Allows you to receive money and pay bills – but won’t let you overdraw. Can be a stepping stone to a full current account. Cash card, Direct Debits.

Some banks also offer a cheque book, debit card and payment by standing order. Others offer a linked savings account to help you budget.

People who want to make sure they stay in credit.

People who might not get through the banks’ credit checks to open a current account.

Most people – except those who only need the basic banking services available from an introductory account.

The most common type of bank account.

See the list on pages 8–9 to find out which banks and building societies offer this type of account and what they call them.

It is planned that most of the introductory accounts listed in the table will allow for access at post offices from April 2003. Any high-street bank, and some building societies. Some other banks don’t have branches – you deal with them by post, telephone or internet.

Any high-street bank, and some building societies.

Some other banks don’t have branches – you deal with them by post, telephone or internet.

Cash machines – how many near you can you use free of charge?

Branches – do you need one near where you live or work?

Does the account give you everything you need to pay your bills easily? All accounts offer Direct Debits. Some also offer standing orders and a debit card.

Cash machines – how many can you use free of charge?

Branches – do you need one near where you live or work? Do you need an account that offers access at post offices.

Overdrafts – avoid banks that charge fees, on top of interest.

Interest you get on money in your account – some banks and building societies pay much higher rates than others.