If you’re based in the United Kingdom, you can apply as a self-employed or a freelancer, using your personal bank account or your business bank account.
Apply using your personal bank account
If you wish to have your funds deposited into your personal bank account, you will need to provide a proof of ID in your personal name, and a proof of banking that can be either:
- A full-page bank statement under your personal name.
- A deposit form - this is an official document from your bank that must be stamped, dated not longer than 6 months, and signed by the bank.
- Void cheque issued by the bank - the name of the account holder, account number, and name of the financial institution or logo need to be printed (not handwritten).
Example: If John Smith has a bank account in John Smith’s name, they should provide a bank statement in that exact name which is John Smith.
Apply using your business bank account
If you wish to have your funds deposited into your business bank account, you will need to provide a proof of ID in your personal name.
Additionally, to verify your business, you’ll need to provide the following business details:
- Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) - This is your 10-digit tax number which can be found on your HMRC letter and should match exactly the one on the HMRC document.
- Trading name - Add it exactly as it displayed on your bank statement.
- Business address - The address your business is registered under.
- Email address and telephone number - The contact details connected to your company.
- A recent letter from the HMRC or your most recent self-assessment form - This must dated within the past tax registration year, and must include the UTR number, and legal entity name.
Example: If John Smith is trading as John’s Salon and their business bank account is in the name of John’s Salon, then they should make sure their bank statement shows their personal name. If their bank statement does not show their personal name, then they should request a bank letter from their bank, establishing a clear connection between the person and the business bank account.
To ensure the successful verification of your account, click here to explore the detailed guidelines outlining the necessary requirements for submitting your proof of banking.
