Opening a Safe Bank Account

There are a number of different types of bank accounts available, for example:
current accounts, basic bank accounts, joint accounts, savings accounts and
many more. They all operate in different ways and it’s important that you have
control of and a good understanding of the different accounts in your name.
If you aren’t sure what accounts are in your name, please read more about how
to check your credit report here:

Credit Report Guide

To open a bank account, you will need to complete an application form, either
online, in a bank branch or in some circumstances over the phone. When
opening a bank account, you will need provide your personal information.

You will need some form of photo ID, like a driving licence or passport, and
proof of address, like a utility bill, tenancy agreement or council tax bill.
If your application is successful, you will receive confirmation either by post or
email, and your debit card and PIN number will be sent out separately in the
post.
If you are struggling to open a new bank account, it’s worth asking the bank
why they have turned down your application, and speak to Refuge for support.

You may still be able to open a bank account without photo ID. You can speak
to the bank about different forms of documentation that they might be able to
accept, like a birth certificate, benefits or immigration letters, and other
documents that show your name and date of birth. You may need to go into a
branch to have this discussion.

If you are struggling to open a new bank account speak to Refuge for support.

If you do not have proof of address and are experiencing housing difficulties or homelessness, you may be able to apply for HSBC’s ‘No Fixed Address’ account. To access this programme, you must be referred by one of HSBC’s partner charities (this includes Refuge). You can find more details about this here. 

You can reach out to Refuge for help – contact the 24hr National Domestic Abuse Helpline (Freephone) on 0808 2000 247.

You may be able to use an app-based bank account – these are digital only bank account options with no high street branches. They can be set up online quickly and easily. You will need to provide proof of identity and an address history and may also be required to record a short video of yourself for security purposes. 

It’s important that your phone and online accounts are safe before you make an application for an app based bank account – if you haven’t already, read more about how to Secure your Tech here. 

If you don’t have the standard proof of ID and proof of address, or if your devices are being monitored by someone that is harming you, an app-based bank may not be appropriate for you. 

If this is the case reach out to Refuge for support.

If you are turned down for a bank account, this may have a negative impact on your credit score. This is why it’s important to find out from the bank why your application was turned down.
It’s always good to check your credit report in detail before you make an application for a bank account or any financial product.

If you believe that someone has accessed your online financial accounts, or someone has opened an online financial account using your details, it is important to check your bank statements for any unknown purchases and check your credit report. Your credit report can help you to determine whether anyone has used your details to create debt in your name. See our guidance on Credit Reports and Fraud and Coerced Debt.