Blog

chevron

Banking

chevron

How to open bank account with RBS

FEATURED ARTICLE

How to open bank account with RBS

Profile image of blog author: Antonio Marino

Antonio Marino

August 7, 2023 2 min read

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • 1. Choose Account

  • 2. Apply Online

  • 3. Verification

  • 4. Add Funds

  • 5. Get Going

Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) is one of the oldest and largest banks in the UK, with a history dating back to 1727.

Whether you are looking for a simple way to manage your money or to earn rewards for your spending RBS has an account for you.

Opening a bank account with RBS can be quick and you may want to take advantage of their switch offer, which gives you £200 when you switch your main account to RBS by 30 September 2023.

Here’s how to open a bank account with RBS in a few simple steps.

1. Choose Account

You can compare the features and benefits of different RBS accounts here. There are 2 main current accounts:

  • Select account
    • Mobile app
    • Use Apple Pay, Google Pay™ or Contactless
    • Arranged overdraft
  • Rewards account (£2/mo)
    • 1% rewards on selected partner retailers
    • Redeem additional rewards
    • £4 rewards when you set up 2 Direct Debits*

2. Apply Online

We recommend applying online for a smoother and more comfortable experience, but you may also apply at the branch. You will need to provide some personal and financial information:

  • full name
  • Address
  • date of birth
  • income
  • expenses.

You will also agree to undergo a credit check and fraud prevention check.

3. Verification

Next, upload proof of identity:

  • Passport
  • driving licence
  • national identity card

and proof of address from the last three months

  • utility bill
  • bank statement
  • council tax bill

4. Add Funds

Fund your account by transfer or deposit. If you want to switch your main account to RBS and get £200, you will need to use the Current Account Switch Service (CASS), which will move all your payments and balance within seven working days.

5. Get Going

Start using your new bank account with RBS! Your debit card, PIN and online banking details will arrive in the post within a few days. In the meantime, you can use the app to check your balance, make payments and set up alerts on the go.

Emma can boost the way you manage your RBS bank account by providing features that their app does not offer, such as tracking subscriptions, leading budgeting tools, visual analytics and personal savings advice.

Setting a budget can help you reduce your monthly spending. Emma also has a marketplace where you can access a rent reporting tool to build your credit history and a pension combinator tool.

Using the Emma app alongside the RBS app can provide you with a more comprehensive view of your money and help you make better financial decisions.

Download on the App Store buttonDownload on the App Store buttonDownload on the App Store buttonDownload on the App Store button

Join 3 million happy customers

We are on a misssion to improve everyone's financial wellbeing.

Download on the App Store button
Get it on Google Play Store button
Emma logo
Facebook logoTiktok logoTwitter / X logoInstagram logo

© 2026 Emma Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

Emma is registered and incorporated in England and Wales.

Emma Technologies Ltd (Company Registration Number 10578464). Registered office: Verse Building, 1st Floor, 18 Brunswick Place, London, N1 6DZ, United Kingdom.

Emma Technologies Ltd is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2017 (FRN 794952). Emma Technologies Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 1042167) for investment services and consumer credit activities, including credit broking and credit information services. Emma Technologies Ltd acts as a credit broker, not a lender, and may receive a commission from lenders for introducing you to them.

Payment and e-money services (Non MIFID related products) are provided by The Currency Cloud Limited. Registered in England No. 06323311. Registered Office: 1 Sheldon Square, London, W2 6TT, United Kingdom. The Currency Cloud Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 for the issuing of electronic money (FRN: 900199).

Data Protection Registration Number: ZA241546.

All testimonials, reviews, opinions or case studies presented on our website may not be indicative of all customers. Results may vary and customers agree to proceed at their own risk.