Before you start
The steps to setting up your online banking will depend on a few things. First, the bank or banks you are with. Each bank will have its own online banking features and services. This means that registering and using the service may be different for each bank.
It will also depend on the kind of device you are using. There will often be some differences between the features on a mobile or tablet vs a desktop or laptop. With mobile banking, you can more easily manage your money on the move. Most people carry their mobile with them and are able to access the internet using mobile data. This means there’s more opportunity for banks to build features that will make the most of you being able to bank on the move.
Banking online experiences can even vary down to the model and type of phone you’re using e.g. Apple, Android, Nokia or Samsung. So, it’s important to be aware that you can ask your bank for help. They should be able to help you get started and understand how to bank on your device.
Registering and setting up
To begin your set up, you will need to register for online banking with the bank of your choice. There are three main ways to do this.
They are:
- You can go online – If you feel comfortable, you can use a web browser to search for or navigate to your bank’s website. From there you can look on their website for instructions on how to get started or register for online banking. Some will allow you to do it online, others may ask you to go into branch or phone them
- You can go into a branch – They can help you understand how to get started with their online banking services
- You can phone your bank – From there, they should be able to help you get started
What you’ll need
To register, you’ll need to go through a number of steps. Again, these will vary, but there are some general things you may be able to expect.
For example:
- Personal details – In order to find your account, your bank will likely ask for some personal details. For example, your name, date of birth, postcode and account details
- Creating your log-in details – You will usually be given a customer number to help you to log in to your online banking. You will also be asked to provide details on how you, and only you, will unlock your account. Some banks will do this by asking you to create a username and password. Others may ask you to set up a pin, some memorable information, a fingerprint or face identification. These extra layers of protection help to make sure you’re the only one who can use your account
- Terms and conditions – You will usually have to read and agree to some terms and conditions. You should read these and make sure you’re comfortable with what you’re signing up to
- Security checks – Some banks will add extra security checks into the process. This is simply to make sure it is absolutely you who is setting up your online banking. This can sometimes be a phone call with the bank, it can also require you to record a short video of yourself so they can check you are who you say you are. Because most banks will require you to do a security check via call or message, you will need some kind of phone number
Getting started on a laptop/desktop
Once you’re registered, you should be able to find and log in to your online banking through a web browser. If you started your process through a branch or mobile banking, your bank should have given you some information on how to log in and get started. If you registered online, it should be clear how to log-in using the details you just set up.