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How to use Raisin UK: a quick start guide

Whether you’re a beginner saver, have a lump sum to invest, or you wish to grow your existing pot, opening a savings account through Raisin UK is a great way to save, whatever you’re saving for.

But how does it work? Well, the first thing you should know is that we’re not a bank. What we offer is an easy-to-use, simple savings service that allows you to choose from a range of banks to save with. Think of us like a travel agent, who has lots of different types of holidays from different companies for you to choose from, making it easier to find something that’s just right for you.

Just register with us, and you’ll have a choice of competitive savings accounts at your fingertips (and the best thing is that you don’t need to fill out a new application form each time you want to open a new savings account – that’s all taken care of when you register).

How to register for a Raisin UK Account and grow your savings

Registering for a Raisin UK Account is so easy, your hamster could do it (although we wouldn’t recommend that).

Click the ‘Register today‘ button below
Enter your email address
Complete your application (we’ll email you a link to complete your application later if you need to)
Choose the savings account that’s right for you (more on this below)

You can do all this while wearing your pyjamas (and it’s free).

1. Choose the savings account that’s right for you

Take the time to consider and compare different types of savings accounts, their benefits and interest rates, and weigh up which one is best suited to you. The important information you’ll need to know, such as interest rates and term length, are set out clearly so you can make easy comparisons. The different types of savings accounts available through our marketplace include:

Fixed rate bonds

Open with a single deposit and lock in a competitive fixed interest rate for a set term, after which you can access your funds.

Notice accounts

Open with a single deposit and earn a variable interest rate with access to your funds after a notice period.

Easy access accounts

Top-up and access your money whenever you want while you earn a variable rate of interest.

2. Tell us which account you want to apply for

When you’ve chosen the savings account that’s right for you, let us know by logging in to your Raisin UK Account and selecting the savings account you want to open. You can apply to open as many accounts as you like.

3. Transfer your money

The next step is to make a deposit.

You can transfer money from your bank or building society using your unique Raisin UK Account sort code and account number, which you’ll find on your dashboard when you log in, as well as on the welcome email we send to you.

Some of our customers have informed us that their bank or building society displays a Confirmation of Payee (fraud warning) message or blocks transfers to their Raisin UK Account. Before transferring larger deposits, we recommend initially transferring a small amount to validate your Raisin UK Account, such as £1, and confirming that this amount is available in your Raisin UK Account (within 24 hours). If you get stuck or are unsure about making a transfer, refer to our guide on how to transfer money to your Raisin UK Account.

Once the money has reached your Raisin UK Account, your savings account application will be reviewed, and once approved, your money will automatically transfer into your new savings account. It should take less than two business days from when your full deposit amount is available in your Raisin UK Account to when your savings account opens.

When you’ve opened your first savings account using our marketplace, you can claim a welcome bonus to give your savings a helpful kick-start.

4. Watch your money grow

All that’s left for you to do is sit back, relax and watch your money grow, thanks to the competitive interest rates provided by our partner banks.

Is my money safe?

The short answer is yes. We only partner with registered, reputable banks, so you can rest assured that your deposits are protected. Banks based in the UK are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which covers deposits of up to £85,000 per person, per banking group.

Is there anything else I need to do?

Depending on the type of savings account and term you have chosen, you may need to take action as your account reaches maturity.

If you choose to open a fixed rate bond, you can either renew your account (if a renewal offer is available) or simply wait until your account reaches its full term, when your original deposit and any interest or profit earned will transfer to your Raisin UK Account. In that case, you could then open a new savings account on our marketplace to deposit this money into, so you grow your savings even more.

Notice accounts, on the other hand, can be left open for as long as you wish, with a required notice period setting out how many days’ notice you’ll need to give before moving or withdrawing any funds.

Easy access accounts allow you to top-up and withdraw your money whenever you want, meaning you don’t have to give notice to access your money.

If you’re unsure how to go about registering for a Raisin UK Account or get stuck at any stage of your application or money management process, our ‘how to’ guides and FAQs have the answers you’re looking for.

Access your Raisin UK Account using our app

and manage all your savings accounts in one place while you’re on the go.

Download on the App Store ›

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