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Community bank account

Banking for not-for-profit organisations. Option of free online accounting software

On this page

Account Summary

Account details

Continue an application

Useful info

Ready to apply

An everyday account for charities, clubs and societies

Free banking if your turnover is up to 100k

Access free online accounting software with this business banking current account

24 months free banking for startup organisations (subject to status)

24/7 Digital Banking and Phone Banking

Bank anywhere with our mobile banking app

This current account is for not for profit limited companies registered at Companies House, clubs and societies, churches and places worship, registered and unregistered charities, charitable incorporated organisations (CIOs) and non-personal trusts. This account can use our Mobile Banking app. Want to see our other business current accounts? See the range

Royal Bank of Scotland Community account is available to account holders over 18 who have the right to be self employed in the UK. Your organisation’s turnover must be under £2m. You must have a Royal Bank of Scotland business bank account to use our mobile app. The Mobile App is available to Digital Banking customers with a UK or international mobile number in specific countries. Free banking is subject to status. FreeAgent is free subject to client retaining their Royal Bank of Scotland business banking current account.

Free accounting software? Yes please.

Managing your business finances doesn’t have to be costly or complicated.

As a Royal Bank of Scotland business current account holder, you can access FreeAgent’s online accounting software for free (subject to client retaining their Royal Bank of Scotland business current account). You’ll get the complete package, with benefits designed specifically for small businesses, including:

Invoices, expenses and bank accounts in one place

Time tracking

Tax Timeline

Features OpenClose

Visa debit card

Need to pay for business purchases in shops and online or withdraw cash? That’s where the Visa debit card comes in handy. Use Apple Pay and Google Pay™ for payments with your phone.

24/7 Digital Banking

Our Digital Banking service means you can access your business account, whenever it suits you.

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24/7 banking – in detail

Royal Bank of Scotland Digital Banking lets you carry our most of your day-to-day banking activities and view up to 7 years of transactions.

Alternatively, use Telephone Banking and speak with one of our UK based advisors. Our lines are open 24/7, 365 days a year.

What you should know

Digital Banking is available to Royal Bank of Scotland account holders. To make a payment using our Telephone Banking service you need to be fully enrolled for security purposes.

Mobile Banking app

Our Mobile Banking app is secure, easy-to-use and lets you do loads of useful business banking tasks when you’re out and about.

Mobile banking app details Close

Mobile banking app – in detail

It lets you view your accounts, check recent transactions and make payments.

What you should know

You must have a Royal Bank of Scotland business bank account to use our mobile app. The Mobile App is available to Digital Banking customers with a UK or international mobile number in specific countries.

Everyday support

Get text alerts, email alerts, manage Direct Debits and more.

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Everyday support – in detail

Our Business current account supports your day to day banking needs. You can set up Direct Debits for utility payments and Standing Orders to make regular payments to suppliers etc. You can have a chequebook if you need one and you can also set up text alerts.

What are text alerts?

Text alerts are a great way of keeping tabs on your account. You can get a text alert to let you know when your balance is about to go below a certain limit, or to let you know what your balance is at a specific time. You can set them up when you fill in the online application form or in our Mobile Banking app.

What you should know

Cash withdrawals and cheques have charges attached to them. Please read our Business Account Charges for full information
The Business current account does not pay interest on balances. You might also need a Deposit account if you are likely to hold spare funds. We can set up an automatic transfer to move money between accounts, to maximise your spare funds
Any balances over £85,000 are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme

Chequebook and paying in book

You can have a chequebook and a paying in book too (useful If you’re receiving cash or cheques).

Authorise signatories

Authorise up to four individuals as signatories on the account.

Benefits OpenClose

Managing cashflow is easy

Because you can access your account 24/7 online or through the app, you know exactly where you stand. You can see what’s gone out, what’s come in and what invoices have been paid.

Free banking for existing organisations

If you’re a not for profit organisation with an annual turnover that doesn’t go over £100,000, you could qualify for free banking. If after your first 18 months of operating, you have a turnover of over £100,000, you will automatically move on to our standard tariff.

Free banking details Close

Free banking – in detail

We offer free banking, subject to status, to not for profit organisations as long as your annual turnover across accounts doesn't go over £100,000.

What you should know

Our standard tariff will apply if your organisation’s annual credit turnover, across accounts, is more than £100,000.

'Free banking' means that the charges for the day-to-day running of your account (known in the Business Account Charges information as your 'service charge') will not apply. Charges for 'additional services' and 'unarranged borrowing' detailed in the Business Account charges information are not part of the free banking offer.

Free accounting software

This account gives you access to FreeAgent, which makes business bookkeeping really easy.

Accounting software in detail Close

Free accounting software in detail

Over 50,000 small businesses and freelancers use FreeAgent software

This software was the winner of the “Best Financial Services Product or Service” by ScotlandIS in April 2017. It lets you manage and maintain your business accounts, create and send invoices, track time, log expenses and forecast your tax bills.

It’s specifically designed for small businesses and freelancers. In a recent survey, 9 out of 10 customers said that using FreeAgent made them feel more relaxed about their business finances.

What you should know

The service is currently free to Royal Bank customers. To qualify for this access you need to agree to share your FreeAgent information with Royal Bank.

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Simple terms and charges information

Our Terms and Charges info is clear and simple. Interest is calculated daily and is charged quarterly.

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Charges - in detail

To find out more about the charges involved check out our charges pages:

Business account charges booklet (PDF, 550kb)

Summarised business account charges booklet (PDF, 81kb)

Useful info about this account

Can I get a Community account if my turnover is over £2m?

Can I use the Current Account Switch Service to move my not for profit account to RBS?

Do I have to have Digital Banking to use the Mobile Banking app?

Yes. To register for the mobile app, you'll need your 10-digit customer number, your 4-digit PIN, your Digital Banking password and your mobile phone number.

If you don’t have Digital Banking, registering is simple and only takes a few minutes. Visit our Digital Banking page to find out how. If you have a business debit card, you might get instant access to your accounts.

What do I need to bear in mind when applying as a church or religious organisation?

As a bank we define a church and a religious organisation as two different types of organisations. We define a church as being based in a religious building. Whereas a religious organisation may operate the same way and have the same functions of a church but do not operate in a religious building (perhaps in a rented space in a town hall or scout building). If you are a church, then there may be more questions that we may need to ask you and we’ll likely be in contact about your application.

What details are needed by Royal Bank of Scotland when applying for a Community current account?

You’ll need the personal details of all of the directors of the not for profits/clubs/societies (including their home addresses for the last 3 years). You’ll also need your business details, including your Company’s Registration Number (provided by Companies House) if you’re a limited company. All the details are in the "Ready to apply" section, which will help you to prepare.

Will I be charged later for FreeAgent?

What is FreeAgent?

FreeAgent is award-winning online accounting software specifically designed to meet the needs of small businesses, freelancers and accountants. FreeAgent helps customers take care of their business admin day-to-day - from managing expenses, running payroll and tracking time, through to creating and sending estimates and invoices to clients. Whether you are just getting started, or are already in business, FreeAgent could save you time and make it easier to manage your business finances.

How can I check my community account application status?

Use our application centre to:

continue your application

check the status of your account opening process

receive latest updates about your application

find out more about your main account and other accounts, including deposit accounts

Use the same details that you created when you applied for your business account to log in

If you haven’t already set up access to your online application centre, create a login

Switch to Royal Bank

The Current Account Switch Service will do all the work when it comes to switching, moving everything across from your old account all within 7 working days, including Direct Debits and standing orders. All you need to do is tell us the details of your old bank account and when you want the Switch to start.

Current Account Switch Guarantee (PDF, 60KB)

A Guide to Switching Current Accounts (PDF, 532KB)

How does the Switch Service work?

Apply now

Thanks for choosing our Community bank account. Let's get started.

Continue

Before you continue...

If you are looking to open a Community account in order to apply for the government-backed Bounce Back Loan (BBL) Scheme, please note that the Bounce Back Loan and Top-Up scheme is now closed.

For more information about coronavirus support

Are you...

An existing business customer

An existing personal customer

New to RBS

OK, so you're an existing customer. Is the bank account for...

A new business

An existing business

Great, please make sure you're eligible to apply

Your organisation's annual turnover is under £2m

You and any other account holders will be aged 18 or over

You will be a signatory on behalf of the organisation you're applying for

You or any other account holders are not currently declared as Bankrupt

Here's the information you'll need during the application...

Personal details

Full names (including middle names)
Personal addresses and date of entry to the address (if it’s less than three years, we’ll need previous address)
Date of birth and country/town of birth
Contact details (including contact numbers and email addresses)
Nationality (including details of any dual nationalities/citizenships)
Tax purpose residency details (which country are they resident for tax purposes)
Confirmation that applicants haven't been insolvent, bankrupt, sequestrated or involved in any court proceedings for debt, or made arrangements with creditors. (If any of these have happened to any applicants, we may need more information)

Organisation details

Trading and registered addresses, along with organisation contact details
Information about your organisation's activities, including income and expenditure, membership structure and number of members
Details of countries in which your organisation operates
Details about any countries you, or your organisation, are registered in for tax purposes

Your charity number

Charity Numbers are provided by the Charity Commission when you register a charity with them

Additional information we may require

We may require this additional information from you before we can progress your application, so please try to have it ready:

Governing Documents. These can be in the form of a constitution or articles of association
Overseas payment details. If your organisation sends money overseas, we will need info on the recipient and that includes how the money will be sent; approximate amounts sent; name of recipient and country
Bank statements. If your organisation is transferring from another bank, we will require copies of 3 months’ bank statements of your existing account

How to submit your ID online

To make it easier for you to provide us with your ID, you can do it online. We have a service, called DigiDocs that can verify your ID safely and securely. You just need to supply us with your UK mobile number and email.

Please take some time to review the important info

How your information might be used

It's important for you to understand how we use and share your information. Please read this short summary before you continue with your application.

Thanks! Looks like you’re all set and ready to begin

By starting your application, you confirm that you're giving us consent to run a credit check on you and any other people listed on your application.

The following page allows you to choose which type of account you wish to open. You can choose from a Business Current Account or a Loan Servicing Account. Please select the Loan Servicing account only if you have already applied for a loan and have chosen to open a Loan Servicing Account. This account can only be used for loan repayment purposes.

What if my business is based in England or Wales?

If your business will be based in England or Wales, please apply below or give us a call on 0345 600 2230.

Relay UK Service: 18001 0345 600 2230

For more information on accessibility, visit the Accessibility page.

Calls may be recorded for training and monitoring purposes. To see how much your call might cost, visit the call charge information page.

Do you have a relationship manager?

Yes

No or I'm not sure

Call your Relationship Manager

You should have a direct number for them. You can discuss applying for an additional business account. They can start the application for you and arrange to get the appropriate signatures.

When can I call?

Business and Relationship Managers are available 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.

No problem. We can still help.

For businesses in Scotland, please call us on 0345 600 2230.

What if my business is based in England or Wales?

If your business will be based in England or Wales, please download an additional account form or give us a call on 0345 307 0900.

Relay UK Service:

(Scotland): 18001 0345 600 2230

(England and Wales): 18001 0345 307 0900

For more information on accessibility, visit the Accessibility page.

Calls may be recorded for training and monitoring purposes.

To see how much your call might cost, visit the call charge information page.

Great, please make sure you're eligible to apply

Your organisation's annual turnover is under £2m

You and any other account holders will be aged 18 or over

You will be a signatory on behalf of the organisation you're applying for

You or any other account holders are not currently declared as Bankrupt

What information do I need during the application?

Personal details

Full names (including middle names)
Personal addresses and date of entry to the address (if it’s less than three years, we’ll need previous address)
Date of birth and country/town of birth
Contact details (including contact numbers and email addresses)
Nationality (including details of any dual nationalities/citizenships)
Tax purpose residency details (which country are they resident for tax purposes)
Confirmation that applicants haven't been insolvent, bankrupt, sequestrated or involved in any court proceedings for debt, or made arrangements with creditors. (If any of these have happened to any applicants, we may need more information)

Organisation details

Trading and registered addresses, along with organisation contact details
Information about your organisation's activities, including income and expenditure, membership structure and number of members
Details of countries in which your organisation operates
Details about any countries you, or your organisation, are registered in for tax purposes

Your charity number

Charity Numbers are provided by the Charity Commission when you register a charity with them

Additional information we may require

We may require this additional information from you before we can progress your application, so please try to have it ready:

Governing Documents. These can be in the form of a constitution or articles of association
Overseas payment details. If your organisation sends money overseas, we will need info on the recipient and that includes how the money will be sent; approximate amounts sent; name of recipient and country
Bank statements. If your organisation is transferring from another bank, we will require copies of 3 months’ bank statements of your existing account

How to submit your ID online

Please take some time to review the important info

How your information might be used

It's important for you to understand how we use and share your information. Please read this short summary before you continue with your application.

Thanks! Looks like you’re all set and ready to begin

By starting your application, you confirm that you're giving us consent to run a credit check on you and any other people listed on your application.

What if my business is based in England or Wales?

If your business will be based in England or Wales, please apply below or give us a call on 0345 600 2230.

Relay UK Service: 18001 0345 600 2230

For more information on accessibility, visit the Accessibility page.

Calls may be recorded for training and monitoring purposes. To see how much your call might cost, visit the call charge information page.

Great, please make sure you're eligible to apply

Your organisation's annual turnover is under £2m

You and any other account holders will be aged 18 or over

You will be a signatory on behalf of the organisation you're applying for

You or any other account holders are not currently declared as Bankrupt

What information do I need during the application?

Personal details

Full names (including middle names)
Personal addresses and date of entry to the address (if it’s less than three years, we’ll need previous address)
Date of birth and country/town of birth
Contact details (including contact numbers and email addresses)
Nationality (including details of any dual nationalities/citizenships)
Tax purpose residency details (which country are they resident for tax purposes)
Confirmation that applicants haven't been insolvent, bankrupt, sequestrated or involved in any court proceedings for debt, or made arrangements with creditors. (If any of these have happened to any applicants, we may need more information)

Organisation details

Trading and registered addresses, along with organisation contact details
Information about your organisation's activities, including income and expenditure, membership structure and number of members
Details of countries in which your organisation operates
Details about any countries you, or your organisation, are registered in for tax purposes

Your charity number

Charity Numbers are provided by the Charity Commission when you register a charity with them

Additional information we may require

We may require this additional information from you before we can progress your application, so please try to have it ready:

Governing Documents. These can be in the form of a constitution or articles of association
Overseas payment details. If your organisation sends money overseas, we will need info on the recipient and that includes how the money will be sent; approximate amounts sent; name of recipient and country
Bank statements. If your organisation is transferring from another bank, we will require copies of 3 months’ bank statements of your existing account

How to submit your ID online

Please take some time to review the important info

How your information might be used

It's important for you to understand how we use and share your information. Please read this short summary before you continue with your application.

Thanks! Looks like you’re all set and ready to begin

By starting your application, you confirm that you're giving us consent to run a credit check on you and any other people listed on your application.

What if my business is based in England and Wales?

If your business will be based in England or Wales, please apply with NatWest or give us a call on 0345 711 4477.

Relay UK Service:

18001 0345 711 4477 (England and Wales)

Mon to Fri 9am-5.30pm (excl. public holidays)

For more information on accessibility, visit the Accessibility page.

Calls may be recorded for training and monitoring purposes. To see how much your call might cost, visit the call charge information page.

Already started an application?

You can use the same details that you created when you applied for your community account. If you haven’t already set up access to your online application centre, you can create a login now

Additional support for your business

Social and Community Capital

We’re sure you’ll make a big positive impact, but sometimes it's difficult to get the finance you need to grow. We can offer support and alternative funding.

Get the finance you need to grow

Boost your business

Ready to take your business to the next level? Our Local Enterprise Managers will help boost your connections, your skills and your knowledge.

Boost your business today

Community bank account

An everyday account for charities, clubs and societies

Free accounting software? Yes please.

This account in detail…

Features OpenClose

Visa debit card

24/7 Digital Banking

Mobile Banking app

Everyday support

Chequebook and paying in book

Authorise signatories

Benefits OpenClose

Managing cashflow is easy

Free banking for existing organisations

Free accounting software

Charges OpenClose

Simple terms and charges information

Useful info about this account

Can I get a Community account if my turnover is over £2m?

Can I use the Current Account Switch Service to move my not for profit account to RBS?

Do I have to have Digital Banking to use the Mobile Banking app?

What do I need to bear in mind when applying as a church or religious organisation?

What details are needed by Royal Bank of Scotland when applying for a Community current account?

Will I be charged later for FreeAgent?

What is FreeAgent?

How can I check my community account application status?

Switch to Royal Bank

Apply now

Before you continue...

For more information about coronavirus support

Great, please make sure you're eligible to apply

Here's the information you'll need during the application...

Please take some time to review the important info

How your information might be used

Thanks! Looks like you’re all set and ready to begin

Call your Relationship Manager

No problem. We can still help.

Great, please make sure you're eligible to apply

What information do I need during the application?

Please take some time to review the important info

How your information might be used

Thanks! Looks like you’re all set and ready to begin

Great, please make sure you're eligible to apply

What information do I need during the application?

Please take some time to review the important info

How your information might be used

Thanks! Looks like you’re all set and ready to begin

Already started an application?

Additional support for your business

Social and Community Capital

Boost your business

Something else we can help you with?