Kontoführungs

Kontoführung refers to the ongoing administrative and operational management of a bank account by credit institutions. It covers recording of transactions, posting of deposits and withdrawals, interest accrual, fee assessment, and the preparation of periodic statements. It also includes reconciliation, risk monitoring, and security measures to protect access.

The term is commonly used with girokonten (current accounts) and savings accounts. Banks may provide a bundled service called Kontoführung or charge a separate Kontoführungsgebühr (monthly maintenance fee). Costs vary by account type, balance, and service level, and may be waived under conditions such as salary deposits or minimum balances.

Key functions include processing payments (direct debits, transfers, standing orders), card transactions, online and mobile banking, and the generation of tax documents or annual statements. Digitalization has shifted much of Kontoführung to automated systems, improving speed and transparency.

Responsibilities: The bank acts as custodian and processes transactions; the account holder must ensure correct data, monitor statements, authorize payments, keep security credentials, and report suspicious activity. Errors or unauthorized transactions should be addressed with the bank.

Regulatory aspects: Banks are subject to financial supervision by BaFin and to consumer protection rules. Price information must be disclosed; customers have rights to switch accounts and to basic or switching services under EU and national regulations.