You are legally entitled to a basic bank account. You are not required to provide utility bills or have a fixed address.
You have the right to a basic bank account
- You do not need to provide utility bills.
- You do not need to have a fixed address.
Banks legally required to give a basic bank account
- Barclays UK
- The Co-operative Bank
- HSBC UK
- Lloyds Banking Group (including Halifax and Bank of Scotland brands)
- Nationwide Building Society
- NatWest Group (including RBS and Ulster Bank brands)
- Santander UK
- TSB
- Virgin Money (formerly Clydesdale & Yorkshire Bank)
What to do if you have problems
- Tell the bank the law changed in September 2016 and it is part of the EU Payment Accounts Directive.
- Banks must offer basic bank accounts (without overdrafts) to anyone living legally in the EU.
Exceptions
- People with criminal convictions for fraud cannot get a basic bank account.
Need help?
- You can use this template letter here to give to the bank. It has all the information you need.
If you are having difficulties, please contact the Friends, Families and Travellers helpline on 01273 234 777. We are open:
- Monday to Friday
- From 10.00am to 4.30pm
- Closed on Bank Holidays
Correct as of August 2024.
