To apply for the account you'll need to prove who you are and prove you will have enough future funds to ensure the account is used appropriately.

By law banks and building societies have to check you are who you say you are. This is to try and stop organised criminals using bank accounts for criminal gain.

You'll need two documents; one to prove who you are; the other to show where you live. The same document cannot be used as proof of both. The following documents are acceptable:

Proof of who you are:

• UK passport
• UK photocard driving licence
• Birth certificate
• NHS medical card
• National Insurance card

Proof of where you live:

• UK photocard driving licence
• UCAS letter showing your name and address
• Student Loan Company award letter
• University or college offer letter

Other documents are also acceptable, such as a recent utility bill, a car insurance certificate, or a vehicle registration document. If for any reason you do not have the suitable documents, the bank may be happy to accept a signed assurance from a parent or teacher.

The bank may also want to see proof of future income before allowing you access to some of their services. They will accept as evidence an award letter from the Student Loan Company, or a direct debit instruction from a parent or guardian showing funds to be paid into your account.

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