OPEN BANK ACCOUNTS
One of the key prerequisites for settling in is opening a bank account. You will need a UK bank account to receive your pay. The bank will need a confirmation letter stating your employment at UHCW NHS Trust. Please send a request for this letter as early as possible to MedicalWorkforceTeam@uhcw.nhs.uk.
Choosing a bank account
There are many different types of bank accounts that are suited to different customer needs. It’s good to know exactly what you need the bank account for, before comparing, please consider:
- • Standard current accounts – the normal current account with all the standard features
- • Specialised current accounts – these are current accounts with benefits and extra features that typically come with a fee.
- • Basic bank accounts – a basic current account is an account with some limited features, directed at customers with poor or no credit history.
- • International/foreign currency accounts – an international bank account is intended for use in different countries.
- • Savings accounts – savings accounts let you save and gain interest on your money
- • ISAs - ISAs allow you to save a certain amount tax-free every year.
Depending on the bank you choose and the type of account you want to open, the bank may run a credit check to examine your financial history. If they accept your application, they’ll notify you and you’ll later receive your debit card and pin number in the post – normally in separate instalments. You will probably need to activate your card online or by phone before you can use it.
You can open a bank account either in person, by visiting the branch or phone or online.
Some of the most popular banks in the UK are; Barclays, Nationwide, HSBC, Halifax, Lloyds and NatWest. However, you must also consider how quickly you can open an account. Usually, they require the following documents for opening an account.
- • Personal information including your full name, nationality, contact details, date of birth, and national insurance number.
- • Proof of address, for example a recent utility bill or tenancy agreement or a council tax bill. You might also be required to show how long you’ve lived there. In your case, you can submit the letter to bank provided by UHCW.
- • Proof of identity, such as a passport or driving licence or (BRP)