Are you thinking about switching banks or opening your first bank account in the UK? Then Starling Bank might be an option you want to consider exploring. 

Widely known for its mobile app and innovative features, it's becoming increasingly popular with residents in the UK.

This post will share all the details you need to successfully open your Starling bank account and more. 

Benefits of opening an account with Starling

Being a fully digital bank, Starling adopted a mobile app operational approach which means it runs like Revolut, Monzo, Ohentpay and other financial services. 

However, a major difference is that Starling is a fully licensed digital bank.  Here are some other ways Starling makes the right banking option;

• Easy account opening: Unlike traditional banks that require you to come to a physical branch or send forms via post, you only need your mobile device to open a current or savings account.
• Direct debits: Set up automatic payments for your recurring bills directly on the app
• The same level of security: Since it's a licensed bank, you get the same security features as you would on a traditional account. 
• Intuitive mobile app: Most banking apps can be outdated, clunky and not very intuitive. Since Starling channels all its resources to the mobile app, it’s more user-friendly than its counterparts. 
• Transparent fees: Starling Bank has no monthly account maintenance charges like other banks and a transparent 
• Spending insights: With a Starling account, you get insights into your spending behaviours, patterns and more to help improve your budgets.

Who can open a Starling account?

To open a Starling account, you'll need to meet a few basic eligibility requirements. These include; 

• Be at least 16 years or older (18 years or older for a business account).
• Be a resident of the UK.
• A valid government-issued ID card like a passport or driver’s license. This will be used for your account verification.
• A smartphone or tablet to download the app on.

How to open a Starling bank account 

Once you have these items ready, here’s how to open a Starling bank account;

• Download the Starling Bank app from the App Store or Google Play.
• Launch the app and tap "Open a new account."
• Choose your account type. Starling offers personal accounts, joint accounts, business accounts and more depending on your specific needs.

• Set up your account by entering your details
• Complete the verification process. This usually involves taking a photo of your ID and a short video selfie.
• Once verified, you'll receive a notification and your account will be ready to use.

The next logical step would be to fund your account so you can start managing transactions immediately.

You can do this by either connecting an existing account, topping up with a bank transfer or even a cash deposit.

Is Starling the best account for money transfers?

While Starling is an excellent choice for people considering a mobile-first bank, it also has its limitations.

For one, while it offers overdraft services, the charges can get as high as a 35% annual rate. 

But, most importantly, Starling only offers four money transfer currency options (USD, EUR, RAND and ZLOTY).

So if you’re planning to send money to countries in Africa, Asia and even some areas in the Americas like Canada, it might not be the best fit for you. 

We recommend using a platform like Ohentpay that offers transfers to 190+ countries across more than 40 currencies.

In addition to fast international transfers at the best exchange rates available in the market, Ohentpay also offers virtual accounts in several currencies for business needs. 

You can also receive and convert these currencies all in one place.

Send money across borders!

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