Help with opening an account  


We're here to help guide you through opening an account. Below you will find our collated FAQ list to help you find the answer you're after.

Common Questions 

  • What are the minimum and maximum balances that can be held on a CAF Bank account?
    When you open an account with CAF Bank, we recommend crediting the account as soon as possible. There's no limit to the maximum balance that can be held.
  • Can non-UK charities open a bank account?
    You’ll need to be registered in the UK to open an account with CAF Bank. 
  • Can we transfer Standing Orders and Direct Debits from our old account?

    Standing Orders and Direct Debits to be paid out of your account


    CAF Bank isn't part of the Current Account Switch Service, but we have a simple process to make sure your payments are transferred effectively and quickly.
    You'll need to complete the 'Standing order and Direct Debit transfer to CAF Bank' form which is found in the new account application pack. We'll request details of Standing Orders and Direct Debits paid from your existing bank account and contact you, once we've had a response to confirm the payments you'd like transferred.

    At this point, we'll aim to put everything in place for you within 12 working days.

    We recommend that you maintain enough funds in your existing account until you're sure that the transfer has been successful.

    Standing Orders and Direct Debits paid into your account

    You'll need to contact the organisations or donors of any Standing Orders paid to your existing account to advise them that your bank account details have changed.

    If you have more than 250 Standing Orders paid into your existing current account, please let us know, as we may be able to arrange for them to be transferred to your new account electronically.
    We recommend that you speak to your Bacs Bureau if you have Direct Debits paid into your account.

    Visit our Bacs Bureau Service page for details of a secure, efficient way to collect Direct Debits and send Bulk Payments within the UK.
  • Can we open an account if we operate outside the UK?
    Yes, provided your charity or company is registered in the UK. We'll need details of Operations/ Partners/ Associated Organisations, starting at question 6.6 on the application form. Please also include a copy of your governing documents when you apply. 
  • How do I apply for a CAF Bank account?

    Either download an application form. Email us at cafbank@cafonline.org. Or, call us on 03000 123 456 (Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm, except English bank holidays) to request one be sent out to you.

  • What evidence of our charitable status is needed when opening an account?

    We’ll ask you to provide at least one of the following pieces of information in your application.

    1. Charity registration number issued by one of the following:

    - Charity Commission (CC).
    - Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR).
    - Charity Commission for Northern Ireland (CCNI).

    2. A copy of your charity registration application.

    3. Registered company number (for organisations registered with Companies House).

    We'll also need you to send a copy of your charity's governing document, along with a copy of any amendments or additions that may have been made since the inception of your charity and its original governing document.

Explore other help topics 

Managing your account

Online banking

Products and services

Staying secure

Making a complaint

Further questions?

Give us a call 

Our expert team is here to help with any questions you have about your organisation's banking.
Phone 03000 123 456 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm, except English bank holidays).