Many couples reach the point where sharing finances becomes a smart, practical step. A joint account isn’t just about pooling money, it’s about trust, transparency, and working towards shared goals like holidays, a home, or future plans.
But with so many options, how do you pick the best joint account for couples in the UK? This guide unpacks the top choices for 2025, from digital-first disruptors to reliable high-street names, so couples can confidently choose the account that matches their lifestyle.
What Should Couples Look for in a Joint Bank Account?
Choosing the best joint account for couples isn’t just about going for the biggest bank or most popular name. Couples should think carefully about how they plan to use the account and what features matter most to their lifestyle.
Key points to consider:
- Monthly fees and charges: Look for accounts with low or no monthly fees, especially if you don’t need premium add-ons.
- Overdraft options and rates: Check if the account offers arranged overdrafts and compare interest rates, as these can vary widely between banks.
- Budgeting tools: Many digital banks offer smart features like spend categorisation, savings pots, or instant spending alerts, invaluable for couples managing joint budgets.
- International spending perks: If you and your partner travel frequently, look for accounts with low or no foreign transaction fees.
- Cashback and rewards: Some accounts offer cashback on spending or discounts with partner retailers handy for couples who want extra value.
- App and online usability: A user-friendly app or online banking portal can make managing shared finances smoother and reduce stress.
Understanding these elements helps couples choose an account that supports, rather than strains, their financial life together.
Are Digital-Only Banks Better for Couples Than Traditional Banks?
Digital-only banks like Monzo and Starling have redefined modern banking, offering sleek mobile apps, instant notifications, spending insights, and often fee-free international spending features that appeal especially to younger or tech-savvy couples.
On the other hand, traditional banks like Lloyds, HSBC, or Barclays provide the comfort of an extensive branch network, in-person service, and a reputation built over decades.
The best joint account for couples strikes the right balance: it should match your need for convenience, personal interaction, budgeting tools, or travel perks.
For some couples, that means embracing digital-first services; for others, the reassurance of face-to-face banking is key.
How Can a Joint Account Improve Couples’ Money Management?
A joint account isn’t just about combining incomes it’s about improving how couples work together financially.
Here’s how it can help:
- Simplifies shared expenses: Rent, bills, groceries, subscriptions all handled from one account, reducing confusion.
- Real-time tracking: Apps provide instant updates, so both partners know what’s going in and out at all times.
- Spend categorisation: Many banks help break spending into categories, making it easier to spot where money goes.
- Automated savings: Features like savings pots or vaults let couples set aside money for goals like holidays, weddings, or a home.
- Builds financial trust: Transparency over money strengthens communication and reduces misunderstandings about “who paid what.”
- Encourages collaboration: Couples can set budgets, monitor progress, and celebrate financial milestones together.
With the right account, money becomes a shared project, not a point of tension.
What Are the Risks of Opening a Joint Bank Account?
While the best joint account for couples brings many benefits, there are important risks couples should understand before opening one.
Key considerations include:
- Shared liability: Both partners have equal access, meaning one person’s spending can drain the entire account.
- Linked credit profiles: Overdraft use or missed payments can affect both partners’ credit scores, potentially impacting future loans or mortgages.
- Potential disagreements: Without clear communication, differences in spending habits can lead to arguments or resentment.
- Complications if separating: If the relationship ends, closing the account or dividing funds can be legally and emotionally complex.
- Loss of individual control: You might lose some personal financial independence, especially if you close individual accounts.
It’s vital to discuss expectations and agree on ground rules before combining finances.
How Easy Is It to Open a Joint Bank Account in the UK?
Opening a joint account in the UK is generally simple and can often be completed in minutes, particularly with digital-first banks like Starling or Monzo.
Both partners typically need to be over 18, UK residents, and provide personal identification (passport, driver’s licence), address history for the past three years, and sometimes employment or income details.
App-based banks streamline the process online or via mobile app, while high-street banks like Lloyds, HSBC, or Barclays may require one partner to visit a branch, especially if they’re a new customer.
Either way, the process is designed to be straightforward, ensuring couples can start managing joint finances smoothly.
Top 10 Best Joint Account for Couples in 2025
1. Starling Bank – Best All-Rounder and for Overseas Spending
Starling Bank, founded in 2014, has made waves as one of the UK’s most innovative digital banks. With no physical branches, Starling offers everything through its user-friendly app, earning awards for customer satisfaction and cutting-edge features.
It’s particularly praised for fee-free overseas spending, making it popular among travelling couples. With Starling, couples can split bills effortlessly, set savings goals together, and monitor spending in real time.
It’s a solid choice for pairs who value transparency, tech innovation, and low fees all rolled into one.
Key Highlights :
- No monthly fees or overseas transaction charges
- Instant spending notifications and insights
- Easy bill-splitting via app
- 24/7 customer support through chat
- Savings Spaces for shared goals
Starling Bank Account Specs:
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Opening Balance | £0 |
| Account Fees | £0 |
| Overdraft (Arranged) | 15% EAR variable |
| Overseas Transactions | £0 |
| Overseas Withdrawals | £0 |
Summary: Starling Bank offers one of the best joint account for couples looking for flexibility, tech-led features, and international savings ideal for modern UK couples.
2. Monzo – Best for Budgeting Tools
Founded in 2015, Monzo has become a favourite among younger couples, thanks to its brilliant budgeting features and vibrant mobile app.
What makes Monzo stand out is its focus on financial wellbeing, from setting up Joint Pots to ring-fence savings, to alerting you about upcoming direct debits.
Couples get an instant overview of who spends what and where, reducing arguments over money. If both partners have a Monzo account, setting up a joint one takes minutes, giving immediate access to tools that help with planning and spending control.
Key Highlights:
- Joint Pots for specific saving goals
- Real-time payment alerts and spend tracking
- Easy account setup in-app
- Fee-free overseas card use (within limits)
- Overdrafts and loans available
Monzo Account Specs:
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Opening Balance | £0 |
| Account Fees | £0 |
| Overdraft (Arranged) | 39% EAR variable |
| Overseas Transactions | 0% up to £1,000/month |
| Overseas Withdrawals | £0 up to £200/month |
Summary: For couples keen to stay on top of their finances, Monzo offers an intuitive best joint account for couples with standout budgeting tools and a seamless digital experience.
3. TSB Spend & Save – Best for Cashback
TSB, a longstanding UK bank, brings in-person service together with clever digital banking through its Spend & Save joint account.
Couples get rewarded with cashback when they hit spending thresholds, plus a quirky “Save the Pennies” tool that rounds up purchases to help save effortlessly.
Managing the account is flexible, whether online, by app, or by phone and opening is quick, with no monthly fees. The cashback incentive for using the debit card makes this account a smart choice for everyday spendingfor couples.
Key Highlights:
- Earn £5 cashback/month (first 6 months)
- Save the Pennies automatic savings tool
- Online, mobile, and phone banking options
- An optional arranged overdraft
- Quick account opening process
TSB Account Specs:
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Opening Balance | £0 |
| Account Fees | £0 |
| Overdraft (Arranged) | 39.9% EAR variable |
| Overseas Transactions | 2.99% Europe, £1 elsewhere |
| Overseas Withdrawals | 2.99% + 1.5% fee |
Summary: Couples wanting to earn as they spend will find TSB’s best joint account for couples appealing, thanks to cashback rewards and fun, automated savings features.
4. Lloyds Classic – Best for Payment Features
Lloyds, one of the UK’s biggest high-street banks, offers the Classic Account for couples who value everyday perks plus the reliability of branch access.
Couples can enjoy up to 15% cashback at selected retailers and manage their money via online, app, or face-to-face.
The account also enables international payments and has an optional overdraft facility, making it versatile. With Halifax and Bank of Scotland under the same group, couples can expect consistent features across the brands.
Key Highlights:
- Everyday Offers cashback programme
- Strong branch and ATM presence
- International payments supported
- Optional overdraft with clear terms
- 24/7 digital banking access
Lloyds Account Specs:
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Opening Balance | £1 |
| Account Fees | £0 |
| Overdraft (Arranged) | 29.9% EAR variable |
| Overseas Transactions | 2.99% + £0.50 |
| Overseas Withdrawals | 2.99% + £1.50 |
Summary: The Lloyds Classic Account offers a solid best joint account for couples, blending traditional services with attractive cashback and robust payment tools.
5. Revolut – Best for In-App Spending Together
Revolut began in 2015 as a currency app and has grown into a multi-currency fintech hub. For couples eager to manage everything digitally from splitting bills to holding currencies Revolut is a top contender.
You can tailor features by subscription tier, hold different currencies, and create savings vaults. Signing up is quick, and the app is packed with extras like virtual cards and analytics. It’s especially appealing to couples who travel or shop internationally.
Key Highlights:
- Multi-currency holding and exchange
- Shared budgeting and savings vaults
- Instant bill splitting within the app
- Virtual cards for safer online shopping
- Cashback on selected premium plans
Revolut Account Specs:
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Opening Balance | £0 |
| Account Fees | £0 standard, premium plans available |
| Overseas Transactions | 0% Mon-Fri (max £1,000/month) |
| Overseas Withdrawals | £0 up to £200/month |
| Cashback | Varies by plan |
Summary: For couples who love a tech-first approach, Revolut offers one of the most flexible, globally friendly best joint account for couples options in the UK.
6. First Direct 1st Account – Best for Customer Service
First Direct, part of HSBC, has been a UK favourite for customer service since launching in 1989. Known for 24/7 support and an award-winning experience, it’s perfect for couples who value help when they need it.
The account includes a generous £250 interest-free overdraft and fee-free overseas card use. Though there are no branches, the online and phone service is top-tier. It’s a smart pick for couples who want peace of mind with personal touch.
Key Highlights:
- £250 interest-free overdraft
- £175 switch bonus
- 24/7 award-winning customer service
- Fee-free overseas card use
- Access to exclusive savings rates
First Direct Account Specs:
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Opening Balance | £0 |
| Account Fees | £0 |
| Overdraft (Arranged) | 0% up to £250 |
| Overseas Transactions | 0% |
| Overseas Withdrawals | 0% |
Summary: Couples who want excellent service and no-fuss banking will appreciate First Direct’s best joint account for couples, especially for its reliable support and switch incentives.
7. Royal Bank of Scotland Select Account – Best for Budgeting Support
The RBS Select Account is an everyday joint account with no monthly fees and handy budgeting tools via its mobile app. Couples can round up purchases into savings, categorise expenses, and track credit scores all in one place.
With an optional overdraft and easy-to-use online tools, RBS appeals to couples wanting more control over their financial future. Plus, it offers a £125 switch bonus to make it even sweeter.
Key Highlights:
- £125 switch incentive
- Mobile app with budgeting features
- Optional overdraft
- Round-up savings tool
- FSCS protection
RBS Account Specs:
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Opening Balance | £0.01 |
| Account Fees | £0 |
| Overdraft (Arranged) | 39.49% EAR variable |
| Overseas Transactions | 2.75% |
| Overseas Withdrawals | 2.75% |
Summary: RBS’s Select Account delivers one of the most user-friendly best joint account for couples options, ideal for those wanting a little extra help managing shared money.
8. HSBC Advance Bank Account – Best for Added Perks
HSBC’s Advance Bank Account isn’t just about everyday banking it also comes with exclusive discounts and smart tools. Couples can benefit from fee-free international transfers, instant balance updates, and cheque deposits by phone.
The account includes a minimum arranged overdraft offer of £1,000, giving extra flexibility. It’s ideal for couples wanting a big-name bank with a few luxurious touches.
Key Highlights:
- Discounts on dining, leisure, and shopping
- Fee-free global transfers within HSBC
- Smart money tools and mobile cheque deposits
- Minimum £1,000 arranged overdraft offer
- No monthly account fees
HSBC Account Specs:
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Opening Balance | £0 |
| Account Fees | £0 |
| Overdraft (Arranged) | 0% EAR variable (min £1,000) |
| Overseas Transactions | 2.75% |
| Overseas Withdrawals | 2.75% + 2% fee |
Summary: Couples looking for a global bank with extra lifestyle perks will enjoy HSBC’s Advance as a feature-rich best joint account for couples.
9. Bank of Scotland Classic – Best for Cashback and Savings
Bank of Scotland offers a solid everyday joint account that rewards couples with up to 15% cashback on debit card spending. With its “Save the Change” feature, couples can round up purchases to build savings painlessly.
There’s no monthly fee, and an optional overdraft adds flexibility. The account can be opened online, in-app, or in-branch, depending on customer status.
Key Highlights:
- Up to 15% cashback at partner retailers
- Save the Change automatic savings
- Optional overdraft
- FSCS protection
- Multiple application methods
Bank of Scotland Account Specs:
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Opening Balance | £0 |
| Account Fees | £0 |
| Overdraft (Arranged) | Variable |
| Overseas Transactions | 2.99% + £0.50 |
| Overseas Withdrawals | 2.99% + £1.50 |
Summary: Couples who want to combine savings and spending perks will find the Bank of Scotland Classic a smart best joint account for couples.
10. Barclays Bank Account – Best for Branch Access and Add-Ons
Barclays, a trusted name in UK banking, offers a joint account with flexibility and optional add-ons. Couples can pay extra for travel, gadget, or breakdown cover, and enjoy Barclays Blue Rewards.
The app provides strong money management tools, and the account comes with an optional overdraft. It’s an appealing choice for couples wanting classic banking with modern add-ons.
Key Highlights:
- Optional add-on insurance covers
- Barclays Blue Rewards eligibility
- Branch and ATM access nationwide
- Strong online and app tools
- FSCS protection
Barclays Account Specs:
| Feature | Details |
| Minimum Opening Balance | £1 |
| Account Fees | £0 (add-ons extra) |
| Overdraft (Arranged) | Variable |
| Overseas Transactions | 2.99% |
| Overseas Withdrawals | 2.99% |
Summary: For couples wanting flexibility and face-to-face service, Barclays offers a versatile best joint account for couples with useful add-ons and rewards.
Conclusion
Choosing the best joint account for couples can make a real difference in how smoothly you manage money together. Whether you want budgeting tools, cashback perks, or travel-friendly features, there’s a perfect match out there.
Take time to compare options, talk openly about financial goals, and pick an account that strengthens your partnership. With the right joint account, managing shared finances becomes easier, more transparent, and even rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best joint account for saving money?
Accounts like Starling and Monzo offer great saving tools like pots and vaults to help couples reach goals.
Can opening a joint account affect my credit score?
Yes joint accounts can link credit histories, so one partner’s overdraft or missed payment may impact both.
Do both partners need to be existing customers to open a joint account?
With some banks, yes, but digital banks like Monzo often let you join even if only one partner has an account.
Are joint accounts free to open?
Most joint accounts in the UK have no opening fee, but check for overdraft charges or optional monthly fees.
Can we set spending limits in a joint account?
Many modern apps offer spending alerts, limits, or budgeting categories to help couples manage shared finances smartly.
What happens to the joint account if we split up?
Both partners remain responsible for the account, so you’ll need to close it together or agree on dividing funds.
Which joint account is best for couples who travel often?
Starling and Revolut are excellent for travellers, offering low or no overseas transaction fees and multi-currency options.
