Compare Basic Current Accounts
- Basic current accounts are 'no-frills' products that only provide everyday banking services with no monthly fee
- Use our quick and easy comparison tool to compare basic bank accounts available from high street banks and internet providers.
- Compare up-to-date information on account features to find your ideal account.
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Basic Bank Accounts FAQs
What is a basic bank account?
Basic bank accounts are intended for people with poor credit histories, which means they could struggle to be accepted for a standard current account. They are usually offered without the need for credit checks and can enable users to carry out basic banking functions.
These include receiving payments, withdrawing cash and making payments via direct debit. However, each product’s services can vary hugely, so it’s important to check the details of any basic bank account you are considering to ensure it offers you the services you require.
Who might need a basic bank account?
Well over a million people in the UK have no bank account at all and therefore have no access to banking services. This can mean they are unable to accept a job that pays a salary into a bank account or pay bills that require direct debits to be set up.
However, many banks offer basic bank accounts that can provide people with poor credit or those who would simply prefer not to take out a current account, with access to these services that have become fundamental to everyday life for most of us.
Can anyone open a basic bank account?
Banks make little or no money from customers who take out basic bank accounts as they offer no overdrafts. Therefore, they are less advertised to customers. Some banks will even limit access to their basic bank accounts to those who fail the credit check when applying for a current account. You may be able to open a basic bank account if you don’t have a poor credit history, but you will need to ask the bank first.
What services do basic bank accounts offer?
This varies from account to account but some of the services basic bank accounts commonly offer include:
- Accepting payments
- Setting up direct debits
- Access to a Visa debit card
- Buying items online
- Taking out cash from an ATM
- Access to mobile apps to help manage your money
Do these bank accounts charge fees?
Usually not, but in some cases you may incur fees for things like failed payments, using your card overseas, or you may be charged by a business to whom your payment fails. Check with the bank for details on the fees charged to basic bank account customers.
How can I apply for a basic bank account?
You will often be able to apply by going into a branch and asking to apply for a basic bank account. You may be asked to apply for a regular current account first, but some banks will allow you to apply for a basic account when you wish. You will usually be asked for a form of ID, such as a driving license or a passport, and you will also have to provide proof of address. There may also be other criteria for certain accounts, so it’s important to check before applying.
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