You cannot open a Post Office savings account entirely online

The Post Office does not offer a fully online account opening process. You must visit a Post Office branch in person at least once to complete the account setup, even if you later manage the account online. This is a regulatory requirement — the Post Office must verify your identity face-to-face before creating the account.

What you can do online is research account types, check branch locations, and sometimes pre-fill forms before you arrive. But the actual account creation happens at the counter with a staff member who will check your ID and take your initial deposit.

Key Takeaways

  • Post Office savings accounts require an in-person visit to a branch; no fully online opening exists.
  • You will need a valid ID (passport, driving licence, or national ID card) and your initial deposit when you visit.
  • The Post Office offers several savings account types with different interest rates and withdrawal rules, so compare them before you go.
  • Once the account is open, you can manage it online through the Post Office website or by phone, but opening it must happen at a branch.

What you need to bring to the Post Office branch

Bring one form of valid photographic ID. The Post Office accepts a UK passport, a UK driving licence, or a national ID card. If you do not have any of these, ask your local branch what alternative documents they will accept — some branches may take a combination of documents like a birth certificate plus a utility bill, but this varies by location.

Bring your initial deposit in cash or by debit card. Most Post Office savings accounts require a minimum opening deposit, which ranges from £1 to £500 depending on the account type. Check the specific account details on the Post Office website before you visit so you know exactly how much to bring.

Bring proof of your current address if your ID does not show it. A recent utility bill, council tax letter, or bank statement dated within the last three months will work. The Post Office needs this to verify where you live.

The types of Post Office savings accounts available

The Post Office offers several savings account structures, and the one you choose affects how much interest you earn and when you can withdraw money. straightforward Access accounts let you withdraw money whenever you want with no notice period, but they typically pay lower interest rates. Notice accounts require you to give notice (usually 30 or 60 days) before you withdraw, and they pay higher interest in return. Fixed-rate bonds lock your money away for a set period — usually one to five years — and pay a fixed interest rate that does not change, but you cannot access the money early without a penalty.

Interest rates change regularly, so check the Post Office website or ask at your branch for the current rates on each account type. The rate you are offered may also depend on how much you deposit and how long you commit to leaving the money there.

How to find your nearest Post Office branch

Use the Post Office branch finder on the official Post Office website. Enter your postcode and it will show you all branches within a set distance, their opening hours, and which services they offer. Not every Post Office offers savings accounts — some smaller branches only handle parcels and basic services — so check that "savings accounts" is listed before you travel.

Many Post Offices are inside supermarkets or other retailers, so you may already have one nearby. Opening hours vary widely, so check before you go. Some branches close for lunch or have limited weekend hours.

What happens when you arrive at the branch

Tell the staff member you want to open a savings account. They will ask you which type of account you want (straightforward Access, Notice, or Fixed-rate Bond) and confirm the interest rate and terms. They will check your ID and proof of address, and they will take your initial deposit. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

You will receive a passbook or account details sheet with your account number, sort code, and other information you need to manage the account. Keep this safe — you will need it to set up online access or to make transfers later. Some Post Offices now issue a card instead of a passbook, so ask what format you will receive.

Setting up online access after you open the account

Once your account is open, you can register for online access through the Post Office website. You will need your account number and sort code (from your passbook or details sheet) and a password you create. Online access lets you check your balance, view transactions, and set up standing orders or transfers to other accounts.

You cannot deposit money online — deposits must be made at a Post Office branch, by standing order from another account, or by cheque. Withdrawals can be made at any Post Office branch or by transfer to another bank account if you set that up online.

Alternatives if you want a fully online savings account

If you need to open a savings account entirely online without visiting a branch, you will need to use a bank or building society instead of the Post Office. Most high street banks and online-only banks offer savings accounts that you can open through their website or app, with identity verification done through video call or by uploading documents.

The Post Office savings accounts are often competitive on interest rates, especially for fixed-rate bonds, so it is worth the branch visit if you have time. But if you cannot visit a branch, a bank or building society savings account will give you the fully online experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else open a Post Office savings account on my behalf?

No. You must be present in person with your own ID. The Post Office cannot open an account for someone else, even with written permission. If you are unable to visit a branch yourself, you will need to use a different bank that offers online account opening.

What if I do not have a UK passport or driving licence?

Ask your local Post Office what documents they will accept. Some branches accept a combination of documents like a birth certificate, national insurance letter, and utility bill. The rules vary slightly by branch, so phone ahead before you visit.

Can I open a joint savings account at the Post Office?

Yes. Both account holders must visit the branch together with their own ID and proof of address. You will both need to sign the account paperwork. Joint accounts work the same way as individual accounts once they are open.

How long does it take to open a Post Office savings account?

The in-branch process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Your account is active when ready, and you can start using it the same day. Online access may take a few hours to set up after you register.

What happens if I lose my passbook?

Contact your local Post Office branch and ask for a replacement. They will issue a new passbook with the same account number. You can also manage your account online or by phone without the passbook once you have registered for those services.