Joint bank accounts aren't just for couples; they're useful for anyone sharing expenses. It's important to weigh up the pros and cons of the many different offers out there before taking the plunge.
Communicating clearly with your banking buddy is also important, so you’re definitely on the same page regarding goals and priorities.
Here’s all you need to know before opening a joint bank account.
Who Can Open a Joint Account?
Opening a joint account is an option that’s certainly not confined to wedded couples sorting out their housekeeping funds.
According to research by Legal & General, while 32% of UK couples living together opt to mingle their finances in one, a notable 68% do not, highlighting that this financial move isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.
The diversity of those who do choose this path is broad – from unwed partners and mates splitting the rent to parents with adult children and people in caregiving arrangements.
Figure 1: UK cohabiting couples with joint bank accounts
What Documents Do We Need?
- All applicants must be over 18 and residents of the UK or EU. For identification, each person will need to present either a passport, driver’s licence, or EU identity card.
- Proof of address can be provided through a utility bill, council tax bill, or mortgage statement/rent agreement.
- Some banks may request additional financial documentation, such as a payslip, bank statement, or tax return.
- The bank will likely run a credit check using agencies such as TransUnion, Equifax, or Experian, and you may wish to review your credit score in advance, though this could incur a small fee.
Who Offers the Best Joint Accounts?
Once you've compiled the necessary documents to open a joint account, you'll need to choose a bank for you and your partner. The wide array of choices can seem daunting.
At CompareBanks, we have meticulously assessed and rated the top 10 joint accounts available to UK customers. (Spoiler alert: it was a three-way tie between Starling Bank, Zempler Bank and Revolut.)
Our ranking was produced by evaluating key aspects such as customer service, budgeting tools, savings options, fee structures, credit-building features, ease of use, additional perks, international functionality, overdraft provisions and eligibility criteria. We continually review the data so the list remains up to date.
Of course, what is the “best” bank hinges on your specific circumstances and preferences, so carefully consider the pros and cons we've detailed for each bank to identify the one that best meets your needs.
Table 1: CompareBanks’ pros and cons list for joint bank accounts
| Bank Name | Pros | Cons |
| Starling Bank | Excellent customer service, budgeting tools, fee-free abroad spending | Daily cash withdrawal limits, overdraft interest |
| Zempler Bank | Improves credit score, FSCS protected | Cash deposit charge |
| Revolut | Multiple currencies, flexible plans | Monthly fee for top features, ATM limits |
| Santander | Cashback, easy application, overdraft options | Perks with fees, high overdraft rates |
| HSBC | No monthly fees, rewards programme | High APR for overdrafts |
| First Direct | No account fees, excellent service, no fees abroad | No cashback/rewards |
| Lloyds Bank | Cashback, interest on balance, varied account choices | Monthly fee for some accounts |
| Barclays | Reward options, feature-rich app | Strict requirements for Premier account |
| RBS | Perks and rewards, in-branch or online banking | Eligibility criteria, fees for some accounts |
| NatWest | Reliable banking, account variety | Monthly fees, account ownership limit |
How Long Does It Take?
Applying for a bank account online typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes, during which you'll need to answer questions and upload necessary documents. Decision times can vary, with many banks offering immediate decisions, while others may take up to a few days, particularly for new customers.
For instance, HSBC and Barclays often provide quick access post-approval, whereas NatWest might require up to 10 working days for new clients, with immediate access for existing ones.
If you’re in a rush, you might want to check out our analysis of the fastest banks to set up a current or business account with.
Communication is Key: How to Manage a Joint Account
Linking your financial lives with a joint account is a big step and great for shared goals, but remember, an overdraft caused by one of you becomes a shared headache. In addition, your hard-earned money that you deposit in a joint account can be splurged in a second by your partner.
When setting up the account, chat about what you'll each put in and agree on what it should cover – maybe keep those personal treats like a £30 lipstick or a £40-a-month sports TV subscription out of this pot if you’re not comfortable with having to explain them to your banking buddy.
Regular catch-ups can help you both keep tabs on where the money's going and make sure no one's caught off guard. And about those debts? Decide together whether you're tackling them as a team or keeping them individual – after all, transparency and teamwork make the financial dream work!
Our Conclusion
Joint bank accounts are not a one-size-fits-all solution, but with the right approach, they can offer significant benefits for managing shared financial commitments.
Whether it's Starling Bank's customer service excellence or Revolut's multi-currency flexibility, the best account depends on your unique needs and circumstances.
It's essential to discuss openly what you both expect from the account, from contribution amounts to transaction privacy for those occasional indulgences or subscriptions.
With clear communication, mutual understanding, and regular financial check-ins, a joint account can be a powerful tool for achieving shared financial goals.
FAQs
Who can open a joint bank account in the UK?
Anyone over 18 residing in the UK, not just married couples, can open a joint account, including friends and family members.
What documents are needed to open a joint bank account?
You'll need identification (passport, driver's licence, or EU ID card) and proof of address (utility bill, council tax bill, or tenancy agreement), with some banks also requiring financial proof.
How do I choose the best joint bank account?
Consider what's important to you, such as customer service, fees, and features.
What are the key considerations for managing a joint bank account?
Communicate openly about contributions and expenditures, establish clear rules for personal spending, and regularly review account activity together.
