Basic bank accounts

All major banks and building societies operate Basic Bank Accounts and most let you use the Post Office to get your money.

The accounts are simple to use, and have the basic features of a current account. Many are available to people with poor credit history.

Why open a Basic Bank Account

From April 2008, if you rent your home from a private landlord and claim Housing Benefit, the way you receive your benefit will change.

If you make a new claim for Housing Benefit, or change address to a privately rented property, benefit will normally be paid to you rather than your landlord.

Cashing cheques can be difficult and expensive without a bank account.

You can arrange to have your Housing Benefit paid straight into your bank account.

You can take money out at cash machines with a cash card. This is usually free, but some machines make a charge.

You can withdraw money at the Post Office.

You can pay your bills by direct debit. Sometimes you can qualify for discounts if you pay this way.

How do I open an account?

Banks and building societies must be contacted direct to open an account. The table below shows the contact details of banks and building societies in the Bury area, and the names of their basic bank accounts.

The law says that banks have to check the identity and address of their new customers. This is to help stop criminal activities like money laundering.

The bank or building society will explain which documents they will accept as proof of your identity, although this may vary from one bank to another.

Examples of proof of your identification could include:

• Benefits Agency letter;
• Housing Benefit award letter;
• Tax Credit notification letter;
• Driving Licence;
• Passport or National Identity card.

Examples of proof of your address could include:

• Tenancy Agreement;
• Benefits Agency letter;
• recent utility bill;
• current Council Tax bill;
• Tax Credit notification letter.

Remember to explain that you want to open a Basic Bank Account, and take a copy of this information with you.

Bury Council staff are not qualified to give financial advice on which account is best for you. The information contained on this web page is for general guidance only. Please contact the banks and building societies direct for further advice and information.