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How do I open a bank or building society account?

 
If you don't have a bank or building society account you may want to open one.

The main types of bank or building society accounts are current accounts and basic accounts.

To open an account get in touch with the bank or building society you have chosen.

You can visit the branch in person or, in some cases, you can do it by phone.

You'll need to provide proof of who you are and where you live. The bank or building society will tell you which documents they accept. Typical things proofs of identity are:

  • a current passport
  • full current driving licence
  • a recent council tax or utility bill
  • a letter from a government department or a local authority confirming a right to state benefits such as Pension Credit, Child Tax Credits, Income Support, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit.
Tell the bank or building society that you need an account that money can be paid into directly.

If you want a basic bank account, ask for it by name.  You do not have to credit a minimum amount to this type of account each month and they do not have overdraft facilities so there is no danger of running up debts or charges.

For more information about opening a bank account visit the Money Made Clear website.

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