Can I open a bank account if I have bad credit?

Yes. A poor credit history doesn't automatically stop you from opening a Zopa bank account.

When you apply, we run a soft credit search. That means we take a look at your credit file to check your eligibility, but it won't affect your credit score, and other lenders can't see it. So it's worth applying to find out where you stand.

To open an account, you'll need to be a UK tax resident aged 18 or over, and you'll need to pass our identity and eligibility checks. We look at more than your credit score, so a few marks on your file won't necessarily count against you. What we can verify about your identity and the details you give us both play a part, and additional eligibility requirements may apply.

You can review our eligibility criteria before you apply. To see how our credit search works and what we check, see Will opening a Biscuit bank account require a credit check/affect my score?