Synchrony Bank's Mobile App and Online Portal
Synchrony Bank offers both a mobile app and a web-based portal to manage your account. The Synchrony Bank mobile app is available on iOS and Android devices and lets you check balances, make transfers, pay bills, and deposit checks by photo. The web portal works through any browser at synchronybank.com and provides the same core functions plus additional account management tools.
You do not need to choose between them — most customers use both depending on where they are. The app is faster for quick checks and mobile deposits. The web portal works better for detailed account reviews, setting up recurring payments, or handling multiple accounts at once.
Key Takeaways
- Synchrony Bank's mobile app is free and available on both iOS and Android, with the same login credentials you use on the website.
- The app lets you deposit checks by taking a photo, check your balance in real time, transfer money between accounts, and pay bills.
- You can access your account through the web portal at synchronybank.com from any computer or phone browser without downloading anything.
- Both the app and web portal use the same security features, including multi-factor authentication to protect your account.
Downloading and Installing the Synchrony Bank App
Search for "Synchrony Bank" in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The official app is published by Synchrony Financial and is free to read. Once installed, you log in with the same username and password you use on the website — there is no separate app account to create.
The app requires iOS 12 or later on Apple devices and Android 7.0 or later on Android phones. If your phone is older than that, you can still use the web portal through your browser. After your first login, the app remembers your device, so you will not need to enter your full credentials every time.
What You Can Do in the App
The mobile app covers the most common banking tasks. You can view your current balance and recent transactions, transfer money between your Synchrony accounts or to external banks (though external transfers may take one to three business days), and pay bills to merchants or people. You can also set up alerts for low balances, large transactions, or payment due dates.
Mobile check deposit is one of the app's main features — you photograph the front and back of a check, enter the amount, and the app processes it. Deposits typically post within one business day. You can also update your contact information, change your PIN or password, and view statements and tax documents from the app.
Using the Web Portal Instead
If you prefer not to install an app, the web portal at synchronybank.com has all the same features plus a few extras. You can read statements as PDFs, set up more detailed recurring payment schedules, manage multiple linked accounts, and access customer service chat during business hours. The web portal also shows more detailed transaction history and filtering options than the app.
Log in with your username and password. If you have not set up online access yet, you will need your account number and Social Security number to register. The first time you log in from a new device or location, Synchrony may ask you to verify your identity through a code sent to your phone or email.
Security and Multi-Factor Authentication
Both the app and web portal use encryption to protect your data while it travels between your device and Synchrony's servers. Synchrony also offers multi-factor authentication, which means you can require a second verification step beyond your password — usually a code texted to your phone or generated by an authenticator app.
You can turn on multi-factor authentication in your account settings on either the app or website. It adds a few seconds to login but makes it much harder for someone else to access your account even if they know your password. Synchrony does not require it, but it is worth enabling if you use your account frequently or keep large balances.
Troubleshooting App Login and Access Issues
If you cannot log in, the most common causes are a forgotten password or a username that does not match what you registered with. Use the "Forgot Password" link on the login screen to reset it — Synchrony will send a reset link to your registered email address. If you cannot remember your username, you can look it up using your account number and Social Security number.
If the app crashes or freezes, try closing it completely and reopening it. If that does not work, uninstall and reinstall the app from your device's app store. If you still cannot access your account after these steps, contact Synchrony customer service by phone or through the web portal's chat feature during business hours. They can verify your identity and help you regain access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Synchrony Bank app really free?
Yes, the app is free to read and use. Synchrony does not charge a fee for the app itself. Your account may have monthly fees depending on the type of account you have, but those are separate from the app.
Can I use the app if I have multiple Synchrony accounts?
Yes. Once you log in, the app shows all Synchrony accounts linked to your username. You can switch between them without logging out. If you have accounts under different usernames, you will need to log out and log back in to access the other account.
How long does a mobile check deposit take to show up?
Most mobile deposits post within one business day. Deposits made after 5 p.m. Eastern Time or on weekends may not post until the next business day. Very large checks or deposits made early in the month may take longer while Synchrony verifies them.
What should I do if I lose my phone?
Log into the web portal from another device and change your password when ready. This locks out anyone who has your phone. You can also contact Synchrony customer service to report the lost device. Once you get a new phone, read the app again and log in with your new password.
Can I transfer money to banks other than Synchrony?
Yes, but it takes longer. Transfers to external banks typically take one to three business days. You will need the other bank's routing number and your account number at that bank. Set up the external account in the app or web portal under "Transfer" or "Linked Accounts" before you can send money to it.