Opening a safe bank account
Trying to change your security or privacy settings might alert an abuser. This may cause their behaviour to get worse. From a safe device you should:
- call 0808 2000 247, a free, 24 hour national domestic abuse helpline
- use live chat on the National Domestic Abuse Helpline website, Monday to Friday, 3pm to 10pm
How to open a new safe bank account
To open a new safe bank account you will need to fill out your personal details. This can be done either:
- online
- in branch
- over the phone
You will need:
- photo ID (driving licence or passport)
- proof of address (utility bill, tenancy agreement or council tax bill)
Talk to the bank if you don’t have access to the correct ID documents. There may be other things they can accept.
If your account application is approved, you will be sent a card and PIN number in the post.
If your application is denied you should:
- ask the bank why
- contact Refuge for support
Types of bank account
There are many different types of bank account, for example:
- current
- joint
- savingsIf you are not sure what you have in your name see our credit reports page for guidance.
Using a safe device
A safe device might be:
- the phone of a:
- trusted friend
- family member
- neighbour
- a computer in a:
- library
- school workplace
If you don’t have a proof of address
If you are going through housing difficulties or homelessness there are options that do not need address information for example, HSBC’s ‘No Fixed Address’ service. You need to be referred to use this service. Contact us for help with this.App-based banksIf your phone and online accounts are secure you may want to apply for an app-based bank account. These are digital only accounts with no high street branches.Setting one up is quick and easy. You will need:
- proof of ID
- an address history
- to record a short video of yourself (for security purposes)
Find out more information on how to Secure your Tech. Contact Refuge if you don’t have the information you need to open an account.
Check your credit score
It is important to check your credit report before you make an application for a bank account or financial product.
If you have a poor credit score your application may be turned down.
Your credit report can help you work out if someone has:
- accessed your online financial accounts
- used your details
- created a debt in your name
See our guidance on Credit Reports and Fraud and Coerced Debt.