Website of the UK government

Bank and building society accounts 

When benefits and pensions are paid by Direct Payment they are paid directly into a bank or building society account.

Advantages of using a bank/building society account

• Choice – using a bank or building society offers the flexibility of withdrawing money from a variety of places when needed. This includes a wide range of banks and cash machines, and many high street bank accounts are accessible at the Post Office®
• Convenience – paying benefits and any other money (such as wages, occupational pensions or personal cheques) into one convenient account helps keep control of finances and budgets more effectively
• Discounts – paying bills by direct debit means customers can make the most of discounts offered by some utility companies such as gas and electricity suppliers
• Peace of mind – a fast and easy one-off set up to pay regular bills by direct debit means never having to worry about missing a payment again
• Security – money is kept in a safe place, offering an easy and secure way of managing finances
• Being job ready – many employers will want to pay wages directly into a bank account

Post Office Card Account

The current Post Office card account contract ends in March 2010. There will be a new account available that will include similar features to the Post Office card account.

What if someone else collects your benefit?

If you need help collecting your benefit or pension payment you can arrange for someone else to do it for you.

• Nominating a helper to collect benefits or a pension for you (over 50s section)
• More information and advice for disabled people (disabled people section)

More useful links

• How to find out if you qualify for benefits
• How to claim benefit