Why does a lender need my bank account numbers?

I'm trying to qualify for a mortgage and I just need to understand this. OF COURSE I understand that they need to get a good picture of my financial situation, but my checking/savings accounts are not where my money is, so it doesn't matter a whole lot.
Why does a lender need my bank account numbers?
whether or not you have money in there now shouldn't matter. my sister had to do the same thing and when they were 2 mo late on a payment about a year ago they threatened to take whatever she had in there out and freeze her accounts so that every time she Had to cash a check the bank would keep and send the money to them till she was caught up. although some companies don't do this so ask!
Reply:They want to check for overdrafts and stuff like that.
Reply:Aside from overdrafts, average balances are also scrutinized.


If you are not self employed, and have Direct Deposit, it also substantiates your income against paycheck stubs and W-2 forms
Reply:If it doesn't matter, then just give it to them.
Reply:they are checking your history with the bank seeing when you opened your account so really how long the account has been opened checking to see what your average deposits are how many accounts you have with them to see how much of your business they have and to see if you have had any negative balances all of these items will help them decide how much of a loan risk you are and how much they will lend you- they have procedures too.
Reply:Maybe to verify that you have an account, to see the history of your accounts.
Reply:because your about to take their money
Reply:They want a complete picture of your financial health not just the part or accounts you want to share. For example they want to see the other accounts to see what your historical balances have been and if they sync up with your reported taxable income. Also to make sure you haven't bounced checks in the last six months, incurred negative balances or even to make sure you don't get hit man size deposits at random intervals that you cannot explain. But if you had that, hope you'd be smart enough to use your off shore accounts that are none of their business. Good luck!
Reply:They want to check your balances, also to see that you have a good history with the bank - no bounced checks, overdrawn accounts, etc.