Find and compare basic bank accounts

Our team of independent experts have selected the best Basic bank accounts, aimed at people who have no or adverse credit history.

Basic bank accounts were originally set up through a government scheme to help less well off families and those who have problems opening a normal bank current account. The scheme is aimed at giving everyone access to banking facilities.

Basic bank accounts allow you to pay in your wages, benefits, tax credits and state pension. They give you a cash card to withdraw your money and some offer standing orders and direct debits. Unlike normal bank accounts, they do not give you a cheque book or overdraft facility.

Basic bank accounts also appeal to people who are worried about overspending, as they do not allow you to go overdrawn. You can only spend the balance of your account; however, you still need to keep an eye on your funds to cover any standing orders or direct debits. If there is not enough money in your account to pay these, they will be rejected and you will be charged.

Prepaid - an alternate to traditional bank accounts

There is now an alternative to the bank account.  With certain Prepaid cards for everyday use, there is no need for a bank account. So no endless queues and form filling at the bank.

Certain prepaid account cards allow your wages to be paid onto your card and allow you to top up via BACS or with cash at a PayPoint or Post Office branch. Click here to find out which cards allow you to pay in your wages...

Some prepaid accounts also allow you to pay all your household bills online using their bill payment tools and keep a track of your budget and manage your expenses 24 hours a day.

Apply for a Prepaid card from the comfort of your own home.

Also, if you are new to the UK and are finding it difficult to open a bank account, a Prepaid card may be just what you need! Click to read more about opening a bank account without proof of address...