How to get a bank account with no credit checks in the UK

Getting a bank account isn’t always straightforward.  You might struggle to open a bank account online with bad credit, for example. Or, if you’ve just arrived in the UK and you have no credit history, you might also encounter difficulties getting a card.

In this article, we’ll cover how to get a bank account with no credit checks, looking at the types of solutions available and the situations in which you might want to explore them.

When you might need to get a bank account with no credit checks:

If you’re struggling to open a bank account or wondering, why can’t I get a credit card in the UK, a good alternative would be looking for a bank account with no credit checks.

The first step is to determine whether you have a low credit score. To do so, you can use these tools​​ Experian, ClearScore and MoneySupermarket. You can also learn more about understanding credit scores in our easy guide.  

Some types of bank accounts are off-limits to those who haven’t built up a positive credit score. This can include those who have received County Court Judgments, are using debt management products or have undergone bankruptcy proceedings.

You should also consider whether you have a credit history at all. New arrivals in the UK struggle to get a UK bank account as they’re required to have a UK-based credit history, for example.  

You may also want to open a bank account with no credit checks because you’re trying to avoid  “hard searches.” These are searches into your credit history that are undertaken typically when you’re trying to get a bank account with an overdraft or credit card; too many of them can harm your credit score.  

Can you get a bank account with no credit history? Or bad credit history?

So can you get a bank account when you have a poor credit history or no credit history at all? Is there such a thing as no credit check banking?

In short, yes! And in this section, we’re going to take a look at some of the alternative banking options in the UK. These will allow you to get the benefits of a bank account without needing a high credit score.

Basic bank accounts

If you’re looking for banks with no credit check to open accounts, take a look at which offer basic bank accounts. A more basic form of account will allow you to store your money, make payments, set up direct debits and use online banking. However, you won’t be able to access any form of credit. Typically you won’t get interest or cashback either.

Prepaid accounts

A prepaid account is one that’s funded in advance. That means you can add cash, transfer money or get your salary paid in. Because you’re not borrowing any money, this is an easy account to get with no credit checks and a great step if you’re wondering how to build your credit score.

Pockit’s prepaid card, for example, can be approved in 3 minutes using just a birth certificate (or typical ID) and proof of address. You’ll also get access to these benefits and more:

You'll also have access to amazing benefits like:

Cashback Rewards

• Get up to 15% cashback and discounts with selected high-street brands.
• Get 2.5% back on all other spending & Direct Debits on the first £100 spent.
• Save up to £264 on mobile, TV & broadband bills.

Purchase Protection

• Protect your eligible purchases of up to £1,000 in case of damage, theft or returns.
• Refund up to £1,500 of unused tickets if eligible.
• Extend warranty by 12 months for brown goods.

Credit builders

Credit builder accounts are designed to give you help with your credit score. By paying a regular amount each month, you can demonstrate your trustworthiness to lenders.

With Pockit’s Credit Builder, for example, all you have to do is make monthly payments of £9.99. These will be reported each month to the main UK Credit Reference Agencies. You’ll also get access to the benefits we outlined above plus, after three months, you’ll be able to apply for credit of up to £500 at 0% interest*.

To find out more about either of our free bank accounts with no credit check in the UK, get in touch. Our team is always on hand to answer any queries.

*Fixed fee based on borrowing amount and T's and C's apply

FAQs

Which banks don't do a hard credit check?

Most banks won’t do hard credit checks unless you’re applying for an overdraft or credit card. Meanwhile, credit builders, prepaid accounts and basic bank accounts will never require hard credit checks.

What is the quickest way to get a bank account with no credit checks?

To get a free bank account with no credit check, apply for a basic bank account or prepaid account. One of the easiest digital accounts to open in the UK without credit checks is Pockit. Yours could be approved in as little as three minutes.

Can I open a bank account in the UK if I am not a resident?

As a non-resident, you can open any bank account in the UK that doesn’t require a credit history in the same country. One great option to look into is Pockit’s prepaid account which can be set up quickly and comes with extra benefits.