What do you need to open a bank account?

Opening a bank account with first direct is pretty straightforward - we'll just need a few things from you first.

To open a current account with first direct, you’ll need:

to meet the eligibility criteria of the account you want to open
proof of identity
proof of address
proof of income (in some cases).

Our 1st Account is our standard first direct current account. With our 1st Account, you can access and manage your money when you're on the move with our App.

We’re also on the other end of the phone, ready to help you apply or manage an existing current account you may have with us.

If you’re applying for a 1st Account with us, you’ll need:

to be 18 or over
to be a UK resident
to not have been declared bankrupt or registered for an Individual Voluntary Agreement in the last 6 years (or be in the process of doing so)
a telephone number
an email address.

At first direct, we also have joint accounts if you want to open a bank account with someone else.

What documents do you need to open a bank account?

You’ll need to provide proof of identity and proof of address to complete your application. You might also need to show proof of income, but this isn’t always necessary. Find out more about opening an account at first direct.

Here are some of the commonly accepted documents:

Proof of identity

passport
driver’s licence
EU identity card

Proof of address

council tax bill
mortgage statement
utility bill
telephone bill
tenancy agreement

Proof of income

payslips
bank statements
letter from a recognised employer
P60 (statement issued to UK taxpayers at the end of the tax year) or tax returns (for self-employed)

If you want to open a bank account at first direct, we’ll do a credit search as part of your application.

This is done using information from the 3 credit reference agencies:

TransUnion
Equifax
Experian

It's a good idea to check the information these agencies hold on you before you apply, to make sure it’s accurate and up to date.

Explore more

Switching current accounts

See how you can switch your current account using the Current Account Switch Service.

Switch to first direct

A bank account with benefits

Get familiar with the features and benefits of a first direct bank account.

Explore bank account features

How do overdrafts work?

Get to know the ins and outs of an overdraft to help you get the best value from your account.

Learn more about overdrafts

What do you need to open a bank account?

Account opening checklist

Who can open a bank account?