Charity Bank Accounts

Community Bank Accounts: A guide for charities and not-for-profit organisations

Choosing the right bank account is an important step for charities, community groups and social enterprises. Many UK banks offer specialised accounts tailored to the needs of not-for-profit organisations, providing features such as free day-to-day banking, ethical investment policies and accessibility for group signatories.

Below is an overview of banks offering dedicated community accounts, plus helpful tips for setting one up.

 

Banks with dedicated community accounts

The Co-operative Bank

  • Account: Community Directplus
  • Designed for: Charities, CICs, co-operatives, and credit unions
  • Key features: Free everyday banking, no monthly service charge, ethical banking values

 

NatWest

  • Account: Community Bank Account
  • Designed for: Clubs and societies
  • Key features: Free banking for 18 months if income is under £100,000 annually

 

CAF Bank (Charities Aid Foundation)

  • Account: CAF Cash Account
  • Designed for: Charities and social purpose organisations
  • Key features: Online banking, deposit cash/cheques via Post Office and HSBC/RBS branches

 

Metro Bank

  • Account: Community Current Account
  • Designed for: Charities, clubs, and societies
  • Key features: Access via online, in-store, phone, and app

 

Other Banks with Relevant Accounts

HSBC

  • Account: Charitable Bank Account
  • For: Eligible organisations under Charities Act 2011
  • Segment: Small Business/Business Banking

 

Lloyds Bank

  • Account: Community Account
  • For: Clubs, societies, and small charities

 

Barclays

  • Account: Charity and Impact Account
  • For: Registered charities and non-profits

 

Bank of Scotland

  • Accounts: Community Account for Clubs & Societies and Community Account for Charities

 

Charity Bank

  • Services: Savings and loan bank
  • Focus: Lending to UK charities, social enterprises and impact-focused organisations

 

Triodos Bank

  • Services: Current accounts, loans, savings, and investments
  • Focus: Ethical and sustainable finance for charities and social ventures

 

Unity Trust Bank

  • Designed for: Not-for-profit organisations
  • Features: Range of current and deposit accounts, ethical investment policies

 

 

Tips for Opening a Community Bank Account

 

1.  Prepare the right documents

Before applying, gather key information:

  • Organisation name, address and contact details
  • Registration number (if applicable)
  • Proof of charitable or social purpose
  • Governing documents (e.g., constitution or rules)
  • Minutes confirming the appointment of authorised signatories

 

2.  Speak to the right department

Contact the bank’s business or charity banking team directly. These accounts are not usually available to open online and may require an appointment.

 

3.  Think about your needs

Consider what your organisation requires:

  • Online banking access
  • Mobile app functionality
  • Cheque or cash handling
  • Multiple signatories
  • Ethical or faith-aligned banking options

 

4.  Compare your options

Each bank offers different features. Review terms carefully to find the best match for your group’s size, values and financial activity.

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