Frequently asked questions
- What is a Current Account?
- What is a Basic Bank Account?
- Which Branch will hold my account?
- Where can I find my Account number?
- How can I withdraw cash from my Account?
- How often will I receive a Statement?
- How can I check my balance?
- Can I get a cashcard and PIN straight away?
- What should I do if I lose my card?
- Can I still use cheques to pay for goods?
- Can I draw money as soon as it has been paid in?
- Will my account close if I empty it?
What is a Current Account?
An account with easy access to your money and which allows you to pay bills, get cash from cash machines and set up overdrafts if necessary
What is a Basic Bank Account?
A current account which doesn't allow you to go into debt.
Which Branch will hold my account?
The branch where your account is opened. Although you can use other branches, on-line and telephone facilities as well.
Where can I find my Account number?
You will be notified of your account number after you have opened your account. It can also be found on statements and cheque-books.
How can I withdraw cash from my Account?
You can withdraw cash across the counter at any branch or by using a debit card at an ATM. You can also ask for cashback in some shops.
How often will I receive a Statement?
You will normally receive a statement every month, every quarter or at least once a year.
How can I check my balance?
From your statement, from a cash-machine, in a branch, on the internet or over the telephone. You may be asked some security questions before details will be released.
Can I get a cashcard and PIN straight away?
Yes, but your card and PIN number will be sent separately for security reasons.
What should I do if I lose my card?
You need to contact your bank straight away so that the card can be stopped.
Can I still use cheques to pay for goods?
Yes, but most retailers will also require your cheque guarantee card before accepting payment.
Can I withdraw money as soon as it has been paid in?
Generally you can, as long as the money was paid into your account as cash, or there are already enough funds in your account to meet the withdrawal. Otherwise, it may take up to seven days to clear a cheque before cleared funds are available.
Will my account close if I empty it?
Your account will normally stay open until you instruct the Bank to close it.
