Savings FAQs

We do not open savings accounts for non-UK residents.

You can open a savings account at any of our branches, no appointment is needed. Alternatively, you can post us a fully completed application form and a cheque made payable to yourself to our Tipton Head Office.

We have access to credit reference agency databases which in the majority of cases will allow us to prove your identity and address without the need for paper-based identification. However, if we do require further proof we will let you know. Please click here to see our list of acceptable identification.

If you would like to open an ISA with us we will require your National Insurance number.

We do not currently have the facility for you to access your savings account online.

We have access to credit reference agencies, which in most cases will allow us to verify your identification without the need for paper-based identification, however we will sometimes need you to provide us with additional proof of identity and our branch staff will let you know if that is the case. Please see our list of acceptable identification for further detail.

If you would like to open an ISA with us we will also require your National Insurance number.

You can close your account by coming into one of our branches or through the post to our Tipton Head Office. You should check your account terms and conditions as some of our savings accounts require notice to be given. Postal accounts can only be closed in writing, through the post.

To close your account through the post we will need a signed letter requesting us to close your account and your passbook.

If you decide within 14 days of opening that the account you’ve chosen is not suitable for you, you will be able to close the account without charge. We can arrange to give your money back to you or transfer it to another account that is more suitable to your needs.

Please be aware that the 14 day cooling off period does not apply to Fixed Rate Savings accounts.

You do not need to make an appointment to open a new savings account, simply visit your local branch. You can also open an account by post if you're unable to get to a branch, we just need you to send your completed application form and a cheque for your opening deposit.

If you wish to speak to an Adviser to discuss our mortgages or want independent financial advice then you will need to make an appointment. You can call us on 0121 557 2551, visit one of our branches or arrange a call back using our contact us form.

You cannot add another person to your existing account. Many of our accounts can be opened in joint names.

You can pay money into your account by sending a cheque made payable to yourself through the post to our Tipton Head Office, visiting any of our branches, or by internal transfer from another account you hold with us.

You can also set up a standing order from your bank or building society to transfer money or send a one off electronic transfer. In such cases you will need to quote:

• our sort code - 20-27-33;
• our bank account number - 70885096; and
• your own passbook number.

Sort code: 20-27-33

Account number: 70885096

To pay money into your account electronically you will also need your own account number. This is often requested on forms as a reference number. You can find your account number at the top of your passbook, under Passbook Account Number.

We do not offer current accounts and therefore, no electronic payments can be set up from your account.

A child must be at least 16 years old to open an account in their own name.

You do not need your passbook to pay money into your account. We will be happy to update your passbook next time you visit our offices.