Proof of address - what can be used and when is it needed?

We’ve all been there. You’re setting up a new account or looking to rent a new flat, and someone asks: ‘Do you have proof of address?’

And your mind goes blank. ‘Where is my council tax form? Do I still even get a utilities bill? Will a bank statement work? Is my driver’s licence proof of address?’

Don’t worry – ukphonebook.com is here to help with an in-depth guide to what can be used as a proof of address and when. 

What is proof of address?

Proof of address is required in many situations, such as when you’re setting up a bank account or applying for a new passport. When proof of address is requested, you must provide a set of documents to prove that you really are the person you claim to be.

It’s vital that financial institutions, landlords and government bodies collect this evidence, to help guard against accounts being set up for criminal or fraudulent reasons.

They can also ensure they have the most accurate contact details for you, so you safely receive any important messages about your account.

Proof of address vs proof of identity

Proof of address is different to proof of identity. Proof of address needs to include your full address details. Proof of identity – sometimes referred to as proof of name – is an official form of identification such as a driving licence, passport, or birth certificate. 

Sometimes, a proof of address can also be a proof of identity, such as your driving licence. If you’re asked for both, you usually won’t be able to use the same item twice. For example, you couldn’t use your driving licence as both proof of address and proof of identity for the same transaction.

What can be used as proof of address?

Documents considered acceptable forms of proof of address must include the following:

• Your full name
• Full address details
• Be clearly dated within the last three months

Sometimes, you may be asked to provide two proofs of address. These secondary documents can include:

• Recent utility bill – gas, electricity, water and internet bills. Mobile phone bills aren’t usually accepted
• Insurance documents – car and home insurance only
• Council tax statement
• Bank statements or credit card bills
• Payslips
• Driving licence and car registration
• Letter from employer
• Mortgage statements
• Letter from government body such as HMRC
• Residence permit

However, the type of proof you need depends on what you’re trying to do. Copies or unofficial print outs won’t usually be accepted. 

When do you need proof of address?

Proof of address is most often required when dealing with financial institutions – whether you’re opening a bank account, taking out a loan or organising a mortgage.

But there are other situations that require proof of address, such as:

• Renting a property
• Applying for a passport
• Registering to vote
• Getting a driving license
• Starting a new job
• Getting a new passport
• Registering a birth
• Registering for benefits

You don’t need a proof of address to register for a GP or to update your driving licence.

Proof of address table

We have summarized some of the more common situations you might need a proof of address and what proof is accepted.

How to get proof of address when you have just moved

Getting a proof of address when moving house is a bit of a catch-22 as many of the institutions that require proof of address are also the ones you would usually request the documents from. And many documents that you might already have – such as your driving licence – might have your old address on.

In this scenario, a mortgage agreement letter or tenancy agreement will be suitable for most cases. You should then contact your utility companies and ask them to send you an opening statement.

You can also change your driving licence address without the need for proof of address, so it’s worth doing that as soon as you move. 

FAQs for proof of address documents

Do all banks need proof of address to open account?

No, some banks allow you to open an account without proof of address, but most will require proof of identity.

Where can I check my registered address details?

To check your address details, you can use:

• Electoral Roll search – check which address you’re registered to vote with and update it if it’s the wrong one
• Property owner verification – check that you’re the registered owner of an address
• People finder – do a general search to make sure you’re address details are correct and up to date

Why do employers need proof of address?

Employers often carry out employment checks to make sure you are legally allowed to work in the UK and to confirm your identity. Part of this is asking for proof of address.

Do schools ask for proof of address?

Yes, some schools will ask for proof of address when applying or transferring to a new school. 

Do online bank statements count as proof of address?

No. You need to get the bank to send it directly to your address or go into the branch and get a print out from them.

Related Articles

- How to change address on key documents