Last Updated: August 5, 2026
Research from Age UK into internet use showed digital exclusion is a real problem for older people. However, there are lots of benefits to being online – one such benefit is online banking.
Choosing to bank online can make for a much swifter and easier way to manage your finances. If you are wondering how to start internet banking, it can feel like a bit of a learning curve when you first make the switch, particularly if you’re not too familiar with online spaces. From processing transactions at the click of a button to checking your account balance on the go, the benefits of managing your money digitally are numerous. According to UK Finance, the vast majority of UK adults now use at least one form of remote banking – so you would be in very good company. To help you get started, we’ve put together this easy-to-follow beginner’s guide to online banking.
Step-by-step: how to start internet banking
First, gather the information you need
There are a few details that you’re going to need to have to hand when it comes to creating your online banking account. Usually, these will be basic details like your account number and sort code, as well as some personal details, such as your full name, date of birth, and address. Just as you need to supply these details when you open a bank account in person, you’ll also need to supply these when you make the switch to online banking. This is so your bank can confirm that you are who you say you are – and to help protect you from fraud.
If you’re ever in doubt about a detail that you’ve been asked to fill in online, it’s best to get in touch with your bank. You can usually do this by calling the number on the back of your card. Never use a phone number supplied in an unsolicited email or text message – always go back to your card or statement.
Next, create your login
Go directly to your bank’s official website rather than clicking a link in an email – type the address into your browser or search for it, then bookmark it for future use. When you get onto the website, you may find that you’re prompted to download a mobile banking app, particularly if you’re signing up from your phone. Having access to your bank’s app allows you to check up on your accounts regularly, even when you’re on the move – but you can choose to forgo this step if you wish.
Once you’ve found your way onto your bank’s website or app, it’s usually pretty straightforward to navigate your way through the login creation process. The site will usually display options to “login” or “create an account” – follow these steps, filling in any details that you need to. Once registered, it’s worth enabling two-step verification (2SV) if your bank offers it. The National Cyber Security Centre recommends 2SV as a way to protect your accounts by adding a second layer of security that makes access much harder for criminals.
Lastly, take a look around
Once you’ve followed each of the steps to create a login on your bank’s website, you’re all set up and ready to navigate your new online banking portal. Take a look around to discover where your account information is located. Don’t be afraid to have a click around the different pages – this is the best way to familiarise yourself with your online account. If you want to test a transfer, start with a very small amount to a known payee and confirm it has arrived before doing anything larger.
Is online banking easy and what should you remember?
For most people, online banking is straightforward once you’ve set it up. The FCA’s Financial Lives 2024 survey found that 75% of adults used a mobile app for day-to-day banking – a figure that has grown significantly in recent years. That said, ease does depend on your confidence, your device, and whether you have reliable internet access. If any of those feel uncertain, your bank’s branch or telephone service remains a perfectly valid option, and many banks also offer accessibility settings for screen readers and larger text.
The internet can make banking tasks feel much more straightforward, but that doesn’t mean that it’s always risk-free. So, it’s important to take precautions and be mindful of any websites that you’re visiting, as well as any personal information that you’re giving away online. Make sure that you’re only accessing online banking through the bank’s verified app, or via the website address that they have supplied to you. Avoid using shared computers or public Wi-Fi when logging in to your account.
Making the transition to banking online may seem daunting at first, but is online banking easy once you get the hang of it? In time, navigating your way around your online banking account becomes much simpler. Banks generally make their online spaces easy to understand and accessible for everyone, and research by the Payment Systems Regulator continues to show that the vast majority of users find UK payment systems work well. Once you’ve found your way onto the website, there’s plenty of helpful information to discover – and your bank’s branch or helpline is always there if you get stuck.
This article was originally written by Ellen Gibbs and has been reviewed and updated in 2026 against guidance from the FCA, NCSC, and the UK government’s Stop! Think Fraud campaign. Care Choices is an independent publisher of public-information content; this article does not constitute regulated financial advice. For corrections or queries, please visit our contact page.
Photo by Centre for Ageing Better on Unsplash
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start internet banking if I am a beginner?
If you want to know how to start internet banking, you will normally need an existing account first. You then register through your bank’s official website or app by providing some personal details and verifying your identity. The exact process varies by bank, but they will gently guide you through each step.
What information do I need to set up my account?
You will usually need your name, address, date of birth, contact details, account number and sort code. Some banks may also require a card reader or a mobile phone to receive a security code. Having these details ready makes the setup process much smoother.
Is online banking easy for everyday tasks?
Yes, most people find it very straightforward once the initial setup is complete. If you are wondering is online banking easy, basic tasks like checking balances, viewing statements, and transferring money take just a few clicks. It can feel like a learning curve at first, but it quickly becomes a convenient way to manage your finances.
Is it safe to manage my money online?
It is generally safe when used carefully, as banks use encrypted connections and multi-step authentication to protect you. However, you must stay alert to potential scams and never give out your full password or PIN. The FCA warns that a genuine bank will never unexpectedly ask for these details or tell you to move money to a safe account.
Can I still get help if I am not confident with technology?
Absolutely – online banking does not completely replace a bank branch or telephone support. You can always ask your bank for help, or turn to trusted family members without sharing your secure passwords. For more resources on staying independent and getting support, visit our care information hub.
