Are you worried about what will happen to your bank account if you go bankrupt? Don’t be. You are allowed to have an account in your name.
This guide explains which bank accounts stay open while you are bankrupt and how to make sure there is no interruption to your day to day banking needs.
Contents
Will your bank account be closed if you go bankrupt?
When you go bankrupt, some types of accounts are closed and others remain open. It depends on the type of account you have.
All standard current accounts in your name will be closed. This will happen regardless of whether you owe money to the bank or not. The bank will close the account even if you don’t have an arranged overdraft facility.
The reason for this is simply banking industry policy. Banks just don’t allow people who are bankrupt to operate current accounts.
The good news however is that you can have a basic bank account. Any such account in your name will remain open.
When you complete your section 3 of your application form – ‘Bank Accounts and Savings’ – make sure you list your basic account and mark it as your main account. The Official Receiver will send a letter (known as the BANK2 letter) to the bank confirming they have no interest in it.
Unsure whether your account is basic or not? Check the name of the account on the bank’s website or give them a call to get confirmation. If it’s not, you will have to change it.
Should you open a new bank account before going bankrupt?
If you have a current account, the bank will freeze you out shortly after you go bankrupt.
Under normal circumstances you will be locked out of your internet banking and mobile banking app within a few days. Because of this, you need to open a new basic bank account to use instead.
Your new account needs to be basic. This type of account still gives you all the banking facilities you need. These include internet and mobile banking, a debit card and the ability to have your income paid in and to set up direct debits. However, it will not offer you any credit facilities.
Generally speaking, it is best to open your new basic account before you go bankrupt.
This will give you the opportunity to ensure it works properly before your old account gets closed. It will mean you have no time where you have no access to a bank account at all.
You must list your new account on your application as your main bank account. It will remain open after you go bankrupt. The bank does not mind because they will not offer you any credit with the account.
Here are some examples of basic accounts which we know remain open after you go bankrupt:
- Monzo standard account
- Starling standard account
- Co-Op Cash Minder
- Nationwide Flex Basic
- NatWest Foundation
- Virgin Money M Account
You can open a basic bank account even if you already have a poor credit rating.
Can you open a bank account after you go bankrupt?
If you are already bankrupt and the bank has frozen your account, what can you do?
Unfortunately, if it was a current account, it will not be possible to re-instate it. For this reason, you now need to focus on opening a new basic account. You are allowed to do this after you have been made bankrupt.
It is possible to apply for a basic bank account at any time after you have gone bankrupt. Your application should be successful because you don’t need to pass a credit check.
You can apply for more than one account if you wish. So if you start with one bank and find you don’t like them for some reason, you can just open another.
Alternatively you might want one account for household bills and another for different expenses. If you want this type of facility, consider one of the online banks such as Monzo or Starling. These allow you to create different ‘pots’ of money within the same account to use for different purposes.
Basic bank accounts do not require yo to pass a credit check. As such, they are accessible if you are already bankrupt or are using another debt solution such as an IVA or Debt Management Plan.
What happens to a joint account if you go bankrupt?
How bankruptcy affects your joint bank account depends on whether or not it is a current account. If so, the account will be at risk of being frozen.
If there is no outstanding overdraft on the account, the best policy is to take your name off it before going bankrupt.
The other account hold will then be able to continue using it as normal. You can open a new basic account in your name only to use while you are bankrupt.
If there is an outstanding overdraft on your joint account, you will not be able to take your name off it.
Your bankruptcy will protect you from the overdraft debt. However, because it is a joint and several debt, the other account holder will still be liable to pay 100% of the outstanding balance (not just 50%).
How long after going bankrupt can you get a current account again?
You will not be able to get a new current account until after you are discharged. Under normal circumstances this happens automatically after 12 months (1 year) from the date you went bankrupt.
That said, even after you are discharged, you will normally need to wait for your credit rating to start to repair before you can successfully apply for a current account.
The credit repair process takes time. As a rule of thumb you might have to wait a further year or two.
However, there should be no reason for you to be in a rush. Other than access to an overdraft facility, there is usually nothing a current account will give you that you don’t already have with your basic account.
Focus first on repairing your credit file. One way of doing this is to us a credit repair credit card. Once your score starts to improve, your chances of a bank accepting you for current account will greatly improve.
Written by James Falla
Share this post
Completely FREE advice
Confidential conversations
Expert help always at hand
We've helped 1,000s of people get back on track with their finances.
“Can’t recommend James Falla enough. He has helped me through a very tough and stressful time and taken a lot of stress and worry away from me through the whole bankruptcy process. Thank you”
Martin B
September 6, 2024
“I have been a financial advisor for 20 years. When I needed financial help, I needed to speak to someone that was empathetic, professional, and could answer my many questions. James is all of that and more. He has been patient, professional, empathetic, firm and diligent. He always responds to my phone calls and emails the same or next day. He has made what would have been the most stressful year of my life, relatively stress free.
James has been by my side for the last 18 months, and I feel I have gained a friend. I couldnt have done it without your help, so I am forever thankful.”
Dan P
August 8, 2024
“Thank you James for the outstanding Bankruptcy service. I didn’t have a clue how to do this & I recommend your service to anyone a professional cost efficient great service.
Today I was discharged from bankruptcy. At the beginning it was a nightmare but now I have a fresh start. Its amazing thank you so much, so appreciated.”
J Rudge
August 3, 2024
“The advice and support I have received from James Falla has been invaluable. I found James to be respectful and understanding. At no point did I feel judged on the situation that I had found myself in financially.
With the support of James I felt incredibly more at ease to move forward with my debt solution.
I would without hesitation, highly recommend his services to anyone looking for debt advice.”
Scott D
July 31, 2024
“James’s expertise and advice was invaluable. He always answered any queries promptly and made the whole bankruptcy process a lot easier than I had imagined. I highly recommend his services.”
Mark B
July 26, 2024
“James, you were simply fantastic. You guided me through the process perfectly. Your manner with me was impeccable and I could not have wanted more. From the very first meeting I made you aware of my condition which can affect my understanding and you took it upon yourself to make sure I understood the options that were available to me, but more importantly, which options were appropriate for me.
The feeling of relief that this chapter of worry is behind me is down, in the most part, to yourself – had you not been so approachable, I likely would not have felt comfortable discussing my situation with you. The services you offer, and more importantly you, have put at ease the most extended and worrisome years of my life. Thank you”
Dan N
July 9, 2024
“Hi James
Thanks again for your help. I know I may be hard work, but I really appreciate all your help. I’m not sure I could have survived without you (in the literal sense). The service you offer to those going through difficult times really is life changing.
Thanks again.
Dan”
Dan P
July 5, 2024
“This was a very smooth process. The company was very compassionate with my needs and very supportive”
Vickie G
June 20, 2024
“Had some really good debt advice from James Falla. He is really helpful. He personally went through my situation and gave me the best advice. really appreciated.”
A Lawson
June 15, 2024
“I used James’s service in 2020 when I declared bankruptcy. His help was great, especially during times when I didn’t know what I was supposed to do.
Now, I had to deal with the last part of the whole experience, removing the charge from my property. James was again, extremely helpful, guiding me in the right direction and suggesting the right things to say. The charge was removed and my final offer was much lower than what they wanted me to pay initially.
Thank you very much James! A true professional that I can’t recommend enough.”
MV Faur
June 10, 2024
“James, I cannot thank you enough for the hand holding and support you gave during the beginning, middle and end of the bankruptcy process. Without your assistance and support I would have literally gone mad stir crazy!!! As you are aware I will recommend your service to anyone in my position in the future.”
Doug A
June 6, 2024
“Very clear and concise information. Excellent communication. Happy with all aspects.”
Nathan B
June 4, 2024
“James Falla has been extremely helpful, with my application I did, for bankruptcy. He certainly did put my mind at rest, when I had questions, which I needed answering. This has certainly made the application a lot smoother, for me.”
Shelley T
May 23, 2024
“James Falla supported and guided me through one of the toughest times of my life. He gave me clear advice and his service meant that I could rest assured, knowing that my insolvency application was being handled with the utmost expertise and professionalism. I am now the other side of my bankruptcy with savings and well managed credit that is gradually repairing my credit rating. Contacting Wilmott Turner was absolutely the best decision I made at that time. Thank you James.”
Anton C
April 30, 2024
“I highly recommend Wilmott Turner Financial Services. James Falla has been amazing with total support, help and advice. From day one, he explained the process of my bankruptcy from start to finish and nothing was too much for him to help with. I am now discharged from my bankruptcy after 12 months and I’m overjoyed and stress free. I highly recommend anyone with financial distress to contact James.”
J Jones
April 18, 2024
“After first speaking to James Falla he has put my mind at ease and helped me thoroughly with the process of going bankrupt. The service he has provided me has been exceptional and I am very happy I have had his support and knowledge to help me with the whole process.”
Ben T
April 9, 2024
“Great advice and support during my bankruptcy. I will share your services with others. Thank you!”
AB Patrice
April 2, 2024
“James Falla was fantastic. From start to finish he explained everything very clearly. Can’t thank him enough for what he did.”
Hannah R
March 27, 2024
“James has been absolutely brilliant, he really knows his stuff and has helped me in finding the best debt solution for my own personal circumstances. I was in a very dark place before I found James, and he helped me see that there was hope and light at the end of the tunnel. He didn’t judge and doesn’t just read off a script! I don’t know where I would be now without him. A very heartfelt thank you and I would definitely recommend him.”
Natalie B
March 19, 2024
“James, I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your invaluable support and guidance throughout the process of resolving my complex financial situation.
I cannot emphasize enough how much your professionalism and friendliness meant to me during this challenging time. Your willingness to listen attentively to my concerns and provide prompt, thorough responses to my inquiries alleviated much of the stress I was experiencing.
Your openness and transparency throughout the process were greatly appreciated and helped me feel reassured every step of the way. I wholeheartedly recommend your services to anyone facing similar challenges. Your support has made a significant difference in my life.”
JB Mafa
March 13, 2024
“From my initial enquiry, looking for advice in a very difficult situation was made so easy by the expertise and knowledge of James Falla. James was always at the end of the phone to reassure me, answer my questions and offering advice, even at the weekends!
His support and guidance throughout the whole bankruptcy process has been invaluable and reduced any stress and anxieties and helped me sleep at night and not worry.
The fees are very fair for the level of support & advice provided, and a small price to pay to know you’ve done everything right. Thank you James! Sarah.”
Sarah M
March 11, 2024
“Hi James, Thank you for your advice. I’m at the end of my IPA agreement. I can’t thank you enough. Thank you.”
Paul B
March 4, 2024
“James Falla really helped me get through a very difficult time. He guided me through the process and was with me at every step. Personable and professional, I strongly recommend he and his services.”
Nav G
March 1, 2024
“I have received exceptional service from James Falla. His knowledge and guidance through a very stressful time has been exemplary. He has continued to provide advice and support throughout my insolvency period.
Without a doubt he has provided excellent value for money and I would very much recommend his services. I would not advise going through any of the available debt processes without his help.”
J Sharp
February 21, 2024
“I’m thankful for James Falla’s wonderful support through the bankruptcy process. I recommend his services to anyone in financial difficulties. Thanks.”
Joel Boah
February 20, 2024
“Hi James, I’m really so relieved about the result of your help with my bankruptcy. Now that I’ve had a short while for it to sink in, I know it really is going to change my life! Your absolute confidence and support throughout the whole procedure, carried out over just a few weeks was really great. I couldn’t have managed very well on my own and would definitely have got bogged down with it all. Your fee has been worth absolutely every penny.
Although it was obviously my mismanagement which caused all the problems, I’d arrived in a position which I couldn’t cope with and you’ve helped me totally deal with it.
Many thanks again! A fresh start as they say, which can happen at any age : )”
Godfrey
February 15, 2024
“Thank you to James Falla for your invaluable help in taking the stress away from a very difficult situation. Your help with my bankruptcy has been amazing and I appreciate everything you’ve done for me.”
Ian E
February 14, 2024
“James Falla has helped me tremendously through what has been one of the most daunting experiences of my life. He answered all my questions and offered reassurance when necessary.
For anyone who is facing or considering bankruptcy, I urge you to make the call to James. You will not regret doing so.”
Paul A
February 1, 2024
“Very pleased with the service and advice, would highly recommend. Makes and stressful experience manageable. Having James Falla to talk it all through with really helps.”
Elly O
January 22, 2024
“Hi James. Thanks again for all your help with my bankruptcy, you’ve been worth every penny and some!! I’d have been in a right pickle without your assistance. You’ve been so much help through this depressing time. 2 more weeks and I will be free of this bankruptcy and can start moving forward with my life. Thanks again mate 👍🏻”
Ben R
January 15, 2024
“Hi James, thanks very much for your message about my discharge from Bankruptcy, that really good news.
Paul T
January 5, 2024
“James Falla is a great guy who explained everything to me in a simple and easy to understand way. I was able to get in touch with him quickly when I had any concerns. Everything with my bankruptcy happened just as he had predicted. Absolutely great services from him and of course the company. Outstanding.”
Steven H
January 3, 2024
“James has been absolutely fantastic and helpful throughout the whole pross. He has been an absolute hero.”
Johnathan N
November 29, 2023
“James Falla was brilliant. He talked me through everything and made the whole bankruptcy process stress free and easy to understand. I’d highly recommend his service to anyone in need going forward in the future.”
Brian B
November 9, 2023
“Hello James. Thank you for the confirmation of discharge from bankruptcy, it feels good to have that weight off my mind. I’d like to thank you personally for making it a lot less scary than I imagined! Your service and down to earth manner was refreshing and dispelled any anxieties I had about the whole process. I have, and will continue to recommend you as a Financial Advisor if I hear of anyone in the same position as I was. I wish you all the best in the future, and if I need further assistance, you’ll be the first port of call. “
Gerry C
October 30, 2023
“Hi James, Hope you are well. Thank you so much for your help last year, I honestly couldn’t of done it without you. You solved all of our problems and made things a whole lot easier. I dread to think what our situation would be now if we hadn’t of gone through the bankruptcy process! Thanks again!”
Pamplin
October 25, 2023
“Fantastic service from start to finish. Most professional and helpful company I’ve ever dealt with. James Falla made the bankruptcy process feel easy and comfortable. Thank you for all your assistance.”
David E
October 19, 2023
“James Falla was really pleasant and friendly to talk to and there when needed. Any questions answered. I would definitely recommend his services.”
S Smallwood
October 9, 2023
What we can do
Assistance with going Bankrupt
- Application form completed correctly
- Preparation for Official Receiver interview
- Ongoing 12 month support
Self Employed Bankruptcy
- Business income and expenses forecast
- Bank account advice
- On-going support with 3 line accounts
Switch from IVA to Bankruptcy
- Help with cancelling IVA
- Support through bankruptcy process
- On-going support during bankruptcy
Support if Already Bankrupt
- Completion of PIQB questionnaire
- Preparation for OR interview
- Assistance with OR info requests