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Upskilling young people through educators and specialist charity partners

"I have been able to identify and build skills I would not have thought about. I have been able to use my learning to become a school ambassador and have won an award at an Enterprise Event".

Male, 15-16 years, secondary school, England

"The [resources] were easy to put together, there was a logical flow, and there was a massive range of activities. So, tutors can pick and choose, as long as it meets the learning objective of the lesson".

Head of PSHE - Secondary school, England (South East)

Connecting adults with work

"Nathan was homeless and had recently left prison. His Job Centre Work Coach, referral partner and Barclays' charity partner collaborated to help Nathan find employment. He was supported with CV and interview preparation, training courses as well as a voucher for interview clothes. Nathan settled in well to his new employment and was subsequently promoted".

Barclays LifeSkills Charity Partner

Find out more about the charities that Barclays LifeSkills works with, to help support adults and families who are facing barriers getting into work.

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LifeSkills | Developing work and life skills

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LifeSkills, created with Barclays, helps young people get the skills and experiences they need to enter the world of work.

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Economic abuse takes many forms, so how do you spot them? 

These are the 5 common signs of economic abuse. 

If you or anyone you know identifies with... | By NHS Credit Union | Facebook

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Economic abuse takes many forms, so how do you spot them? 

These are the 5 common signs of economic abuse. 

If you or anyone you know identifies with...

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How to Deposit Cash into an ATM: Step-by-Step Banking Guide 

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How to Deposit Cash into an ATM: Step-by-Step Banking Guide 

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How to Deposit Cash into an ATM: Step-by-Step Banking Guide | Money Instructor

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The Payment Exception Service allows you to collect benefit or pension payments without a bank account.

The service is only available if you cannot open a bank account.

How to get your money

You'll be sent one of the following:

a payment card

an email with a voucher code

a text message with a voucher code

You can collect your payment during the opening hours of:

any PayPoint outlet

any Post Office

You'll need to show your card or voucher code.

Find a PayPoint outlet near you.

Find a Post Office near you.

You must collect your payment within 90 days of it being sent to you. If you do not, the payment will expire and you'll have to ask the office that pays your benefit or pension to send it again.

How much money you can collect

You can collect the full amount you're owed in one visit. Each payment is a maximum of £100 but you can collect more than one payment at a time. To collect an amount over £100, use your card more than once during your visit or use more than one voucher code.

The outlet will need to have enough cash in their till.

Proving your identity

You'll need to show one original document as proof of your identity - copies will not be accepted.

For example you could use a:

valid UK photo or paper driving licence

current passport

current gas, electricity, water or landline phone bill (less than 3 months old)

council tax bill

tenancy agreement

letter from DWP or your council (less than 3 months old) confirming you get a benefit

Getting someone else to collect your money

If you want someone to collect your money for you, they'll need:

your payment card or voucher

your proof of identity

their proof of identity

If someone cannot manage their own affairs

You can apply to become an appointee for someone if they cannot manage their own affairs. You'll get a payment card to use on their behalf, and will be responsible for reporting any change of circumstance.

If you lose your payment card or it's damaged

Contact the Payment Exception Service.

Your card will be blocked and you'll be sent a new one.

You'll also be sent a voucher by email or text message to make sure you do not miss out on any payments.

If you need help

If you need help using the service or want to make a complaint, contact the Payment Exception Service.

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The Payment Exception Service is a way for people who do not have a bank account to collect benefit or pension payments. It replaces the Simple Payment service

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The Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF) provides 2 types of urgent grants to people in Wales as a last resort.

Individual Assistance Payments (IAPs) to help in some urgent situations, for example if you are trying to move house or stay in your current home, and

Emergency Assistance Payments (EAPs) to help meet expenses as a result of an emergency or disaster. They might be able to help pay towards heating your home in the event of extreme weather.

The DAF can include help towards certain electrical white goods, as well as household items such as beds, bedding, curtains and kitchen items.

Read more about the DAF here.
Short Term Benefit Advance
If you are waiting for your first benefit payment, you may be able to get an advance payment, also known as a short-term benefit advance.

You can ask for this if there is a delay in processing your benefit claim which isn't your fault, or you are waiting for an increase in your benefit payments due to a change in your circumstances. Find out more here.
Hardship Payments
If your benefits have stopped because of a sanction, you might be able to apply for hardship payments.

You will need to prove that you or your partner will have problems paying for essential living costs.

If you're homeless, pregnant, a single parent or vulnerable (perhaps because of an illness), you should be able to get a hardship payment straightaway.

You don't usually have to repay a hardship payment.

If your Universal Credit has been sanctioned, click . If your JSA has been sanctioned, click .
Budgeting Loan and Budgeting Advance
Budgeting loans are interest-free loans available only to people claiming certain income-related benefits.

There are two types of loan, depending on which benefits you are claiming:

budgeting loans- if you claim income support, jobseeker's allowance, employment and support allowance or pension credit

budgeting advances- if you claim universal credit.

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Emergency help with money - Shelter Cymru

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If you have nowhere to stay, don't panic. Get advice as soon as you can. The council's housing department should be your first stop. If you are homeless the council will have to provide you with some help and advice and might have to find you somewhere to stay.

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Support if you are homeless or about to become homeless 

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Support if you are homeless or about to become homeless 

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Find a postcode on Royal Mail’s postcode finder

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Support if you are homeless or about to become homeless | GOV.WALES

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If you are about to lose your home and become homeless, there is support to help you.

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What Is A Credit Score? | Credit Card Checks - HSBC UK

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What Is A Credit Score? | Credit Card Checks - HSBC UK

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There are 3 main credit reference agencies (CRAs) in the UK: Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. They securely hold data about your financial history - known as a credit report - and use it to generate a credit score.

Each agency has its own scoring system, so your credit score may vary slightly depending on which one you choose. However, you'll probably find that you fall into the same category across all of them.

Checking your credit report with a CRA is free and doesn't affect your credit score.

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What Is A Credit Score? | Credit Card Checks - HSBC UK

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Before a bank agrees to lend you money, they'll look at your finances as well as your 3-digit credit score. Find out what a good credit score is and how it's calculated.

# data[].attributes.headline
14 ways to improve your credit score (UK)

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14 ways to improve your credit score (UK)

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14 ways to improve your credit score (UK)

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Credit scores and credit reports explained (UK)

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When you want to get a new bank account, there are a number of things you need to think about.

You'll need to find out about:

Types of bank account

There are different types of bank account that you can use for different reasons. Here we tell you about the main types of bank account, and what you can use them for.

Current accounts

You can use a current account to help you manage your money day-to-day. This includes:

paying your bills

receiving money - such as your salary or benefits

keeping track of where your money is going.

Some current accounts can also earn you interest on the money you have in the account, although this is likely to be less than many savings accounts.

With a current account, you will get a cheque book which you can use to take money out. You may also get a debit card which you can use in shops and cash machines. The bank may let you have an overdraft and access to other kinds of credit. You will be allowed to set up direct debits and standing orders.

Some banks will let you cash a current account personal cheque or use your cash card at the Post Office, free of charge. Ask your local post office if you can do this free from your current account.

Post Office card accounts

You can use a Post Office card account to collect benefits, tax credits and state pensions. You can't pay any other money in.

You can only get your money out of a Post Office card account with a plastic card and a Personal Identification Number (PIN) at the Post Office. You can't go overdrawn on a Post Office card account and you can't use your card in any cash machines.

Savings accounts

You can use savings accounts to put away money that you'd like to save for the future, for emergencies or to buy expensive purchases like a new car or a holiday.

A savings account will give you interest on your money.

For more information about savings accounts, including a table comparing different types of savings accounts, visit the Money Advice Service website at: www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk.

Basic bank accounts

If you have a poor credit rating or a low income, you may have problems in opening a standard current account or savings account. You may also have problems if you already have a current account which is overdrawn. If you're in this situation, you may be able to open a basic bank account.

You can ask a bank or building society to open a basic bank account. The bank or building society must tell you whether it offers basic bank accounts. If it does, it must tell you the conditions you must meet to be able to open one.

You should still be able to get a basic account even if a credit check shows that you have:

For more information about credit reference checks and outstanding court judgments, see How lenders decide whether to give you credit.

If you have a basic bank account you usually:

don't have to have any money to put in the account to open it

don't have to pay any fees

can pay your wages, salary, benefits and tax credits directly into the account

can pay in cheques and cash

can pay bills by direct debit

can withdraw money from cash machines.

There are some disadvantages to having a basic bank account. These include:

you won't be able to have a cheque book or go overdrawn

if you've set up a direct debit and there's not enough money to pay for it, you might be charged for this

Not all basic bank accounts can be accessed at the Post Office. If you want to do this, check with the bank before you open a basic bank account.

If you have an overdraft or other debts on your current account and you open a basic bank account at the same bank, they may use the money in your new account to pay off the debts in your old one. If you get benefits, tax credit or state pension, you might want to think about opening your basic bank account at a different bank or building society.

You can get more information about basic bank accounts, including a table comparing the different types of basic bank account, on the Money Advice Service website at: www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk.

You can get versions of this information in large print, Braille or audio format from the FCA's Consumer Helpline on: 0800 111 6768.

Joint accounts

You can also open a bank account jointly with other people. For example, you might want to do this to manage household bills with someone you live with, or with your wife, husband or civil partner.

How to open an account

To open a bank account you usually have to fill in an application form. Often, you can do this in a branch or online, and sometimes you can also do this over the phone.

You will also have to provide proof of your identity including your full name, date of birth and address. You usually have to show the bank two separate documents that prove who you are, for example, your passport, and where you live, for example, a recent bill. If you don't have any of the documents that the bank wants, they should accept a letter from a responsible person who knows you, such as a GP, teacher, social worker or probation officer.

If you're bankrupt or have a record of fraud, you will not usually be allowed to open a bank account. Also, you may be refused permission to open a current account if you have a poor credit rating. However, if you're bankrupt or have a poor credit rating, you may be able to open a basic bank account.

For more information about bankruptcy in England and Wales, see Bankruptcy. For more information about bankruptcy in Scotland, see Help with debt.

A bank or building society can refuse to open an account for you. They don't have to give you a reason, and there's usually nothing you can do about it. A bank or building society isn't allowed to open an account for someone who needs leave under the Immigration Rules to enter or stay in the UK but who doesn't have it, for example, someone who has entered the UK illegally or who has 'overstayed' after their visa has run out. If you are in this category you also can't be added to someone else's account as a joint account holder or be a signatory or beneficiary in relation to any account. Your bank or building society will carry out status checks to ensure that you don't come into this category. There is more information about what you should do if your bank or building society refuses to open an account for you for this reason on the GOV.UK website at www.gov.uk.

Some groups of people such as ex-prisoners may find it particularly difficult to open accounts.

However a bank or building society isn't allowed to discriminate against you, for example, because of your race, sex, disability, religion or sexuality. If you are discriminated against, you may be able to complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service. Also, you may be able to take a case to court.

However, there are some circumstances when a bank or building society can discriminate against you, for example, they may not let you open some types of account unless you fall into a certain age-group.

For more information about discrimination, see our discrimination pages.

If you think you've been discriminated against by a bank or building society, you should get help from an experienced adviser, for example, at a Citizens Advice Bureau. To search for details of your nearest CAB, including those that can give advice by email, click on nearest CAB.

Terms and conditions

When you open an account with a bank or building society and use their services, you are entering into a contract with them.

The terms of the contract will change according to the bank or building society and the type of account or other service you use.

Before you open an account, you should be given information which will help you choose the account that suits you. The information should include the terms and conditions and the interest rates.

After you've opened an account, your bank or building society should keep you informed about changes to this information, so that you can make decisions on how to best use your account.

Terms and conditions for current, basic and instant access savings accounts

If you're opening a current, basic or instant access savings account, you should also be given additional information such as:

details of all charges

how the bank or building society will give you information about your account

any spending limits on your account

what to do if things go wrong.

The information should be given to you in a way which is easy for you to understand. Once you've opened your account, the bank or building society should tell you about any changes to terms and conditions at least two months before the changes are made.

If there are changes to the terms and conditions of your account, you can close the account at any time up to 60 days from the day you were told about the changes. You don't have to give notice or pay any extra charges.

Terms and conditions for savings accounts

If you're opening a savings account other than an instant savings account, you will be given less detailed information than for other types of account. It may be provided in a summary box which will help you compare different accounts from different banks and building societies.

You may have to be 18 or over to be able to open some accounts.

Changing your bank or building society

If you decide to change your bank or building society account, you should think about:

what charges will be involved, for example, for closing your account or cancelling standing orders

whether the services and facilities provided by the new bank or building society are better than those you currently get

the fact that there may be delays in making payments by standing order or direct debit. You should take this into account when you decide the date for closing your account

how long you will have to wait before you can use all the new bank or building society's services

You should open a new account before closing your old one and make sure you cancel any current standing orders or direct debits, or move these to your new account. Be sure to return any unused cheques or plastic cards (cut into pieces) to your old bank or building society.

If you are transferring a balance to your new account, make sure you have left enough money in the old account to cover any uncleared cheques.

If you owe the existing bank or building society any money and you wish to close the account, you may still be sued for the money you owe if you don't pay it when you close the account.

Both your old and new bank or building society have responsibilities towards you.

The level of service you should expect from your old bank or building society will depend on whether there is an arrangement in place between your old bank and the new one.

Where there is no arrangement, your bank or building society only has to provide a prompt and efficient service to help you close your account and it must return any money due to you. This includes any interest.

Where there is an arrangement in place, your bank or building society must transfer any account balance and make arrangements in respect of direct debits and standing orders. If there are mistakes or delays in the transfer process which lead to bank charges, you shouldn't have to pay for them.

Further help

For more information about banks and building societies and the services they offer, see Banks and building societies.

You may also find the following information helpful:

The Money Advice Service

The Money Advice Service is a free, independent service. Their website has lots of useful information about financial products such as bank accounts, including comparison tables for different savings accounts. Their Money Advice Line can answer general enquiries about financial products and services.

Their Money Advice Line is 0300 500 5000.

Their website is www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk.

Financial Conduct Authority

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is the body responsible for regulating banks and building societies.

They aren't able to get involved in individual complaints, recommend firms or give legal or financial advice. However, the FCA is interested in hearing about cases where a bank or building society appears to be in breach of its obligations. The FCA may, where appropriate, fine the bank or building society.

Their Consumer Helpline is 0800 111 6768.

Their website is www.fca.org.uk

The Financial Ombudsman Service

If you've gone through your bank or building society's complaints procedure and they haven't been able to help you, you can make a complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

You must give your bank or building society at least eight weeks to sort the problem out, unless they send you a letter of deadlock before the eight weeks is up. This is a letter telling you there is nothing more they can do to help you.

You must complain to the Ombudsman within six months of getting the letter of deadlock, or from the end of the eight week period if you don't get a letter of deadlock. Make sure you keep a record of the date when you first made your complaint to the bank.

Financial Ombudsman Service
Exchange Tower
London
E14 9SR

Consumer helpline: 0800 023 4567 (free for people phoning from a landline) or 0300 123 9123 (free for mobile-phone users who pay a monthly charge for calls to numbers starting 01 or 02) (Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm; Saturday from 9.00am to 1.00pm)
Email: complaint.info@financial-ombudsman.org.uk
Website: www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk

For more information about the Financial Ombudsman Service, see How to use an Ombudsman.

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When you want to get a new bank account, there are a number of things you need to think about. You'll need to find out about: There are different types of bank account that you can use for different reasons. Here we tell you about the main types of bank account, and what you can use them for.

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How to open a bank account online if you're homeless | housing advice | Shelter

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How to open a bank account online if you're homeless | housing advice | Shelter

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How to open a bank account online if you're homeless | housing advice | Shelter

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Free cards to use abroad: Debit | Credit | Smart travel | Multi-currency for travel (UK)

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Free cards to use abroad: Debit | Credit | Smart travel | Multi-currency for travel (UK)

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Free cards to use abroad: Debit | Credit | Smart travel | Multi-currency for travel (UK)

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What is a Post Office Travel Money Card?

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What is a prepaid currency card? | Travel Money | Post Office

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Prepaid currency cards are a handy, secure way to make purchases abroad and manage your holiday budget. This guide explains how they work and how to use them.

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What Is A Credit Score and How Does It Work?

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Heard about credit scores, but now sure how they work? Find out what a credit score is, how it’s determined and how it can affect your ability to borrow.

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Could you see the signs of financial abuse?

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Could you see the signs of financial abuse?

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Could you spot the signs of financial abuse? 🚩  In this week’s chat, @Kia and Katie talk about practical steps to take if you, or a family member, friend or colleague may be in a financially toxic relationship. Link in bio: #ALittleBitRicher 🎧  #redflags #toxicrelationship #financialabuse #economicabuse

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Financial abuse: spotting the signs and leaving safely

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Financial abuse: spotting the signs and leaving safely

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Financial abuse is a form of domestic abuse and is a way of having power over you. It involves someone else controlling your spending or access to cash, assets and finances. This can leave you feeling isolated, lacking in confidence and trapped.

Sometimes (but not always) financial abuse will be recognised by the police as coercive or controlling behaviour, which is also a criminal offence.

You do not have to be living with the person for the coercive or controlling behaviour offence to apply. Financial abuse can continue, or even start, after separation.

Financial abuse can take different forms and can happen to anyone of any age. Abusers can be partners, ex-partners, family members or others, such as carers.

Financial abuse is often part of wider economic abuse.

Economic abuse can include:

stopping you from going to work, college or university,

causing you to lose out on benefits by not letting you go to appointments at the Jobcentre or apply for jobs, and

controlling your access to essential things, such as food, clothing or transport.

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Financial abuse: spotting the signs and leaving safely

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If your partner, family member, carer or anybody else is controlling your financial affairs, then this is financial abuse. This guide explains the help and support that is available.

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To access the No Fixed Address programme, you must be experiencing homelessness or housing difficulties and receiving support from a registered charity or organisation. To find out if your local charity is registered, please reach out to them directly.

At the appropriate time, a caseworker from the charity will contact your local participating HSBC UK branch to arrange an appointment to open an account.

Once the appointment is completed and your account has been opened, any correspondence from HSBC UK (including your debit card and PIN) will be sent to the address used to open the account.

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No Fixed Address Bank Account | Homelessness - HSBC UK

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We're working with charities to help the homeless and customers with no fixed address open an HSBC bank account.

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Find out how to pay in cheques on the Lloyds Bank Mobile Banking app. Deposit cheques through the comfort of your phone.

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How do I put money into my bank account?

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How do I put money into my bank account?

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Find out how to put cash into a bank account. Pay money online, in branch or by phone. Whether you’re paying into your own account, or someone else’s.

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There is an example above, but there are plenty of others available!

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Basic Bank Account | Current Accounts | The Co-operative Bank

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With Cashminder, our basic bank account, you can have your income paid in, expenses paid out and manage it all online, in branch or over the phone.

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Social Media Fraud | How You Can Protect Yourself

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Social Media Fraud | How You Can Protect Yourself

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Social Media Fraud | How You Can Protect Yourself

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Lloyds Bank helps to make your online banking as safe as possible by making you aware of the different threats that exist and what you can do to prevent them.

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Let us know if you think you’ve been scammed

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Let us know if you think you’ve been scammed

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You should contact us right away if you think you’ve been a victim of fraud. We can then guide you on what to do next.

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Think you’ve been a victim? How to report fraud or a scam

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Think you’ve been a victim? How to report fraud or a scam

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How to get In touch with us if you think you may have paid a scammer, or you’ve seen suspicious activity on your account.

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If you’ve been the victim of fraud, you can find out how to report fraud on your personal or business bank account and credit cards here, as well as extra security information.

# data[].attributes.headline
Understanding Different Types of Bank Accounts

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Understanding Different Types of Bank Accounts

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Understanding Different Types of Bank Accounts | Beginners Guide | Money Instructor

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The Different Types of Bank Accounts Explained!

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The Different Types of Bank Accounts Explained!

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The Different Types of Bank Accounts Explained!

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Apple Pay lets you make purchases securely, easily and privately in thousands of shops, in popular apps, and on the web using Safari.

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What is a Savings Account? | Money Instructor

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Savings account

Fixed rate bonds

Child savings accounts

Regular savings accounts

Cash ISAs

High interest savings accounts

Account regular saver

Cash management account

Money market accounts

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More than 22,500 people had their social media or email accounts hacked last year, new data shows.

Sun seekers looking to book their summer getaway are being warned to look out for fraudulent deals, as new data released today shows victims lost a staggering £12.3 million to holiday fraud last year.

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National Fraud & Cyber Crime Reporting Centre

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Who Should You Report Fraud To In The UK? (not just the bank)

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Samsung Pay | What Is It & How To Use It | Samsung UK

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Turn your phone into your wallet with Samsung Pay. Find out how to set up & use Samsung Pay to shop contactless using your Galaxy device at Samsung UK.

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First Card

Use if you've never had a CitizenCard

You will need to use an online check that will validate your original photo ID or your eVisa details, or provide a suitable referee, who is a professional person that needs to confirm your identity.

Standard Application£18

Process Speed: up to 21 days

Delivery: Royal Mail 2nd Class (within 2-3 working days)

Urgent Application£35

Process Speed: 1-2 working days

Delivery: Royal Mail 1st Class (aimed for next-day; express available)

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Why do you need an ID?

The information provided on an identification card provides the proof
for licencees, retailers and officials to confirm your unique identity.

Find out how CitizenCard helped a few young people
access services and venues that require proof of age and ID.

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CitizenCard - UK Photo ID card and Proof Of Age

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Get your national photo ID and proof of age card - apply online for a UK ID card today. Trusted identity cards since 1999 bear Home Office and police-approved PASS hologram. Our paperless system lets you manage your application fully online.

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Abbreviations on Bank Statement Meaning | Barclays

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While managing your money, you may see some terms you’re not familiar with. Learn the meaning of some common banking and borrowing terms here.

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Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF): Eligibility | GOV.WALES

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The Discretionary Assistance Fund provides 2 types of grant that you don’t need to pay back.

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To open a bank account you will need:

Proof of ID:

Your passport

A full or provisional UK driving licence (you can often use this to prove both your identity and address)

Proof of Address

A recent utility bill (This can include a phone bill)

A full or provisional UK driving licence.

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Pay attention to the correct URL - A banking URL must always start with https (if it doesn't it could potentially be a scam or fraud)

Use a secure Password (Numbers, letters and icons)

Set a transfer limit

Use Face ID to set up online banking

Do not share any personal details via social media, in-person etc.

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Keeping safe from cybercrime | Barclays LifeSkills

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A virtual session giving tips and guidance on becoming more fraud aware and cautious online

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Our range of TSB bank accounts offer something for everyone. Find the bank account that suits you and open an account online today.

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Join over 8 million people with a Monzo account. See, save, and spend your money with Monzo.

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We can run workshops for young people on any of the topic areas covered in our resources.

In the one-to-one workshops we are able to go into more depth on an issue, providing guidance based on the individual's needs.

For more information contact Bethan Wilson, gettingready@childreninwales.org.uk

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What is a Chip and PIN machine?

Chip and PIN machines are a debit and credit card payment system that process financial transactions.

These devices are able to process a payment or transaction in a swift and secure manner.

How does Chip and PIN work?

Most UK businesses use Chip and PIN technology because of the added security and convenience. The Chip and PIN payment system is quite a straightforward procedure as we will demonstrate in our step-by-step guide.

The card holder's transaction can be completed in three easy steps:

Insert card - when a customer is ready to make a payment, direct them to insert their debit or credit card into your card terminal

Enter secure PIN - once the total appears on the display, your customer will be prompted to enter their unique four-digit PIN (Personal Information Number) using the keypad. This PIN is the same number that is stored on the microchip of their card

Bank approval - once the correct PIN has been verified by the device, payment will be authorised and a receipt will be processed as proof of payment

Your customer's payment should reflect in your business account within three to five working days.

Types of Chip and PIN machines

If you're a business owner or entrepreneur and you need to process a credit or debit card in person, then you will need a Chip and PIN machine.

There are three main types of Chip and PIN machines available: countertop, portable and mobile Chip and PIN machines.

Choosing the right type of card machine will depend on what you need it for, so we've elaborated on each machine's functionality and features so that you can make an informed decision.

Countertop Chip and PIN machines

A countertop Chip and PIN machine is suitable for businesses who prefer to accept payments from a fixed location within their premises.

The device is ideal for small stores, salons or eateries where the cashier is located behind a till. The countertop Chip and PIN can process transactions from a fixed point on the premises.

The terminal requires a cable connection, which can be linked to either the phone line or Wi-Fi network.

Countertop Chip and PIN machines are always connected directly to a power supply so they don't need to be charged, however they cannot be used away from the designated till point.

Portable Chip and PIN machines

Portable Chip and PIN machines, as the name suggests, allow the business owner or their staff to take the terminal directly to the customer via a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection.

The ease of convenience makes it the perfect option for restaurants and cafés who need a little more flexibility when it comes to accepting card payments.

Each portable device includes a base unit, which has to be connected to an electrical power supply in order to charge the machine. For most portable Chip and PIN machines, payments can be made up to 100m from the base unit, however this can differ depending on the model.

Mobile Chip and PIN machines

Mobile Chip and PIN machines have the advantage of being able to accept card payments almost anywhere. This type of terminal uses a built-in SIM card and roaming GPRS connection to connect to the strongest available mobile network.

The mobile option functions throughout the UK (provided the mobile connection is good) and is suitable for business owners on the go, such as travelling tradespeople and market vendors. This machine also comes with a base unit for charging.

How much do they cost?

The cost of a Chip and PIN machine will depend on which device works best for your business, and the merchant provider you choose. The total cost will include the monthly price of the machine, coupled with transaction fees.

When did Chip and PIN start

Chip and PIN technology was first introduced in 2004 in an effort to deter credit card fraud.

Aiming to replace the less-secure magnetic stripe card type, Chip and PIN introduced a safer way to pay. It has since been adopted on a global scale, with card payments hugely outperforming cash in recent years.

By 2016, the UK Cards Association reported that Chip and PIN accounted for 65% of all UK card purchases (although this is slowly but surely expected to be surpassed by contactless).

What are the benefits for Chip and PIN for businesses?

Chip and PIN machines are a great benefit for businesses of all types. The technology provides a safer and more secure method of payment in the following ways:

It's arguably faster than handling cash - reducing wait/queue times.

It's also much more secure, as it alleviates the need to keep a high amount of cash on site, so to speak.

In addition to the security benefits, Chip and PIN provides added convenience.

Contact Handepay to find out more about Chip and PIN machines

Find out more about Chip and PIN machines with Handepay. We provide a variety of cost-effective card payment services for businesses.

Choose from a range of card-reading machines in our range of terminals, which all come equipped with contactless payments as standard.

Would you like
a callback?

GET A FREE QUOTE

Talk to an advisor today...

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What is a Chip and PIN machine and how does it work?

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Chip and PIN machines are a debit and credit card payment system that process financial transactions. These devices are able to process a payment or transaction in a swift and secure manner. Most UK businesses use Chip and PIN technology because of the added security and convenience.

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A credit card, such as Barclaycard, isn't linked to your current account and is a credit facility that enables you to buy things immediately, up to a pre-arranged limit, and pay for them at a later date. The cost of the purchase is added to your credit card account and you get a statement every month.

You then have a choice of paying off the bill in full by a set date with no interest or paying at least a minimum amount and spreading the repayments over a period of time. You'll have to pay interest on the balance if you do this, therefore, the quicker you pay off your balance, the less interest you'll pay.

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Difference between a Debit and Credit Card | Barclays

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A credit card, such as Barclaycard, isn't linked to your current account and is a credit facility that enables you to buy things immediately, up to a pre-arranged limit, and pay for them at a later date. The cost of the purchase is added to your credit card account and you get a statement every month.

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What Is a Contactless Credit Card and How Do You Use It? | Capital One

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Wouldn't it be handy to log into one website, or open one app on your phone, and see all of your accounts - all of your current accounts, credit cards and savings - in one place?

Thanks to a new initiative called 'open banking', that should be possible.

On January 2018, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) forced the nine largest UK current account providers (Allied Irish Bank, Bank of Ireland, Barclays, Danske, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, Nationwide, RBS Group, Santander) to open up their data.

This means developers of mobile and web applications are able to 'plug in' to your current account data in a secure and standardised way, if you give them permission to do so.

So, what's open banking all about? In this guide, find out:

How will banks share my current account data through open banking?

Banks will be able to share customer data by publishing what's known as 'open APIs' or application programming interfaces.

They were told to be ready to do this by 13 January 2018, although the CMA had to grant an extension for six of the big nine.

This technology is already used by many well-known companies to provide integrated digital services.

For example, Uber overlaps with Google Maps so that customers can request a ride without having to switch to the Uber app, while travel app Citymapper connects to Transport for London data.

Open banking compliments a new set of rules being introduced across the European Union - under the second Payment Services Directive (PSD2) - that require banks, building societies and other financial providers to let customers easily and securely share their financial data, including transaction history and spending behaviour with other banks and regulated third-party providers.

PSD2 covers all payments accounts, including current accounts, flexible savings accounts, e-money accounts and credit cards, assuming you can manage all of these products online or via a smartphone app.

What are the benefits of open banking?

The aim is to encourage innovation and improve competition, by making it easier for you to hold multiple accounts and compare or switch financial products.

For now, open banking only applies to personal and small business accounts, although it will eventually be extended to cover other online payment products, such as credit cards and e-wallets.

Ultimately, it could allow you to manage all of your financial accounts and household bills through a single digital platform, with the option of allowing apps to 'plug in' and offer more personalised and intuitive services.

For example, an app might help you avoid charges or boost your savings by automatically moving money between various accounts. Open banking could also spur action in other markets, by encouraging you to look at your energy or phone bills.

Open banking vs screen-scraping

APIs aren't the only way to share your banking data with personal finance apps such as Chip (which automatically diverts spare cash to a savings account based on your spending habits) and Bud or Moneyhub (which let you view all of your accounts, cards, loans and investments in one place).

Money apps may also ask you to hand over your bank login details and give them permission to collect or 'screen-scrape' the data. Essentially, they pose as you, the customer, which can expose you to fraud.

One key benefit of open banking APIs is that you can authorise third-party access without having to reveal your login details to anyone other than your bank.

Sharing data via APIs is also more secure than screen-scraping because you know exactly what information is being shared and can more easily revoke access.

Screen-scraping is being phased out but some third party apps and websites still rely on this method of accessing your data.

For example, at launch, HSBC's Connected Money used screen-scraping to access all data other than its own, despite being pitched as an 'open banking app' in many publications.

Barclays and Lloyds Banking Group have launched similar apps, however, these exclusively use open banking APIs - which is why you can only view current accounts from specific providers.

If you do decide to use a third-party app that uses screen-scrapers instead of APIs, it's important that you trust them to have access to your accounts.

How do I use open banking?

Once you've given consent to a third party using open banking, you'll be redirected to your online banking login page where you'll enter your security details directly - crucially, these details won't be shared with the third party when you do this.

Watch the video below to see an example of adding an account to an app that uses open banking APIs (in this case, Yolt).

You should see a list of any firms you've given consent to via online banking, and you can stop sharing data at any time.

Do I have to share my banking data?

No, if you don't want to share your data, you don't have to. Third-party providers will need your explicit permission before they access your data through open APIs.

That means you don't have to opt-out - if you do nothing, your data will not be shared without your consent.

Will open banking be a flop, like Midata?

The big high-street banks will be keeping a close eye on tech giants such as Google, Facebook, Apple and Amazon, all of which have the status to transform the payments and banking industry once they have access to bank's customer data.

In the future, it could be the tech firms that manage every aspect of your finances, and banks could be relegated to holding your salary and nothing else.

That said, it's too early to say whether many consumers will take advantage of open banking, although it's worth remembering that Midata - the government's previous attempt to encourage switching by opening up banking data - failed to have any meaningful impact.

The big banks wouldn't let you share your data if they weren't being forced to, but a few seem less reluctant than others to (publically at least) embrace the upcoming changes.

For instance, Barclays added an open banking feature to its mobile banking app in September 2018, enabling customers to securely view the balances and transactions of other current accounts they hold when they log into their Barclays app. For now, it can only link accounts held with Lloyds, Halifax, Bank of Scotland, RBS, NatWest, Nationwide or Santander.

How do I check a firm is authorised to offer open banking services?

The OBIE or Open Banking Implementation Entity (which has been set up by the CMA to deliver open banking) told Which? that banks and third-party providers can only 'talk' to each other via the 'Open Banking Directory' - the IT platform which makes it possible for them to exchange information securely via open APIs - and to be enrolled on the directory, they must be appropriately regulated.

There is now a list of firms enrolled in open banking, all of which are regulated. It's worth noting that banks may explicitly state in their terms and conditions that you are responsible for checking that any third-party provider you want to use is authorised, not the bank.

You can also use the Financial Services Register to see if a third-party provider is registered and authorised to carry out one or both of these two activities:

Account information sharing services such as budgeting apps and price comparison sites that let you view accounts from multiple providers in one place.

Payment initiation services that allow you to instruct payments to be made directly out of your bank account, as an alternative to using a third party such as a Visa debit card or PayPal.

And, if you have a complaint about a provider, you will still have access to:

If you decide you no longer want a third-party provider to have access to your data, you should be able to easily revoke consent.

The nine participating banks and building societies should provide an 'authorisation dashboard' where you can see a list of providers with permission to access your account data. You can withdraw permissions whenever you wish to, at the press of a button.

Third-party providers are also being encouraged to offer a dashboard that lets customers easily review and revoke their consent.

Who is liable for unauthorised payments in open banking?

If you notice a payment that you didn't authorise, you can make a claim from your bank, even if that payment has been initiated through a third-party provider.

Your bank must refund you immediately, unless they have grounds to suspect fraud or negligence. If the third-party was at fault, the bank can recover the funds from them.

However, Which? is concerned that open banking could lead to a higher number of authorised push payment (APP) scams, where fraudsters trick account holders into making a payment or transfer, often by posing as their bank or the police.

Our super-complaint on bank-transfer scams has called on the Payment Systems Regulator to ensure banks better protect customers who are tricked into sending money to a fraudster.
Screen-scraping and fraud
As we explained above, open banking is a better way to share your data than screen-scraping because you don't need to share your account login details directly.

Banks can't block screen-scraping, however, they could refuse to refund fraud losses if you choose to share login details with a firm that isn't authorised and regulated by the FCA (check this on the Financial Services Register) or another European regulator.

What are the security risks to open banking?

Open banking should give you greater control over your money, but it raises critical questions about data privacy, security, and financial exclusion.

Even regulated firms aren't immune from cyberattacks, as evidenced by the recent Equifax data breach, and bank account transactions can include highly sensitive personal data about spending habits, political affiliations, medical care, family and friends.

The OBIE says: 'The regulated third-party provider the consumer has given their consent to for sharing their data with, is responsible for ensuring any personal data they process, store or transfer is appropriately and securely protected.

'The consumer can directly complain to the third-party provider in the first instance, and should this not resolve the issue, they can lodge a complaint with the FOS. They can also lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioners Office.'

But, with a complicated chain of providers sharing access to your data, multiple parties could be potentially liable for loss of a personal customer's data though error, attack, or fraud.

The issue of 'consent' needs to be looked at carefully, so that consumers understand exactly what they are agreeing to when they share their data.

This is particularly important when apps or services combine open banking with other methods of data sharing.

For example, if an app uses the open banking API to access current account data, but has to rely on screen-scraping to access data for other products such as mortgages and credit cards, it's vital that the distinction between the two is made clear.

Which? will be watching closely to make sure financial and data regulators work hard to safeguard consumers in this context, and build trust in these new services.

Open banking for small businesses

Small businesses (SMEs) are also set to benefit from open banking, and we have a good idea of what this might look like thanks to an initiative called the 'Open Up Challenge'.

Launched in February 2017 by UK charity Nesta, and backed by the CMA, this called on fintechs and start-ups to propose apps and services for small businesses.

The 20 successful entrants received a £50,000 up-front development grant and were given access to a 'Data Sandbox', containing anonymised UK banking transaction datasets and open APIs, to help develop their products in line with the new standards for open banking.

Ten winners were announced in December 2017, earning £100,000 for developing products deemed most likely to have a positive impact on UK small businesses, including: account aggregation app Bud; freelancer current account provider Coconut; alternative lender iwoca;

The competition regulator asked the eight largest SME banking providers to provide the funding for this challenge (Allied Irish Bank, Bank of Ireland UK, Barclays, Danske, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, RBS Group, Santander).

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Open banking: sharing your financial data

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Wouldn't it be handy to log into one website, or open one app on your phone, and see all of your accounts - all of your current accounts, credit cards and savings - in one place? Thanks to a new initiative called 'open banking', that should be possible.

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Do you have more than one account? New services mean you can now see all your accounts in a single banking app. Find out more on our Open Banking and sharing your information online page.

Banking online means accessing your bank account and carrying out financial transactions through the internet on your smartphone, tablet or computer.

It's quick, usually free and allows you to do tasks, such as paying bills and transferring money, without having to visit or call your bank.

Many banks also have free apps which let you use these services from your smartphone or tablet.

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How to stay safe when using online banking

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Do you have more than one account? New services mean you can now see all your accounts in a single banking app. Find out more on our Open Banking and sharing your information online page. Banking online means accessing your bank account and carrying out financial transactions through the internet on your smartphone, tablet or computer.

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If you're paying over the odds for your overdraft, we've 10 ways to help you cut your costs. See what works for you in this Money Saving Expert guide

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It comes with most bank accounts to let you borrow money and keep spending if your balance reaches zero.

For example, if you had no money left in your account and then spent £50, you would have a negative balance of -£50. This is called being overdrawn.

Some overdrafts charge no interest or fees, meaning you can use them to borrow money for free.

These can be the cheapest way to borrow a small amount of money for a short period. This can be useful if you need to cover a bill in an emergency or if you run out of money before payday.

However, they can be very expensive if:
What overdraft limit can you get?
They can be between £10 and thousands of pounds. The maximum limit on your authorised overdraft depends on two things:

How much the bank is willing to offer on their accounts. Some offer an overdraft for a set amount like £500 as standard.

Your financial circumstances. Some banks decide if they can offer you an overdraft and its maximum limit by checking your income and credit record.

Can you withdraw overdraft money?
If you go beyond your overdraft limit, some banks let you continue to spend money. There may be a limit before they stop you making cash withdrawals, spending on your card or paying bills. Ask your bank if they have a limit.
How long do overdrafts last?
Yes, you can withdraw cash from your overdraft using a cash machine. How much you can withdraw depends what your daily limit has been set as by your bank.
How to get an overdraft
You sometimes have to pay back an unauthorised overdraft before a deadline set by your bank.

Your bank can also withdraw a free overdraft, which means you would have to pay it back before the date they set; otherwise you have to pay fees.
Who can get an overdraft? What types of overdrafts are there?
You can get one by applying for a bank account that offers an overdraft. Most banks offer accounts with overdrafts, but not all of their accounts have them. For example, basic and prepaid current accounts do not come with overdrafts.

It includes details of the fees and interest rate that comes with each overdraft so you can choose the cheapest option.
How much do they cost?
Banks have their own eligibility rules on who they offer their accounts to, but you usually need to be at least 18 and live in the UK to get an overdraft.

Authorised or agreed overdrafts give you a limit that your bank decides on when you open an account. For example, if you had an overdraft limit of £500, you could still spend £500 after you spent all the money in your account.

Unauthorised or unplanned overdrafts are when you have a negative balance on a bank account that does not have an overdraft, or if you spend beyond the limit on an account with an agreed overdraft. They are usually much more expensive.

Banks used to charge several fees and interest charges for overdrafts for authorised overdrafts. These same fees and charges used to be even higher for unauthorised overdrafts.

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It comes with most bank accounts to let you borrow money and keep spending if your balance reaches zero. For example, if you had no money left in your account and then spent £50, you would have a negative balance of -£50. This is called being overdrawn.

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Major changes affecting the cost of overdrafts were introduced in April 2020. Banks used to charge higher fees for unauthorised overdrafts, but since April 2020 they are not allowed to do this.

Interest on all overdrafts is charged at a single annual interest rate (APR), making it easier to compare charges between accounts.

Interest rates from banks and building societies on their overdrafts range from 19% to 40% or more.

If you're worried, unsure or think you're now worse off because of these changes, then:

Contact your bank. Banks might, for example, reduce or waive interest, offer a continuation of overdraft borrowing at the current rate of interest, or agree on a repayment programme, which might include a personal loan. Speak to your bank or building society as soon as you can.

If you feel vulnerable for any reason, explain your circumstances and your provider is obliged to take this into consideration.

If these changes mean you're struggling to pay bills or fall into debt, or you're already in debt, you should find help as soon as possible.

Find out more in our blog about what the changes to overdrafts mean for you.

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Major changes affecting the cost of overdrafts were introduced in April 2020. Banks used to charge higher fees for unauthorised overdrafts, but since April 2020 they are not allowed to do this. Interest on all overdrafts is charged at a single annual interest rate (APR), making it easier to compare charges between accounts.

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Most people use a current account with a bank or building society to manage their day-to-day money.

It allows you to:

pay bills by Direct Debit or standing order

receive automated payments, such as salary, wages or benefits

have an overdraft, although the bank will need to authorise this

pay for things with a debit card and withdraw money from cashpoint machines.

To help you manage your money, you can:

use the secure bank app, to check and make payments

set up text alerts, to warn you of a low balance.

If you've dipped into your overdraft in the past, make sure you check fees and charges for going overdrawn.

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Most people use a current account with a bank or building society to manage their day-to-day money. It allows you to: pay bills by Direct Debit or standing order receive automated payments, such as salary, wages or benefits have an overdraft, although the bank will need to authorise this pay for things with a debit card and withdraw money from cashpoint machines.

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What's the difference between standing order and direct debit?

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What's the difference between standing order and direct debit?

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What's the difference between standing order and Direct Debit?

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Direct Debits, standing orders and recurring card payments

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Direct Debits, standing orders and recurring card payments

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When you set up a Direct Debit, you tell your bank or building society to let an organisation take money from your account.

The organisation can collect however much you owe them. But they have to tell you in advance (usually ten working days) how much they'll take, when, and how often.

Direct Debits are handy for paying regular bills, such as gas or electricity - especially if the amount regularly changes.

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When you set up a Direct Debit, you tell your bank or building society to let an organisation take money from your account. The organisation can collect however much you owe them. But they have to tell you in advance (usually ten working days) how much they'll take, when, and how often.

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The following are some of the places you may be able to get a bank account

Barclays

Co-op

Credit Union

HSBC

Lloyds

M&S

Metro

Monzo (app)

Nationwide

Natwest

Santander

Smile

Starling

TSB

Virgin

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Below is an example. There are plenty of others around!

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student current accounts opening a student bank account

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1|2|3 Student Bank & Current Accounts - Santander UK

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Makes student life a little easier with our Student Current Account, you'll get a free Santander 16-25 Railcard, interest on your balance and fee-free Arranged Overdraft.

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Below is an example. There are plenty of others around!

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To apply, you need to be 18+ and a UK resident. To hold this account, you need to pay in £1,250 to an eligible NatWest account every month.

Learn how to earn and exchange Rewards

Earn Rewards

Earn £4 a month back in Rewards for 2 or more Direct Debits (2 of those Direct Debits needs to be at least £2 each). Plus, earn an extra £1 a month back in Rewards with 1 mobile app log in. That's up to £5 a month back in Rewards to spend on whatever you like!

Also earn 1% back in Rewards when you spend with our retail partners: Caffe Nero, EuropCar, Barrhead Travel, Boux Avenue, P&O Ferries and ATG Tickets.

Your Rewards balance can grow quickly, they're easy to earn and they're easy to exchange!

Exchange Rewards

For cash back, gift cards and more

Once you reach £5 in Rewards, the choice is yours. You can redeem it as cash back, trade up for gift cards and e-codes with our retail partners, or donate to one of our chosen charities.
How to exchange your Rewards?
As soon as your available Rewards balance is the equivalent of £5 or more, you can log in to MyRewards to exchange them. Keep in mind, if you choose to bank your Rewards it will take 5 working days to clear.

To login, you first need to set-up your MyRewards account. You'll need your NatWest debit card number on hand.

Our range of savings accounts

We have a range of savings accounts available to our current account holders.

Compare our savings accounts

Whether you're new to saving, or more of an expert, our Savings Hub is designed to help you find the savings account that best suits your needs. We have a range of accounts which you could have access to if you open a current account with us.
View all savings accounts
Individual account eligibility criteria and conditions may apply.

Get rewarded for saving regularly

We've just added Digital Regular Saver to our range of savings accounts. You'll get our highest interest rate when you save between £1-£50 by standing order each month, on balances up to £1000. What are you waiting for?
View our Digital Regular Saver
Specific account eligibility criteria and conditions apply.

How do overdrafts work?

An arranged overdraft can be useful for short term borrowing. Understand arranged and unarranged overdrafts and their impact on your account. An overdraft is a form of borrowing and is repayable on demand.

How overdrafts work - details

There are two different types of overdraft:

An arranged overdraft, which allows you to go overdrawn up to an agreed limit. This is the type of overdraft you could apply for here. During your application for an arranged overdraft, we'll run a full credit check to determine how much we can offer you.

An unarranged overdraft. This is when you spend more money than you have in your current account without already having an arranged overdraft, or when you exceed your current arranged overdraft limit.

We charge interest on both types of overdraft. Going in to an unarranged overdraft limit can lead to payments being rejected.
More about Overdrafts

How much will an overdraft cost?

Understand the cost and impact of overdrafts and whether you're eligible to apply for one. If you don't repay what is owed, you could harm your credit score and borrowing capability.

How much does my overdraft cost in pounds and pence?

This account offers an Overdraft facility (subject to eligibility). You can check if you're likely to be accepted for an overdraft using our eligibility tool.

As an example, the interest cost of using a £500 arranged overdraft is:

Time Period
7 days

30 days

60 days

Interest Cost
£3.24

£13.87

£28.13

This is a specific illustrative example representing the interest cost of using a £500 arranged overdraft over periods of 7, 30 and 60 days.

Looking to understand the costs of an overdraft of more or less than £500 over different periods of time? Use our handy cost calculator.

If you don't pay it back, it could have an impact on your credit score.
Representative Example: Effective Annual Rate: 39.49% EAR (variable). Representative APR: 39.49% APR (variable). Assumed credit limit: £1,200.

Open a bank account online - FAQs

The most common proof of ID and address documents we accept:
Proof of ID documents:

Drivers Licence (UK/EU/EAA)

UK passport, Foreign passport & Visa

EU and EEA National Identity Card

Proof of address documents:

Drivers Licence

UK utility bill (gas, electricity, water, home telephone)

Bank/Building Society statement

Council tax bill

More details on Proof of ID and address

If you're new to NatWest, we'll ask for information about you like: full name, home address and contact details. We'll also ask about your nationality and tax residency status (which country you pay tax in).

If you already bank with NatWest, you can use your Online Banking details to log in to the application form and and we'll pre-fill some of your details in the form to make it speedier.

If you're eligible for an overdraft, we'll ask about your finances and your monthly take home pay.

Have these details ready to speed up the application process.

If you're a new customer, we have to confirm your identity to make sure we're opening the account for the right person. We do this through our trusted online identification and security partner HooYu.

HooYu can quickly and safely verify people from all over the world using digital footprints, ID document authentication and facial biometrics. It's not only safer, it also speeds up the application process meaning your account is opened faster.

This way, we can check you are you, while keeping your details completely safe and secure.

You should receive your debit card 3 - 5 working days after your account is open.

Download the NatWest app to manage your money, make payments and regularly check your balance.

If you carry on applying, it means you're happy with what's in these documents, including the FSCS information sheet. And happy to view your statements in Online Banking - not posted. Please take some time to review, print and/or save the important information.

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Open a NatWest Reward Current Account | NatWest Bank Accounts

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To apply, you need to be 18+ and a UK resident. To hold this account, you need to pay in £1,250 to an eligible NatWest account every month. Learn how to earn and exchange Rewards Earn Rewards Earn £4 a month back in Rewards for 2 or more Direct Debits (2 of those Direct Debits needs to be at least £2 each).

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Below is an example. There are plenty of others around!

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Samsung Pay

Carry your credit and debit cards on your Galaxy device - and make secure contactless payments on the go.

Store your cards in a virtual wallet, and use them just like you would with your contactless card.

Your cards are stored safely and securely with a unique virtual account number. This means that your personal details will never be shared with the recipient - just the vital information to make the payment.

Pay in-store by activating your device, selecting your card of choice and verifying the payment by either scanning your fingerprint or iris, or by entering your Samsung Pay 4 digit PIN. Just hold your device above the contactless terminal and make a payment.
Some merchants may set a maximum spend for Samsung Pay.

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Basic Bank Account | Current Accounts | The Co-operative Bank

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Carry your credit and debit cards on your Galaxy device - and make secure contactless payments on the go. Store your cards in a virtual wallet, and use them just like you would with your contactless card. Your cards are stored safely and securely with a unique virtual account number.

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Below is an example. There are plenty of others around!

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An overdraft limit is a borrowing facility which allows you to borrow money through your current account.

There are two types of overdraft - arranged and unarranged.

An arranged overdraft is a pre-agreed limit, which lets you spend more money than you have in your current account. It can be a safety net to cover short-term outgoings, like an unexpected bill. It is not suitable for longer-term borrowing. We charge you for every day of the month that you use your arranged overdraft where you go beyond any fee-free limit you may have.

An unarranged overdraft is when you spend more money than you have in your current account and you have not agreed an arranged overdraft limit with us in advance or you have exceeded an existing arranged borrowing facility.

You can only make payments from your account if you have enough money in your account or through an arranged overdraft to cover them. Barclays will always attempt to return any transaction that could take your account into an unarranged overdraft position. Having enough money in your current account or having an arranged overdraft limit could help prevent payments such as priority bills from being returned unpaid.

On very rare occasions we may be unable to return a payment (e.g. due to an offline transaction made on a flight) and the account may enter an unarranged overdraft. No additional charges will be applied in this situation.

Information regarding the conduct of your account may be sent to credit reference agencies. As with any debt or borrowing, this may affect your ability to get credit in the future.

Our Eligibility tool can show you the likelihood of getting an arranged overdraft and the overdraft calculator lets you see how much it could cost to use an overdraft. To use these tools and find out more about overdraft charges, please visit www.barclays.co.uk/youroverdraft.

If we hold a valid mobile number for you, we'll automatically enrol you to receive relevant alerts regarding borrowing and refused payments, to help you avoid charges. You can also choose to receive additional alerts, including Low Balance and Large Credit or Debit. Tailor your alerts to your personal needs online, by phone or in branch. To find out more, visit https://www.barclays.co.uk/alerts.

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Bank Accounts | UK Online Bank Account | Barclays

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An overdraft limit is a borrowing facility which allows you to borrow money through your current account. There are two types of overdraft - arranged and unarranged. An arranged overdraft is a pre-agreed limit, which lets you spend more money than you have in your current account.

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Your current account balance is the amount you are either in credit, or in debit (overdrawn). This balance may include transactions that are still being processed.

From 24 November, it does not include any arranged overdraft limit.

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Banking Definitions | Bank Terminology - HSBC UK

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Your current account balance is the amount you are either in credit, or in debit (overdrawn). This balance may include transactions that are still being processed. From 24 November, it does not include any arranged overdraft limit.