With a basic bank account you can pay money in, get cash out by card and set up standing orders and direct debits to pay bills. You can take out or spend money only if there is enough in your account. You do not get a cheque book. It does not cost you anything to open a basic bank account. If you've got debts to your bank and you open a basic bank account at the same bank, they may use money in your new account to pay off the debts.

To find out which banks and building societies offer this type of account and which one would be best for you, ask the Advice Centre (01279 446622) for the Financial Services Authority leaflet 'No bank account?' or download a copy from the Financial Services Authority website:

www.fsa.gov.uk/consumer