Bank Account
When you move to a new country it can be difficult to understand and manage your money. There are many things to buy, apart from food and clothing; for example TV Licence, gas, electricity and other utilities. From your wage you will also have to pay tax to the Government as well as rent to a landlord and a local Council tax for the house or flat you live in.
One of the most important ways to manage your money is to open a bank account.
To open a bank account, you need to show:
- Proof of identity (ID) with your photo on.
- Proof of your address where you live.
Some banks ask for more than two pieces of ID. Take as much information with you as possible.
For Proof of identity your bank may ask for:
- Passport or National identity card.
- Residence permit or similar document issued by the Home Office which shows your right to reside in the UK.
- National driving licence.
For proof of address, your bank may ask for:
- Tenancy Agreement showing the address where you live.
- Gas / Electric bills.
- A letter from your employer in the UK confirming your UK address (and if you have pay slips it helps to show those too).
Don’t bring photocopies – banks want original documents, not photocopies.
Advice on Money:
If you need advice on debt issues, for example because you have not paid your council tax, or have other large bills contact HAMAOUS or the citizens advice bureau.
HAMAOUS
For advice on money, contact Southampton City Council: the Housing and Money, Advice Outreach Service (HAMAOUS)
You can telephone (023 8033 9206).
Or send an email outreach.advice@southampton.gov.uk.
Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) can also give you advice on money problems
3 Kings Park Road,
Southampton,
SO15 2AT.
Telephone: 023 8022 3659
The National Debtline also offers advice. They have a helpline that gives free and confidential advice.
National Debtline Helpline: 080 8808 4000
Monday – Friday 9am-9pm
Saturday 9.30am-1pm