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What you need to apply

To meet our regulatory requirements in relation to customer identification and to protect both you and us from fraud, we will verify all applicants electronically or, where this is not possible, by requesting paper proofs.

If you are applying in person at a local Co-operative Bank branch, you will be asked to take some paper proofs with you to confirm both your Identity and Address – any of the following are acceptable. (You need to bring one proof from each list)

Proof of Identity:

  • Passport*
  • Full or Provisional Photo-Card Driving Licence*
  • EEA Member State Identity Photo-Card*
  • National ID card (for non EEA nationals)
  • Shotgun Licence or Firearms Certificate
  • Identity card issued by the Electoral Office for Northern Ireland
  • DWP letter confirming the right to State Benefits (Incl. State Pension)
  • HMRC Tax Notification/Assessment/Coding

Proof of Address:

  • UK Full or Provisional Photo-Card Driving Licence
  • DWP letter confirming the right to State Benefits (Incl. State Pension)
  • HMRC Tax Notification/Assessment/Coding
  • Utility Service Bill
  • Local Authority Tax Bill
  • Bank/Credit Card/Building Society/Mortgage Lender statement
  • Local Authority/Housing Association Tenancy Agreement/Letter
  • Letter from Nursing Home/Care Home

One document cannot be used to fulfil both POI and POA requirements. For example, a driving licence appears on both POI and POA lists, however this single proof cannot satisfy both POI and POA requirements

Please note that if you are applying for a student account you will need to provide proof of your course in the format of a letter from your college or university.

Providing proofs at this early stage should avoid us asking for additional proofs at a later stage which would delay the application.

If you are applying by post, telephone or internet you will be advised if paper proofs are required.

If you are unable to provide any of the paper proofs listed above, please call into a local Co-operative Bank branch or contact us on 08457 212 212 (Call charges) and one of our customer services advisers will be able to discuss with you any other proofs we can accept to open your account.

* With an English translation