Introduction
A bank account is a safe place to keep your money. The money belongs to you.
The bank keeps your money safe and keeps a record of it. They send you updates to show how much you have.
Using a bank account
You need a bank account to:
- get benefits paid in
- get wages from a job
- receive money from other people
- pay bills, rent or subscriptions
There are different types of accounts, including:
- Basic bank account – you can pay bills or take out money out. You cannot spend more money than you have.
- Current account – like a basic account with extra features. May include a debit card or online banking to help you make payments.
- Passbook account – like a basic bank account but you have a book to record your money. You take the book to the bank to pay in or take out money.
- Savings account – helps you save money for the future. Not usually used for paying bills.
Support from banks
Banks should help you use your account. They can:
- give information in easy read or other formats
- accept different types of ID
- let you bank in person at a branch
- offer tools to help you sign documents
- give you options if you find PINs hard to remember
- provide accessible cash machines
You can also:
- bring someone you trust to appointments
- visit at quieter times for more support
Getting help with your account
Banks usually speak to the account holder. But you can get support if needed. Different options include:
- Joint account – you share an account with someone else, they can use the money too
- Third party mandate – someone helps you with your account, you still control the money
- Appointee – someone manages your benefits for you
- Deputy – someone chosen by the court to manage your money
- Power of Attorney – someone you choose to make decisions if you cannot in the future