Basic Bank Accounts in Wolverhampton

In this section you will find information on setting up a basic bank account in Wolverhampton. 

Good reasons to open a bank account:

• You can access your money 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Wages, pension and benefit payments can be paid directly into the account
• You still get paid your benefits on time if there is a postal delay
• You have the money available to you on the day it arrives in your account
• You will receive discounts on utility bills if you pay by direct debit
• You will receive free automated transactions (e.g. direct debits and standing orders)
• You will have a cash card for use at cash machines
• Many banks will give access to phone or internet banking

What is a basic bank account?

Basic bank accounts are easy to use accounts that have the basic features of a current account. You can withdraw cash at the counter and at cash machines, you may be able to set up direct debits, but you cannot have an overdraft or cheque book. If you have been unable to open a current account, perhaps due to a poor credit history, you maybe able to open a basic bank account. All the major banks and building societies operate them and most let you use the Post Office to get your money.

How do I open a basic bank account?

If you want to open a basic bank account at a bank or building society you should check with your local branch what you need as proof of your identity and address. This could be documents like a passport, driving licence, Council Tax bill or a recent utility bill (electric, gas or water bill). Remember to stress that you want to open a basic bank account. Do not be pressured into opening another account, which is unsuitable and may lead to future problems such as overdrafts.

How do I get my benefits paid into my bank account?

To have your housing benefit paid into your bank account phone 01902 551166 or visit Wolverhampton City Council’s website.

Where can I open a basic bank account in Wolverhampton?

Basic bank accounts are available from all high street banks. For further information please see pages 4 and 5 in our Basic Bank Accounts in Wolverhampton leaflet.

What identification do I need to open a basic bank account?

• Yorkshire Bank will accept private tenancy agreements from known landlords or a Housing Benefit entitlement letter depending on what identification is provided with it.
• Natwest will accept a Housing Benefit entitlement letter depending on what identification is provided with it.
• Barclays Bank will only accept a statement from recognised financial institutions.
• Lloyds TSB will accept tenancy agreement from a letting agency.
• HSBC will accept a letter from a person of responsibility for proof of address only.

For further information on what idenfication you need please see pages 6 and 7 in our Basic Bank Accounts in Wolverhampton leaflet.


For general advice or assistance please contact us.