New Basic Bank Accounts

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1 New Basic Bank Accounts A guide to what they are and how to open one

2 What is a basic bank account? These new accounts were introduced at the beginning of 2016 and are very similar to current accounts. The main differences are: They are open to a wider range of people There are no charges so they don t charge you a penalty if you don t have enough money in your account to cover payments like direct debits You can t get an overdraft They don t pay you interest on any money in your account pay your bills either by direct debit or standing order pay money directly into your bank check your balances over the counter, at a cash point or online get a debit card from most banks so you can make payments in shops and online safeguard your money in a basic bank account and this will help you manage your money charges may apply if you are abroad Who are these accounts for? How do they work? You can have your wages, salary, benefits or tax credits paid into your account have cheques paid in without any charges take out money over the counter or from a cash point if you have enough money in your account Anyone with a poor credit score. This may be due to problems such as previous debts, having an unauthorised overdraft, an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) or a debt relief order (DRO). Anyone who needs to change from their Post Office account due to

3 recent changes in receiving State benefits. Anyone on benefits and/ or a low income Anyone wanting to manage their money without paying bank fees Where can I get one? Most high street banks and building societies offer them. The UK debt charity Step Change s basic bank chart gives comprehensive information about them and their terms and conditions. ( See s/0/doc/basic_bank_accounts.pdf ) How do I apply? You can apply online or in branch. What do I need to apply? All banks require proof of address and ID and these will be explained in the leaflets and online. Most banks will help those who find it difficult meeting these conditions. Proof of ID would include: An up to date passport ; A current driving license; A letter showing you are entitled to benefits. Proof of address includes: A recent council tax bill; A recent letter about your benefits; A TV license. How much do they cost to open? These accounts are free to open and usually require 1 as a minimum deposit. What do I need to look out for? You may find that bank staff will direct you towards a current account instead of the basic account you asked for. To avoid this, quote the name as is given in bank literature throughout your in branch application. For example, the Co-Operative Bank s fee-free basic account is called the Cashminder account; Do not open a basic account

4 with a bank you have used or are currently using especially if you are in debt with them. Banks use a process called offsetting to reclaim any money you owe and will take the funds from your new account. You can t get the money back; Make sure your documents are accurate and up to date. What if I am turned down? Your application may have been unsuccessful because of a poor credit rating. However you don t need a good credit score to open a fee free basic bank account and you should remind your bank advisor of this. If you still have problems, ask the advisor to check bank policy, which should have it laid out in full. If that fails as well, ask to speak to management. If all your attempts get you nowhere, contact us at Citizens Advice or other organisations like Step Change or the Money Advice Service. Step Change debt charity: Money Advice Service: What can I do if I have been declared bankrupt? The Government s aim is that feefree basic bank accounts should be made available to everyone in financial difficulty but they are still a working on some aspects such as bankruptcy. If that is your situation, a credit union could prove a great alternative. Credit Unions have the same features as High Street banks, except that they are cooperative institutions. You need to become a member For more information on how to join, contact the Mutual Financial Services. ( ome).

5 Free, confidential advice. Whoever you are. We help people overcome their problems and campaign on big issues when their voices need to be heard. We value diversity, champion equality, and challenge discrimination and harassment. We re here for everyone. Citizens Advice Westminster 21a Conduit Place London - W2 1HS Telephone Helpline: Fax: westminstercab.org.uk Citizens Advice Westminster is the operating name of Westminster Citizens Advice Bureau Service Charity Registration Number Company limited by Guarantee: Registered Number England Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority: FRN