Proof of Address: What Counts and What Doesn’t?

Revolut Contributor

 · 04/26/2020  · 04/26/2020

What can be used as proof of address? How can I get proof of address without bills? Can I use a bank statement as proof of address?

The answers to these questions, and more, are below.

Providing proof of address helps banks, governments and other organisations prevent fraud by verifying the identity of citizens.

When it comes to banking, these measures are important in keeping your money and identity safe. Banks will not allow you to open an account unless you’re able to provide the necessary documentation.

This means that knowing what counts as valid proof of address is vital in terms of conducting personal and professional business, easily and efficiently.

While it’s easy to understand why this is important, there are various situations that may make proof of address hard to come by. If you’re new to a country or you’ve recently moved house, for example, getting the right documents together can be difficult.

That doesn’t always mean you won’t be able to open an account, however. Many banks have measures in place to help those who may not be able to come by a proof of address that easily.

For an idea of what you can use as proof of address, read on.

What Can Be Used as Proof of Address?

The policies of different banks vary when it comes to the best proof of address to use and what they accept as valid. This is not only applicable to document-type but also to whether or not you need to have the original copy. While some banks may accept photocopies of your valid ID, others will need to see the original document.

And while all banks are different in this regard, there are clear similarities when it comes to what sort of proof of address is acceptable.

To help you better understand what these are, here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked proof of address questions:

  • Can I use a bank statement as proof of address? Most banks will accept a bank statement as proof of address, provided it’s recent. The general period for relevance is three months. Statements are typically accepted from banks, credit unions and building societies. Credit card statements, provided they’re recent, are also generally considered a legitimate option.
  • Can payslip be proof of address? If your payslip has your current address on it, some banks may accept this as proof of address. It’s likely, however, that you may need to supplement this with a passport or some other form of identity verification.
  • How can I get proof of address without bills? If you’re new to the country, obtaining bills as proof of address may be challenging. Most banks do take this into account and allow you to provide a proof of address letter that will verify your identity. Accepted letters may be from sources such as your university, employer, or another bank customer who can legally vouch for you.

Which Documents Count as Proof of Address in the UK?

All banks in the UK require proof of address to open bank accounts.

Here is a list of some proof of address examples that are used by most banks in the UK:

  • Recent bank or credit union statement
  • Up-to-date credit card statement
  • Household utility bill (electricity, gas, water, landline, etc.)
  • Council tax bill
  • Valid UK driving license
  • NHS card
  • The rental agreement for your current residence
  • The mortgage statement for your current residence

Documents that are typically not counted as proof of address include:

  • Passports
  • Birth certificates
  • Outdated statements or bills

Remember that all banks have different requirements. Talk to yours to find out what they require to keep you and your money safe.

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