Banking is a critical but highly complex industry. It is a highly regulated environment, and banking applications must be developed in compliance with privacy and security standards of the region the bank operates. Credibility is an invaluable asset to any financial institution, so they can’t afford to let any bugs, even the most minor, slip into production and impact the user experience.

Understanding that challenge, in this article, we will list out the most common and essential test cases for banking applications and categorize them in groups. We also include a sample test case document for this page so that you can get started more quickly.

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To best write your test cases, you should always have a test case template, which we have prepared in PDF, Doc, and Excel sheet formats for you to download. Simply hit the button below and start noting down your test cases right away.

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Why Test Banking Applications?

Banking applications always put security at top priority. Rigorous testing ensures that confidential customer data is protected from potential security threats.
Comprehensive testing also means better system reliability, which is crucial in this field. Learn more about what comprehensive quality management platforms can do.
Ensures that the application adheres to industry regulations, such as Know Your Customer (KYC), Anti-Money Laundering (AML), and data protection laws.
Provides a seamless and error-free user experience
Mitigates potential risks, such as system failures, data breaches, or transaction errors, reducing the likelihood of financial and reputational damage to the bank.

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Read More: How To Find Bugs on Websites?

Important Test Cases For Banking Applications

1. Account Management Test Cases For Banking Apps

An account in a banking application is the repository for all of the critical information about the customer's financial and investment status. This is why it is usually placed in the top priority when developing the test plan and test strategy.

Some important test cases for this feature are:

Verify the ability to create a new account with valid information.
Verify the inability to create an account with incomplete or invalid information.
Test the process of updating account information (e.g., address, phone number).
Verify that account balances are updated accurately after transactions.
Test the account closure process and ensure all associated data is removed.
Check for account naming conventions and validation rules.
Test the ability to link or unlink accounts (e.g., joint accounts).
Verify that account statements are generated correctly.
Test account recovery options in case of forgotten credentials.
Check for account locking and unlocking functionality after failed login attempts.
Verify that account data remains confidential and is not accessible to unauthorized users.
Test for concurrent access to the same account from multiple devices.
Verify that account data is synchronized across multiple platforms (web, mobile, ATM).
Test the process of setting up account alerts and notifications.
Verify the ability to export account data in various formats (e.g., CSV, PDF).
Test the accuracy of interest calculations for savings accounts.
Confirm that accounts with different currencies are handled correctly.
Check for the ability to set account-specific preferences (e.g., language, notifications).
Verify that account histories are archived and retrievable.
Test the process of merging or closing duplicate accounts.

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2. Transaction Processing Test Cases For Banking Apps

top test cases for banking application

Test different types of transactions (e.g., deposits, withdrawals, transfers).
Verify that transactions are processed in real-time or within defined timeframes.
Test for transaction limits and restrictions on various account types.
Verify that transaction fees are accurately deducted.
Test the ability to cancel or reverse pending transactions.
Check for overdraft protection and notifications.
Verify that international transactions are handled appropriately (currency conversion, fees).
Test transactions during scheduled maintenance periods.
Verify that transaction references and receipts are generated accurately.
Test for duplicate transaction detection and prevention.
Verify the handling of transactions involving joint accounts.
Test the process of setting up recurring transactions (e.g., bill payments).
Check for the ability to designate transaction categories (e.g., groceries, entertainment).
Verify that transactions are reflected correctly in account statements.
Test transactions with offline banking options (e.g., check deposits at ATMs).
Verify the ability to dispute and investigate erroneous transactions.
Test the integration with third-party payment gateways.
Verify the handling of large transactions that may require additional authorization.
Test the processing of transactions involving foreign exchange rates.
Verify that transactions are time-stamped accurately for auditing purposes.

3. User Authentication and Security Test Cases For Banking Applications

100 security test cases for banking application

User authentication usually happens at the Login page and Registration page. They are more than just a “portal” to login - but rather an authentication system to prevent unauthorized access into the user’s account. Banking applications, and other applications in high-risk industries, take this process very seriously, and they usually employ several layers of authentication for added safety.

Here are some popular user authentication test cases for you to consider:

Test the login functionality with valid credentials.
Verify that incorrect login attempts result in appropriate error messages.
Test multi-factor authentication (MFA) methods (e.g., SMS, email, token).
Verify the account lockout mechanism after a specified number of failed login attempts.
Test password reset functionality and security questions.
Verify the expiration and automatic logout of idle sessions.
Test the ability to change account passwords.
Verify secure password storage and encryption.
Test the application's response to suspicious login activity (e.g., from different locations).
Verify that sensitive data (e.g., passwords, PINs) is masked or hidden.
Test the handling of lost or stolen devices for mobile banking.
Verify the security of biometric authentication (e.g., fingerprint, facial recognition).
Test the logout functionality and session termination.
Verify the effectiveness of security certificates for encrypted communication.
Test the behavior of the application in case of a known security vulnerability.
Verify the implementation of role-based access control for staff members.
Test for SQL injection and other common security vulnerabilities.
Verify that user data is not stored on the client-side.
Test the response to brute force attacks.
Verify that security patches and updates are applied promptly.

Read More: 100 Test Cases For Login Page

4. Mobile Banking Test Cases

Smartphones literally dominate the world with billions of users, and the convenience they offer simply can’t be ignored. Banking applications allow users to experience financial services that banks offer more easily, and the fintech industry is projected to become a trillion-dollar industry by 2030. Incorporating mobile testing into your banking testing strategy is a great way to increase test coverage and serve a growing user base.

Here are some important test cases for mobile banking:

Test the installation and setup of the mobile banking app.
Verify the compatibility with different mobile device types (iOS, Android).
Test the responsiveness of the app on various screen sizes and resolutions.
Verify that mobile check deposit functions correctly.
Test mobile bill payment and funds transfer.
Verify the accuracy of push notifications and alerts.
Test offline functionality, such as viewing account balances without an internet connection.
Verify the ability to toggle between multiple user accounts.
Test the mobile app's synchronization with the web-based banking platform.
Verify that the app is accessible to users with disabilities (ADA compliance).
Test the performance of the mobile app under low-network conditions.
Verify that biometric authentication (e.g., fingerprint, face ID) works securely.
Test mobile app updates and their impact on existing data.
Verify that the mobile app supports language preferences and localization.
Test mobile app-specific features like remote account deactivation.
Verify that mobile app data is protected against device theft or loss.
Test the mobile app's ability to generate and scan QR codes for transactions.
Verify the handling of interruptions (e.g., phone calls) during app use.
Test the mobile app's accessibility on both smartphones and tablets.
Verify the integration of mobile app analytics for performance monitoring.

5. Cross-platform Compatibility Test Cases For Banking Applications

By itself, mobile devices already come with incredibly diverse sets of device - OS - browser combinations that people can use to access your banking application. When we count computer devices into the mix, the number of platforms to test for compatibility grows exponentially. It is important to have cross-browser and cross-platform test cases for banking applications, such as:

Test the application on different web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, etc.).
Verify compatibility with various mobile devices (iOS and Android) and their versions.
Test on different operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux) for web-based platforms.
Verify the responsiveness and usability of the application on different screen sizes.
Test the application on various screen resolutions (e.g., HD, Full HD, 4K).
Verify compatibility with different input devices (mouse, touchpad, touchscreen).
Test on different network speeds and conditions (e.g., 3G, 4G, Wi-Fi, slow connections).
Verify compatibility with screen reader software for accessibility.
Test for compatibility with third-party plugins or extensions in web browsers.
Verify compatibility with different versions of Java (if applicable).
Test the application's performance on low-end and high-end hardware.
Verify compatibility with different email clients for transaction notifications.
Test the application's compatibility with various PDF readers for statements.
Verify that the application works seamlessly with different virtual private networks (VPNs).
Test compatibility with screen rotation on mobile devices.
Verify the application's compatibility with various firewall settings.
Test the application's behavior on devices with different default languages.
Verify that the application's UI elements adapt to the platform's design guidelines.
Test compatibility with different security software and antivirus programs.
Verify compatibility with various ad-blocking extensions or software.

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100 Test Cases For Banking Application (With Template + Complete Guide)