Guides › Banking Scams and Fraud › Basic Bank Account: Who Can Get One
Basic Bank Account: Who Can Get One
A basic bank account works like a normal current account for wages, benefits and bills, with a debit card, but no overdraft. It is free to set up and use. It is usually for people who cannot get a standard account, for example because of bad credit or bankruptcy. You do not have to pass a credit check.
At a Glance
Your Rights
What the rules say, with a link to the official source for each.
Basic Bank Accounts
MoneyHelper
A basic bank account can receive wages, benefits and pensions, pay bills and comes with a debit card, but has no cheque book or overdraft. It is free to set up and use, though fees can apply for things like using your card abroad. It is normally for people who do not qualify for a standard current account, for example with a bad credit history, an IVA, a debt management plan, a DRO or bankruptcy. You usually need to be at least 16. source
ID and Refusals
MoneyHelper
If you do not have a passport or driving licence, ask whether the bank accepts a letter from the DWP, HMRC, your council or your GP. You do not have to pass a credit check, though the bank may use one to confirm your identity. If refused, ask why; you should be told unless fraud or money laundering is suspected. You can complain or apply to another bank. source
Time Limits to Know
Miss a deadline and you can lose a right. Check the dates on your own paperwork.
- 8 weeksBank answers a complaintThen the Financial Ombudsman
Steps to Take
Step 1 of 5
Ask the bank for a basic bank account by name.
Step 2 of 5
Gather any ID or official letters you have.
Step 3 of 5
Register to vote if you can, as some banks check it.
Step 4 of 5
If refused, ask for the reason.
Step 5 of 5
Complain, or try another bank or a credit union.
(Tap the numbers to reveal steps)
Where to Go If It Is Not Put Right
Your options, in order, and when each one applies.
The Bank
Ask for the reason and complain if unhappy.
Financial Ombudsman Service
Free, after 8 weeks or a final response.
Good to Know
Small things that make your complaint stronger.
Some banks have schemes for people with no fixed address.
Want Help?
If you would like one of our team to look at your problem, our initial case review is free. We cannot guarantee any outcome and we do not give legal advice.
Lead reviewer
Luke Marley
Founder and Lead Reviewer
Luke founded CPUK in 2026 after seeing how hard it is for ordinary people to get problems with companies put right. He oversees our guides and checks them against official sources.
Research by Katie Burt, Co-founder and Operations Lead (17 years in the care sector, including managing services for vulnerable adults), and the CPUK Research Team. Researched with AI-assisted research tools, then checked and corrected by our team.
Last checked: 13 October 2026. We are not paid by the companies we write about. Adverts never affect our guidance. Read our editorial policy.
Sources and official links
- moneyhelper.org.uk/en/everyday-money/banking/basic-bank-accounts Checked 13 October 2026
- financial-ombudsman.org.uk Checked 8 October 2026