Personal
Current accounts
Everyday Bank Account

Our Select account

Open our everyday bank account

Switch to a Select account and you could get £150, plus access to a 12 month fixed bonus rate if you open a Digital Regular Saver.

To apply, you need to be 18+ and a UK resident. Offer T&Cs and restrictions apply.

On this page

Switch offer Open in new window

About this account Open in new window

Mobile app features Open in new window

How to apply online Open in new window

Frequently asked questions Open in new window

Ready to apply Open in new window

The switch worth making

Switch to Royal Bank and you could get £150 and access to a 12 month fixed bonus rate if you open a Digital Regular Saver account.

Offer available to new and existing customers who haven't previously received a switch offer and did not hold a Royal Bank current account or savings account as of 17 February 2026.

How to get £150

1. Open a current account and switch to us

Apply for a Select or Reward account and request to switch an account with another bank to us using the Current Account Switch Service by 28 May 2026.
Your switch must be completed by 16 June 2026.

2. Within 60 days of switching

Pay in £1,250 - This can be made of multiple payments and must remain in the account for 24 hours.
Log in to our mobile app - This can be done on any device that supports the Royal Bank mobile banking app.

3. You're all set

When you've met these conditions, we'll pay £150 into your eligible account within 30 days.

Open in new window

How to unlock our bonus rate

Once you've opened your current account, you must open a Digital Regular Saver by 16 June 2026. To be eligible for the bonus rate, you need to complete your switch to us.

7% AER
This includes 5.25% / 5.13% AER/Gross p.a. (variable) on balances up to £5k plus a conditional bonus of 1.75% AER (fixed) for 12 months. Interest paid monthly.
1.00% AER/Gross p.a. (variable) on balances over £5,000.

There’s no need to wait for your £150 incentive to be paid.

Why choose a Digital Regular Saver?

Save between £1 and £150 each month - you're in control.
Instant access to your savings whenever you need them.
Perfect for building regular savings habits, whether you're starting small or levelling up your savings goals.

Switch offer T&Cs

Switch Offer T&Cs (PDF, 57KB)

Digital Regular Saver Switch Offer Information Sheet (PDF, 3.41MB)

Current Account Switch Guarantee (PDF, 39KB)

A Guide to Switching Current Accounts (PDF, 3MB)

Information Message

Specific account eligibility criteria & conditions apply. Monthly account fees may apply. Offer T&Cs and restrictions apply. You are not eligible for this offer if you're switching a current account from NatWest Group (NatWest or Ulster Bank NI). Joint accounts are not eligible for this offer. This offer may be changed, replaced, or withdrawn at any time.

2026 5-star Moneyfacts and Defaqto logos

Why choose our basic bank account?

This bank account is free of a monthly fee.

5-star rated by Moneyfacts and Defaqto for 2026.

Manage your account whenever and wherever you need to with our easy-to-use mobile banking app.

Pay however you like with Apple Pay, Google Pay™ or Contactless Debit Card. Limits apply.

Arranged overdrafts are available too. Subject to eligibility. For more information, see our Overdraft details section below.

A simple bank account that gives you more

Our basic bank account is free from a monthly fee and can be opened online. The Select account, and all of our bank accounts, come with some little extras which can help you save, budget and take stock of your finances.

Mobile banking screen showing budgeting activity

Budget better, spend less

Spending will put your transactions in to categories, giving you a detailed view of where your money is going.

Available to customers aged 16+ who hold a Personal or Premier current account.

Information Message

Take a closer look at how spending works Open in new window

Mobile banking screen for viewing Credit Score

Know your score

With our mobile app you can keep up to date with your credit score for free.

Available to customers aged 18+, with a UK address and is provided by TransUnion.

Information Message

Take a look at how you can check your score Open in new window

Mobile banking screen for Open Banking

View your accounts with other banks

View balances and transactions on selected accounts with participating UK banks. All your money on one screen.

You need to be registered for online banking with your other banks.

Information Message

Take stock of your accounts with open banking today Open in new window

Explore your overdraft options

An overdraft is a way of borrowing money from us via your current account and is repayable on demand. If you don't repay what is owed, you could harm your credit score and borrowing capability.

How do overdrafts work?

There are two different types of overdraft:

An arranged overdraft, which allows you to go overdrawn up to an agreed limit. This is the type of overdraft you could apply for on our Select standard bank account. During your application for an arranged overdraft, we'll run a full credit check to determine how much we can offer you.
An unarranged overdraft. This is when you spend more money than you have in your current account without already having an arranged overdraft, or when you exceed your current arranged overdraft limit.

We charge interest on both types of overdraft. Going in to an unarranged overdraft limit can lead to payments being rejected.

More about overdrafts.

How much does an overdraft cost?

How much does my overdraft cost in pounds and pence?

This account offers an overdraft facility (subject to eligibility). You can check if you're likely to be accepted for an overdraft using our eligibility tool.

As an example, the interest cost of using a £500 arranged overdraft is:

Time Period	7 days	30 days	60 days
Interest Cost	£3.24	£13.87	£28.13

This is a specific illustrative example representing the interest cost of using a £500 arranged overdraft over periods of 7, 30 and 60 days.

Looking to understand the costs of an overdraft of more or less than £500 over different periods of time? Use our handy cost calculator.

If you don't pay it back, it could have an impact on your credit score.

How does our overdraft compare?

A good way to compare the costs of borrowing products is by using the APR, which shows the cost of borrowing over a year.

Representative Example: Effective Annual Rate: 39.49% EAR (variable). Representative APR: 39.49% APR (variable). Assumed credit limit: £1,200.

How to open a bank account online

Apply online

During the application we'll ask for information about you such as your address, job etc. So have these ready.

Provide your ID

You'll need to provide proof of your ID and address. You might be able to do this online, look out for an email from us.

Check your details

We'll check we have everything we need to open your account. Look out for your new debit card in the post.

Your account is open

Start using your new account. Log in to Digital banking and download our mobile app to bank on the go.

Everyday current account – Frequently asked questions

What is a personal current account?

A personal current account is a type of bank account people use for their day-to-day personal banking. It allows you to keep your money in a secure place and lets you receive money, like from an employer.

You can also transfer money out, for example if you were buying something you need. You can also use an account like this to set up direct debits for recurring payments you make for things like rent and energy bills.

What do I need to open a bank account?

To open a bank account with the Royal Bank you’ll need to tell us your full name, home address and contact details. We'll also ask about your nationality and tax residency status (which country you pay tax in). If you’re looking for an overdraft, we’ll also ask about your finances and your monthly take home pay.

You will also need to show us ID, which could be a drivers license or passport, as well as proof of address - which could be a UK utility bill or council tax bill.

Take a look at the types of ID and proof of address we will accept

Will I get an instant decision when I apply for a bank account online?

Yes, after you’ve applied for a bank account with us you'll get an instant decision. But, if we need more details from you, then it can take 3 to 5 days for your account to be up and running.

How do I get additional support with my banking?

Banking My Way is a free service that allows you to record information about the support or adjustments you need to make banking easier. You can also let us know any additional support you may need to ensure all of our colleagues are aware of this. The information will be shared on our internal systems and therefore you will not need to repeat these requirements every time you interact with us.

Once your account is open, you can record this through Digital Banking or with our colleagues in branches or over the phone.

Learn more about Banking My Way

Get ready to apply

Please take your time to read the product information and make sure this Select account is right for you.

Before you apply, we need to check you're happy with a few things. And ask you a few questions up front. Then we can make your application as quick and simple as it can be.

First things first. You can apply if you:

are aged 18 or over and a UK resident

Now please take a look at the important legal info

If you carry on applying, it means you're happy with what's in these documents, including the FSCS information sheet. And happy to view your statements in Digital Banking - not posted. Please take some time to review, print and/or save the important information.

Your Current Account Terms (28 pages)

All kinds of general info about our current accounts. Including details about the Select Account.

Download PDF (162 KB)

FSCS Information Sheet and Exclusions List (2 pages)

Very important information about how your money is protected. Just in case.

Download PDF (40 KB)

Fee Information Document (20 pages)

How much our charges will be. From taking cash out abroad to an unarranged overdraft.

Download PDF (133 KB)

What You Need To Know (2 pages)

Important basic info about the bank. For example, who regulates us and how to complain (hopefully you won't need that bit).

Download PDF (45 KB)

Switch & Save Offer Terms (2 pages)

Take a look at the switch terms and conditions to see how to get our Switch offer.

Download PDF (57 KB)

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.

As part of the checks that we will complete to verify your identity, we’ll take an image of your face so that it can be compared with your photo ID and this biometric data is captured.

All okay? Apply for a bank account online today.

To speed up your application for our Select account, we need to do a few final checks with you. They'll only take a minute.

Continue

Do we already know you?

If you have a current account, credit card, loan or savings account with Royal Bank please let us know.

Please choose an option below to continue

I'm a completely new customer (with no existing bank account with Royal Bank)

I'm an existing customer (or I used to be a Royal Bank customer)

What would you like to do today?

Please choose an option below to continue

Open a sole Select account

Open a joint Select account

Do you have a passport or driving licence?

You can use a full or provisional UK driving licence. We also accept ID cards and driving licences from EU or EEA countries. If you don’t have any of these, you can still setup your account online but will need to visit a branch or post us your info to activate it.

Please choose an option below to continue

Yes

No, I don’t have any of these

You're all set

Your application will be completely online, and you won't need to post us any information or visit a branch.

Tell us a bit about yourself and we'll set up your account.
Our partner Mitek will then check your identity by matching you to your Photo ID. Your Photo ID must be a Passport, UK or EU/EEA Driving Licence or an EU/EEA National ID card. We might also ask for a valid proof of address. You'll need a device with a camera to upload these. If you don't have your ID to hand you can finish this step later.
Once they've confirmed your identity we'll activate your account.

Please note, a partial switch does not qualify for any switch incentives we may offer.

Tell us about yourself

We’ll ask you some questions to get your account set up.

Reserve your account

Once you’re done we’ll reserve your account and give you a reference number.

Visit a branch or post your ID to us

To activate your account you’ll either need to pop into a branch with your reference number and ID or send them to us by post.

Find out what type of ID we accept

Here's what to do next

We’ve made a few changes to how we open joint bank accounts.

The button below takes you to a dedicated page explaining exactly what you need to open your account.

In summary:

You create a joint account by adding the second applicant to an existing account.
You can either add the second applicant to an existing account, or if you’d like a completely new account, one of you can open a new account and then add the second applicant once it’s open.

Joint accounts opening

Do you have our app on a mobile device?

You can apply using either the mobile app or Digital Banking. The mobile app is easier and quicker as we can prefill some of your information.

Please choose an option below to continue

Yes

No, but I can download it

Here's a few steps to get started

If you're already using a device with the Royal Bank app, select the 'Start application' button below.

You will need the most up to date version of the app, to make changes to your account.

To open a new account:

Once logged in to the app, choose 'Apply' and then current accounts.
Then choose what type of account you would like to open.

To change your account type or switch into your existing account:

Once logged in, click into the account you wish to change or switch.
Choose either the 'Change my account type' or 'Switch my account' option.

Can't scan the QR code?

Start your application

Do you have RBS Digital Banking?

Please choose an option below to continue

Yes

Yes, but I need to reset my information.

Enter your customer number or 16-digit card number to get started.
You'll then need to enter your Digital Banking pin and password.
Once you're logged in follow the below

To open a new account:

Select 'Current accounts' from 'Our Products'.
Choose the account you want to apply for and complete your application.

To change to a different account type or to switch into your existing account:

Choose the account you wish to change or switch, click 'Account details'. Then choose either the 'Switch to us form' or review the section 'Want to change to a different type of current account?' to begin your application.

Let’s get you signed up for Digital Banking

You’ll need to sign up for Digital Banking with us in order to apply for a Select account. The good news is that it normally takes only 5 minutes and all you’ll need is your sort code, account number and your Royal Bank Debit Card, if you have one.

How to register for Digital Banking

Head to 'Register for Digital Banking'.
Enter your personal details. We’ll need details including your name, date of birth, sort code and account number.
We’ll show you your customer number on screen (you're making good progress at this point). Make a note of it as you’ll need it when you log in, in the future. If we don't need anything else from you you'll skip straight to step 7, but you may need to go to step 4, don't worry we'll let you know on screen.
We'll then send you an activation code. We'll send you your activation code in a text message. Or if we don’t have your phone number, we’ll send it through the post.
Go to the Royal Bank of Scotland website and select ‘Log in’ in the top right-hand corner, have your activation code to hand.
On the log in page, type in your customer number and activation code.
Now you need to choose a password and PIN and commit them to memory. The PIN should be four digits long and your password can be between six and twenty characters, and contain both letters and numbers.
Finished. Now you can manage your finances anywhere you can get online.

Once you’ve registered, select ‘Next’ to log in and apply for a Select account.

I am now signed up

Log in to Royal Bank Digital Banking

Enter your customer number or 16-digit card number to get started.
You'll then need to enter your Digital Banking pin and password.
Once you're logged in follow the below

To open a new account:

Select 'Current accounts' from 'Our Products'.
Choose the account you want to apply for and complete your application.

To change to a different account type or to switch into your existing account:

Choose the account you wish to change or switch, click 'Account details'. Then choose either the 'Switch to us form' or review the section 'Want to change to a different type of current account?' to begin your application.

Forgotten your Digital Banking Details?

If you've forgotten your log in details, don't worry, select 'Reset my Digital Banking' for further instructions.

Reset Digital Banking details

How to download and apply via the app

First, download the app:

On your mobile or tablet, open the camera and point your device at the QR code.
Follow the link that pops up to download the app.
Use your details to log in and follow the below.

To open a new account:

Once logged in to the app, choose 'Apply' and then current accounts.
Then choose what type of account you would like to open.

To change to a different account type or to switch into your existing account:

Click into the account you wish to change or switch, then select 'Change my account type' or 'Switch my account' to begin your application.

Can't scan the QR code?

Available on selected devices.

Download app

Ways to take control of your money

Get a financial health check

Review your finances with our free financial health check. Fill in a few details and get useful hints and tips.

Check your financial health today Open in new window

Learn how to manage your money

It can be tricky to know where to begin when it comes to saving money. But our quick guide can help point you in the right direction.

Take a look at our managing money tips Open in new window

Get better at budgeting

Setting yourself budgets is a brilliant way to get your spending under control. In a few simple steps you could be saving money in no time.

Get to grips with budgeting Open in new window

Open our everyday bank account

The switch worth making

How to get £150

How to unlock our bonus rate

Why choose our basic bank account?

A simple bank account that gives you more

Budget better, spend less

Know your score

View your accounts with other banks

Explore your overdraft options

How do overdrafts work?

How much does an overdraft cost?

How to open a bank account online

Apply online

Provide your ID

Check your details

Your account is open

Everyday current account – Frequently asked questions

What is a personal current account?

What do I need to open a bank account?

Will I get an instant decision when I apply for a bank account online?

How do I get additional support with my banking?

Get ready to apply

First things first. You can apply if you:

Now please take a look at the important legal info

Your Current Account Terms (28 pages)

FSCS Information Sheet and Exclusions List (2 pages)

Fee Information Document (20 pages)

What You Need To Know (2 pages)

Switch & Save Offer Terms (2 pages)

How your information might be used

All okay? Apply for a bank account online today.

You're all set

Ok. Let’s get started

Here's what to do next

Here's a few steps to get started

Log in to Digital Banking

Let’s get you signed up for Digital Banking

How to register for Digital Banking

Log in to Royal Bank Digital Banking

Forgotten your Digital Banking Details?

How to download and apply via the app

Ways to take control of your money

Get a financial health check

Learn how to manage your money

Get better at budgeting