How to open a bank account if you're homeless

If you do not pass banking checks

You can be refused a basic bank account if:

you do not pass an ID check or immigration check
the bank suspects you of fraud or financial crime

You do not need to pass a credit check to get a basic bank account but you have to give permission for a 'soft search' of your credit file. This is to check your identity.

ID checks

Registering to vote could help you pass an identity check. There is a special form if you do not have a fixed or permanent address.

You can register to vote if you're a British, Irish or EU citizen living in the UK. Some Commonwealth citizens can also register.

Find out how to register to vote if you're homeless.

Immigration checks

Banks are not allowed to open accounts for some people who do not have to leave to remain or a valid visa.

The bank can check a Home Office list to see if you're affected by this law.

If you're refused a bank account because of your immigration status, you need to talk to a specialist immigration adviser.

Shelter cannot give immigration advice.

Citizens Advice can help you get specialist immigration advice.

You can search for a regulated immigration adviser on GOV.UK

Credit file checks

If you have had joint accounts or applied for credit with someone else in the past, for example, a former partner or flatmate you could still be financially linked.

You might need to put a correction note on your credit file or get a fraud marker removed before you apply for a new account.

A debt adviser could help. Get free regulated debt advice from:

Ask why your application has been refused

The bank normally has to give you a reason for refusing a basic bank account. They do not have to go into detail about their reason.

If the bank has not given you a reason in writing, you can:

copy our template into an email to the bank manager
download it to take to the bank or send as a letter

Letter template: Basic bank account refusal

Copy our template into an email to the bank.

You should ask the bank for the best email address to use.

Ask for a customer services email address if you're not given a staff member's email.

[Use the subject: Basic bank account application]

I came into your branch to ask about opening a basic bank account.

I was told I could not open an account. The staff member did not give a reason for this. Please email me with a reason. Alternatively, I can collect a letter from the bank.

Please send me a list of ID documents you can accept. And let me know if I can give any more information to support my application.

Under the FCA Principles for Business (FCA Handbook, PRIN 2.1) you must:

treat customers fairly
communicate with customers clearly
pay attention to the information needs of customers

You must also follow FCA guidance on the fair treatment of vulnerable customers.

Please respond as soon as possible. I look forward to your response.

[Include the following information if you want to. You do not have to give personal information. These are not conditions for a basic bank account.]

I believe I am at an extra disadvantage because of: