Best bank account for someone in a temporary address

captainlongtoes

Hi everyone,

I work in social care and will be supporting someone to open a bank account as they have been advised to do so as Post Office accounts will be closing. They've never had a current account before, neither have they ever had bills in their name so no credit history. The person lives in temporary accommodation  - so there's no proofs of address available aside from maybe a letter from the local authority. 

I imagine a basic bank account would meet their needs but may also need a direct debit facility for when they move into a permanent accommodation and will need to pay utility bills. I'd heard that HSBC was good for people like my client, is this still the case and are there any other recommendations?

Thanks in advance!

elsien

They can get a benefit letter sent out to show proof of address, if they are claiming any benefits. No mobile phone contract at all?

It may be that they need the basic bank account for now to build up a history, then change it to a current account later. 

However you can still set up direct debits on the basic account; it’s the overdraft facility that’s not there. And I do know a few people in sheltered housing who only have a building society savings account and who pay everything in cash still.
Direct debits are easier and can be more cost effective, but people can and do still manage to pay all their bills without having a current account. 

captainlongtoes

No mobile contract either! I'm sure this person will pay for the bills at the post office but thought I'd see what options there would be available. Thank you so much!

PRAISETHESUN

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/banking/basic-bank-accounts/

Most, if not all basic accounts should fit the bill here - they offer a debit card and the ability to set up DDs/SOs just like a regular current account. They are available to pretty much anyone who can prove their identity and address. Most banks will have a large list of what they deem acceptable forms of proof for these, so I'd get an idea of what documents this person has and guide them towards a bank that will accept what they have.