professional portfolio management with various levels of customization
• Self-Directed: Online brokerage platform for independent investors who prefer to manage their own portfolios

For more information about our investment philosophy and services, please visit our Investment Services page or schedule a consultation with a Financial Advisor.

Fifth Third Bank provides a variety of educational resources to help you make informed investment decisions:

• Financial Insights Blog: Articles covering investment strategies, market trends, and financial planning topics
• Retirement Planning Calculators: Interactive tools to help you estimate retirement needs and track progress toward your goals
• Investment Guides: Downloadable PDFs explaining investment concepts, asset classes, and portfolio construction
• Webinars: Online educational sessions covering various investment and financial planning topics
• Market Commentary: Regular updates on market conditions and economic trends from our investment team
• One-on-One Consultations: Personalized educational sessions with Financial Advisors
• Financial Wellness Programs: Comprehensive resources for improving overall financial health

These resources are available through our website, mobile app, and in-person at our branches. We believe that informed investors make better decisions, and we're committed to providing the education and guidance you need to achieve your financial goals.

If you suspect fraud on your account, take these immediate steps:

1. Contact Fifth Third Bank immediately:
   • Call our Fraud Prevention team at +442509318575 (available 24/7)
   • Visit a branch in person
2. Secure your accounts:
   • Change your online banking password
   • Update security questions and answers
   • Enable account alerts if not already active
3. Monitor your accounts: Check your transactions regularly for any additional unauthorized activity
4. Document everything: Keep notes about the fraudulent transactions, including dates, amounts, and communications with the bank
5. File a police report: For significant fraud cases, file a report with local law enforcement
6. Consider a credit freeze: Contact the major credit bureaus to place a freeze on your credit report if you suspect identity theft

Fifth Third Bank provides Zero Liability Protection for unauthorized transactions when reported promptly. Our fraud team will investigate the activity, close compromised accounts if necessary, issue new cards, and help restore your account security.

Fifth Third Bank employs multiple layers of security to protect your information:

• Encryption: We use industry-standard 256-bit encryption for all online and mobile banking sessions
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Login process requires multiple verification factors to confirm your identity
• Fraud Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of accounts for suspicious activity with real-time alerts
• Secure Mobile App: Biometric authentication options (fingerprint, facial recognition) and automatic session timeouts
• Firewalls and Intrusion Detection: Advanced systems to prevent unauthorized access to our networks
• Employee Training: Comprehensive security training for all staff who handle customer information
• Physical Security: Secure facilities with controlled access to protect physical documents and systems
• Data Minimization: We collect only necessary information and limit access to authorized personnel

We continually update our security measures to address emerging threats and comply with industry regulations. For more information about our security practices, please visit our Security Center.

Fifth Third Identity Alert® is our comprehensive identity protection service that helps safeguard your personal information and alerts you to potential identity theft. Key features include:

• Credit Monitoring: Daily monitoring of your credit report at all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion)
• Dark Web Monitoring: Scans the dark web for your personal information, including Social Security number, email addresses, and financial account numbers
• Identity Theft Alerts: Receive notifications about potential fraudulent use of your identity
• Credit Score Access: View and track your credit score monthly
• Identity Theft Insurance: Up to $1 million in coverage for eligible expenses related to identity theft recovery
• Restoration Services: Dedicated resolution specialists to help restore your identity if theft occurs

Fifth Third Identity Alert is complimentary for Fifth Third Preferred Checking customers and available for a monthly fee to other customers. You can enroll through online banking or by visiting a branch. For more information, visit our Identity Protection page.

Protect yourself from phishing attempts with these best practices:

• Verify Email Sources: Fifth Third will never ask for sensitive information like passwords, PINs, or full account numbers via email
• Be Wary of Urgent Requests: Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to prompt immediate action
• Check Email Addresses Carefully: Phishing emails often use addresses that look similar to legitimate ones but with slight variations
• Don't Click Suspicious Links: Hover over links to see where they actually lead before clicking
• Type URLs Directly: Instead of clicking links, manually type "53.com" in your browser or use our official mobile app
• Be Cautious with Attachments: Don't open attachments from unexpected emails, even if they appear to be from Fifth Third
• Verify by Phone: If you receive a suspicious communication, call us directly using the number on the back of your card or our official website
• Keep Software Updated: Maintain current versions of your operating system, browsers, and security software

If you receive a suspicious email claiming to be from Fifth Third Bank, please forward it to phishing@53.com and then delete it. If you believe you've responded to a phishing attempt, contact our fraud department immediately at +442509318575.

If your Fifth Third debit or credit card is lost or stolen, take these steps immediately:

1. Report it immediately:
   • Call +442509318575 (available 24/7)
   • Log into online banking or the mobile app and select the "Report Lost or Stolen Card" option
   • Visit a Fifth Third branch during business hours
2. Temporarily lock your card: If you think your card might be misplaced (not stolen), you can temporarily lock it through the mobile app or online banking while you search for it
3. Review recent transactions: Check your account for any unauthorized charges
4. Request a replacement card: After reporting your card lost or stolen, we'll automatically issue a replacement with a new card number
5. Update automatic payments: Once you receive your new card, update any recurring payments that were linked to your old card

Fifth Third Bank provides Zero Liability Protection for unauthorized transactions on lost or stolen cards when reported promptly. Replacement cards typically arrive within 7-10 business days, but expedited delivery is available for an additional fee.