Getting locked out of your Scotiabank account is frustrating – but don’t panic! Whether you forgot your username, password, or both, this guide will get you back in using Scotiabank’s official recovery methods. No jargon, just clear steps.
⚠️ Scotiabank will NEVER:
- Call/text asking for your full password
- Demand immediate money transfers to “unlock” your account
- Ask for your card PIN or security answers via email
🆘 First: Know the Difference (Username vs. Password)
Forgot This | What Happens | Recovery Method |
---|---|---|
Username | Can’t log in at all | Online recovery or call support |
Password | Know username but wrong password | Reset instantly online |
Both | Totally locked out | Recover username first, then password |
📱 Option 1: Recover Your Username (3 Ways)

Method A: Online Recovery (Fastest if you have account access)
- Go to Scotiabank Login Page
- Click “Forgot your Username?” below the login button
- Enter:
- Your card number (debit/credit) OR account number
- Your registered phone number
- Complete security verification:
- Receive SMS code → Enter it
- Answer 1-2 security questions (e.g., “First car model?”)
- View your username: Displayed on screen → Write it down!
Method B: Mobile App Recovery
- Open Scotiabank app → Tap “Sign On”
- Tap “Forgot Username”
- Follow same steps as online (card/account # + SMS verification)
Method C: Call Support (If online fails)
- Dial 1-800-4-SCOTIA (1-800-472-6842)
- Say: “I need to recover my online banking username”
- Verify your identity:
- Full name, address, date of birth
- Last 2 transactions (e.g., “$45 at Walmart on Tuesday”)
- Card/account number
- Agent will confirm your username by phone or mail it to your address
🔒 Option 2: Reset Your Password (3 Ways)
Method A: Online/App Reset (Immediate)
- Go to Scotiabank Login OR open app
- Click “Forgot your Password?”
- Enter:
- Your username (recovered earlier)
- Your card number (debit/credit)
- Verify via SMS/text code sent to your registered phone
- Create a new password:
- 8-16 characters
- Mix letters + numbers + symbols (e.g.,
Toronto$2024!
) - ❌ Avoid birthdays or “password123”
- Log in immediately with new password
Method B: Phone Support Reset
- Call 1-800-4-SCOTIA (1-800-472-6842)
- Request: “I need to reset my online banking password”
- Verify identity (same as username recovery)
- Agent will:
- Send a temporary password via SMS/text
- OR guide you to reset it over the phone
- Log in with temp password → change it immediately in “Profile Settings”
Method C: Branch Visit (For complex issues)
Bring:
- Government photo ID (Driver’s license/Passport)
- Scotiabank card (if available)
- Proof of address (utility bill < 90 days old)
What to say:
“I’m locked out of online banking. I need help recovering my username and resetting my password.”
→ Staff will verify you and resolve it in 10-15 minutes.
Find branches:
Scotiabank Branch Locator
🛠️ Troubleshooting: Common Problems & Fixes
Problem | Solution |
---|---|
“My phone number isn’t recognized” | Call support → Update contact info in-branch first |
“I can’t answer security questions” | Visit branch with ID → Reset questions |
No SMS code received | Check spam → Wait 5 min → Request new code → Use alternate contact method |
Account locked after 3 tries | Wait 24 hours → Try again OR call support |
App says ‘Invalid credentials’ | Uninstall app → Reinstall → Use “Forgot Password” in-app |
🔐 Preventing Future Lockouts
- Save credentials securely:
- Use Apple Keychain (iPhone) or Google Password Manager (Android)
- Avoid writing down passwords on paper
- Enable biometric login:
- In app settings → Turn on Face ID or Fingerprint
- Update contact info:
- Notify Scotiabank if you change phone/email (Online Form)
- Use password hints:
- Set reminders only you understand (e.g., “Coffee place 2024?” for
TimHortons$2024
)
- Set reminders only you understand (e.g., “Coffee place 2024?” for
💡 Password Tip: Change passwords every 6 months – especially if shared with other sites!
Can I use old passwords?
No. Scotiabank blocks previously used passwords.
What if I lost my card AND forgot username?
Call 1-800-472-6842 → Verify identity with SSN/SIN + ID questions → They’ll mail credentials.
Scotiabank says my device is blocked!
Clear browser cache OR uninstall/reinstall app → Use recovery steps above.
Can I recover without a phone number?
Yes, but slower:
Call support → Request mail verification (takes 3-5 days)
Visit branch for instant reset
Is there a recovery fee?
Never. Scotiabank doesn’t charge for username/password help.
Will this affect my credit score?
No. Account recovery isn’t reported to credit bureaus.
✅ You’re Back In!
Recovering Scotiabank login details is straightforward when you know the steps:
- Recover username → Online, app, or call support.
- Reset password → SMS verification is fastest.
- Stuck? → Visit a branch with ID.
🔒 Security Alert: If you suspect fraud (e.g., password changed without your action), call Scotiabank immediately at 1-800-472-6842 and freeze your cards.
Need help now?
📞 Scotiabank Support: 1-800-4-SCOTIA (1-800-472-6842)
🏦 Branch Locator: https://www.scotiabank.com/branches/en/