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Joint Bank Accounts
What does a joint bank account mean?
Having a joint bank account is the same as having your own, except two people have control over the account, including any arranged overdraft (subject to approval).
Both people can spend money from the account, and we'll give you a Contactless Visa Debit Card each. You'll also be able to manage your joint bank account together using our Mobile Banking app, or via Online Banking.
Types of joint bank account
You can open a joint bank account with any of our current account products, excluding Student and Adapt (child) accounts;
NatWest Select - our basic everyday banking account, with the features you'd expect from a standard account, and no fee.
Our Reward current accounts - these all give 2% back on selected household bills (paid by direct debit) and at least 1% back on spend with our retail partners. Some Reward accounts also include additional benefits, such as mobile phone insurance and travel insurance. Monthly fees apply.
Premier bank accounts - these accounts provide benefits for higher net worth customers (eligibility criteria apply) to help you get the most from your finances.
To apply for any of these accounts, you must be 18+ and a UK resident.
Joint savings accounts
Are joint accounts a good idea?
Having a joint bank account can be a great option for couples, family members, or even close friends, who want to share part of their banking. It can help you organise and manage your money together, to better plan how and where you are spending.
However, before opening a joint account, it's important to ensure:
You fully trust the person you're opening it with, as the bank holds both parties liable for matters such as overspending and debt and any subsequent repayments.
You have discussed finances with each other, as both your credit scores will be assessed during your application and once you have a joint account, you will be co-scored. Co-scoring takes into account both parties' credit scores and can affect any future applications for credit you both make.
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Questions about joint bank accounts
Can I have a joint account with more than one person?
Afraid not. Our joint bank accounts are only available between two parties.
What happens if joint account holders become separated?
In the unfortunate situation of a dispute between you, you can cancel the joint account mandate. Neither of you will be able to use the account until the dispute has been settled, and each of you will be held liable for any debt on the account.
If you wish to close your joint account, then both parties need to agree. If there are any regular payments on the account, or any debt to be paid off, you will need to decide how these will be settled before the account can be closed.
What happens if a joint account holder passes away?
In the circumstance that one joint account holder passes away, we can change the joint account to a sole account. The best thing to do is speak with your nearest branch, or write to us.
Can I apply for an Arranged Overdraft on a joint account?
Yes, you can apply for an Arranged Overdraft on your joint account within our Mobile Banking app or Online Banking.
During the application we only need one of the account holders to give us information about income and outgoings. We will run a full credit check to confirm the overdraft limit we can offer. If you go overdrawn on your joint account, each account holder will be responsible for paying off any money you owe.