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Compare current accounts
Get to know current accounts and find one which works for you.
Updated August 23rd, 2019
If you don’t like your bank, maybe it’s time to switch. Big banks like HSBC, RBS and Natwest offer up to £175 just for switching. Or, maybe now is the time to try out an app-only bank? This guide explains everything for you.
Who can get a current account?
To be eligible to open a current account, you must be a legal UK resident, and at least sixteen years old. Some banks may stipulate that you must be eighteen if you don’t have parental approval. You may also need to be credit checked – this is because many current accounts will come with an overdraft that may be reduced if you have a poor credit history.
What types of current account are available?
There are a few different types of current account which may be worth considering depending on your circumstances. These include a standard current account, a packaged account which comes with extras such as travel insurance, a student account, graduate account or basic bank account.
Switching current accounts
The process is simple thanks to the Current Account Switch Service (CASS). Any banks signed up to CASS will switch over your account for you in seven-working-days.
All you have to do is open a new account, use your new banks switching service, and your old account will be closed. Your money, direct debits, standing orders and anything else will be switched over for you too. You can even switch if you’re overdrawn.
8 things to keep in mind when comparing accounts
Here are some key points to compare current accounts:
1. Look for the best perks
Some accounts might charge a joining fee (this is becoming more and more rare. You’re probably more likely to be offered a joining reward for your custom. Vouchers, cash, exclusive deals – either way, keep an eye out!)
2. Check the requirements
Some accounts may require you to pay in a certain amount each month. Not doing so could incur a penalty. If you don’t think you’ll be able to keep up with the payments, steer clear of these accounts.
3. Do you want savings interest?
You want to make sure your money is working as hard as possible. Comparing interest rates to find the most competitive deals is really important when choosing current accounts.
4. Overdraft facilities
These vary from bank to bank. It’s important to know how much you’ll be charged for dipping into your overdraft, or exceeding your overdraft limit.
5. Time to go digital?
You may have heard of Monzo, Starling, N26, Revolut, and others. This wave of digital banking apps and challenger banks has emerged in the UK over the past few years. Head to our digital banking section to compare the lot.
Ask an Expert
Can a non-UK resident who works in the UK open a current account online with you?
Hello Ewen,
Thank you for your comment.
Upon checking, yes, you can open a personal UK bank account as a non-resident, but normally you’ll be asked for proof of ID and residential address in the UK.
To open a personal UK bank account you need something to verify your current address and your identity:
-For ID, your passport will do, and any national ID card may help as well;
-For proof of ID and proof of address, a UK driving license (if applicable);
-For proof of address at least two documents no more than three months’ old showing your name and address, e.g. a utility bill and council tax bill, in your name, and sent to your residential address will suffice.
Furthermore, you may get in touch with the bank first to verify.
Should you wish to have real-time answers to your questions, try our chat box on the lower right corner of our page.
Regards,
Jhezelyn
Hi. I am due to get married soon and I am looking for a current account that pays a better rate of interest while we save in the short term.
Hello,
Thank you for your comment.
You may compare bank accounts on this page. Based on the table found on the page, Clydesdale B Current Account has a higher interest rate compared to the other three. However, you would want to compare other features too.
Before submitting an application, please ensure that eligibility criteria are met. Please make sure that you’ve read the relevant T&Cs or PDS of this account to help consider whether the product is right for you.
Should you wish to have real-time answers to your questions, try our chat box on the lower right corner of our page.
Regards,
Jhezelyn