Problems can arise when trying to open a bank account, such as when a bank won’t accept the identification you provide. Here we explain your rights and how to use them.
What identification should I provide?
When you apply to open an account, a bank must by law check that you are who you say you are, so it will ask you for proof of ID.
The bank should tell you what ID you need to open an account, for example a passport. If you can’t provide any of the usual types of ID, the banking industry has said it will consider certain other documents, such as those opposite.
A bank does not have to accept these alternative types of ID, but if it won’t accept one you should ask the bank to explain why.
You can make a complaint to the bank if you are not happy with the way it deals with this.
If you are not satisfied with its response you have the right to complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
There are other forms of ID your bank may accept if you are…
Claiming benefit
Entitlement letter or Identity Confirmation issued by the government or a local authority.
in a care home, sheltered accommodation or refuge
Letter from a care home manager or warden of sheltered accommodation or refuge.
a homeless person
Letter from the warden of a homeless shelter or employer if you are in work.
on probation
Letter from probation officer or a hostel manager.
a prisoner
Letter from the prison governor .
an international student
Passport or European Economic Area National Identity Card and letter of acceptance or letter of introduction from a body on the Department for Education and Standards list.
an asylum seeker
A UK Border Agency application registration card.
a traveller
The local authority, which has to register travellers’ sites, may be able to verify an address for you.
Why is my financial history being checked?
A bank may need to check your record of borrowing and repaying money. This is known as a credit report and also shows what other accounts you have.
In some cases too many checks with credit reference agencies may damage your credit rating, so ask the bank whether it will be making a check as part of the application process.
Your bank account checklist: See what to consider when opening or switching an account.
Know your rights!
Your bank must give you the main details of how your account will work (the terms and conditions). But if you are unsure about any of them, ask your bank to explain further.
Find out more about how to use this guide
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