Konto

Konto is a term used primarily in German to denote an account or ledger entry. In everyday language it most often refers to a bank account, but it also applies to user accounts for online services and to ledger accounts in bookkeeping. In compounds it appears in phrases such as Kontoeröffnung (opening an account), Kontoauszug (bank statement), Kontoüberziehung (overdraft), and Kreditkonto (credit account).

Etymology and usage context: The word is borrowed from Italian conto, meaning calculation or account, which in turn derives from Latin computus. In German, Konto has long been used for financial ledgers and modernized to cover digital and online accounts as well.

Banking usage: A Konto identifies the account holder and is linked to an account number. Banks may require identification and address verification to open an account. Typical banking operations include deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and payments, all tracked through the Konto. Common subtypes in German include Girokonto (checking/current account) and Sparkonto (savings account).

Digital service usage: For websites and apps, a Konto refers to a user account created to access services. Users create a Konto, set credentials, and manage security settings, privacy options, and connected devices. The concept emphasizes authentication and access control.

Accounting usage: In bookkeeping, a Konto is a ledger account used to classify and summarize transactions within double-entry accounting. Transactions are posted to Soll (debit) and Haben (credit) sides, and the Konto helps organize financial data for reporting.

Geographic scope: The term is standard in German-speaking countries—Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland—and appears in related loanwords in neighboring languages.