You cannot open a Post Office Savings Account online — you must visit a branch in person
The Post Office does not offer online account opening for its savings products. You will need to walk into a physical Post Office branch, bring identification and proof of address, and complete the paperwork there. A staff member will verify your details on the spot and set up your account during that visit.
This is different from banks, which often let you open accounts from home. The Post Office requires face-to-face verification because it handles government payments, benefits, and other sensitive transactions. Once your account is open, you can manage it online through their website or mobile app — but the initial setup must happen at a branch.
Key Takeaways
- Post Office Savings Accounts require an in-person visit to a branch with valid ID and proof of address; online-only opening is not available.
- You can manage your account online after it opens, including checking balances, transferring money, and setting up standing orders.
- The Post Office has over 11,500 branches across the UK, so finding one near you is usually straightforward.
- Opening takes about 15 to 20 minutes once you arrive with the right documents.
- Post Office Savings Accounts come in different types — instant access, fixed-term bonds, and ISAs — each with different interest rates and withdrawal rules.
What documents you need to bring to the branch
Bring one form of photo ID: a passport, driving licence, or national ID card. The Post Office will not accept a provisional driving licence or a student card. If your ID does not show your current address, you will also need proof of address dated within the last three months — a utility bill, council tax bill, or bank statement will work.
If you are opening an account for a child under 16, a parent or guardian must attend with the child. You will need the child's birth certificate or passport and proof of the adult's identity and address. Some Post Office branches have restrictions on children's accounts, so call ahead to check whether the branch you plan to visit can open one.
Finding a Post Office branch and checking opening hours
Use the Post Office branch finder on the official Post Office website. Enter your postcode and it will show you nearby branches, their opening hours, and which services they offer. Not every branch offers savings accounts — some smaller offices handle mail only. The finder will tell you which ones do.
Many branches close on Sundays and some close on Saturdays, so check the hours before you go. If you work standard hours, look for a branch near your workplace or on your commute, because lunchtime visits can mean long queues. Some larger branches have extended hours or open on Sundays.
What happens during your in-person visit
A Post Office staff member will check your ID and proof of address, then ask you questions about the type of account you want. They will explain the interest rate, any withdrawal restrictions, and fees if they apply. You will sign a declaration confirming your details are correct and that you are not opening the account for someone else.
The staff member will then set up your account on their system. You will receive a welcome pack with your account number, sort code, and initial information. Some branches can issue a debit card on the day, but others will post it to you — ask when you arrive. Your account is usually ready to use immediately, even if your card has not arrived yet.
Managing your account after it opens
Once your account is open, you can log in to the Post Office online banking service using your account number and a password you set up at the branch. You can check your balance, view transactions, transfer money between your own accounts, and set up standing orders. You can also use the Post Office mobile app for the same functions.
If you need to withdraw cash, you can do so at any Post Office branch using your debit card or by asking staff to process a withdrawal. You do not need to visit the same branch where you opened the account. Some accounts have withdrawal limits or notice periods — check your terms to see whether you can withdraw whenever you want or whether you need to give notice.
Different types of Post Office Savings Accounts
The Post Office offers instant access savings accounts, where you can withdraw money whenever you want with no notice period. Interest rates on these accounts are typically lower than fixed-term bonds. There are also fixed-term bonds, where you lock your money away for a set period — usually one, two, or three years — and get a higher interest rate in return. If you withdraw early, you will lose some or all of the interest.
The Post Office also offers Cash ISAs, which are tax-free savings accounts. You can save up to £20,000 per tax year in an ISA and pay no tax on the interest. Junior ISAs are available for children under 16. Each type has different interest rates and rules, so compare them on the Post Office website or ask staff at the branch which one suits your needs.
What to do if you cannot visit a branch in person
If you are housebound or unable to travel, some Post Office branches offer a home visit service. Call the branch directly and ask whether they provide this — not all do. You will still need to provide the same ID and proof of address, and a staff member will visit you to complete the paperwork and set up your account.
If no branch near you offers home visits, you may need to ask a family member or trusted person to help you travel to a branch. Alternatively, you could explore savings accounts from banks or building societies that do offer online opening, though they may not offer the same products or interest rates as the Post Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone else open a Post Office Savings Account on my behalf?
No. You must be present in person with valid ID. The only exception is for children under 16, where a parent or guardian must attend with the child. The Post Office does not allow third parties to open accounts for adults.
How long does it take to open an account at the branch?
The process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes, depending on how busy the branch is and which type of account you are opening. Bring all your documents with you so staff do not have to ask you to come back.
Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. Your account is active immediately after you open it. You can use it to receive payments, set up standing orders, and transfer money online. You can withdraw cash at any Post Office branch using your account number while you wait for your card.
What if I move house after opening my account?
You do not need to visit a branch to update your address. You can change it online through your Post Office banking account or by calling the Post Office customer service number on your statements.
Do I need a minimum amount of money to open an account?
Minimum opening amounts vary by account type. Some instant access accounts have no minimum, while fixed-term bonds often require £500 or £1,000. Check the Post Office website or ask at the branch about the specific account you want to open.