Opening a bank account

You will need to open a bank account if you don't already have one. You should open a bank account as soon as possible.

Opening a bank account is important when you are recognised as a refugee:

• To help manage your money
• To keep your money safe
• To enable you to receive payments. Benefit payments will usually be paid directly into your bank account. It is also the easiest way for employers to pay you when you get a job

There are a range of high street and online banks. Choose one that suits you best.

Many high street banks will require proof of address which many newly granted refugees don't have. The Refugee Council have a banking guide for refugees which explains how to use bank accounts in the UK.

Once your account is open, you will usually be issued with a debit card which can be used to pay for things in most shops. You can also arrange for income to be paid into your bank account and bills to be paid directly from your account using 'direct debit'.