Struggling with Monzo’s proof of address? Try these safe, easy alternatives
Chloe Coleman
Like all regulated banks and financial services, Monzo has to follow strict rules when onboarding customers.
You will need to verify your identity with a photo ID and biometric video selfie, as well as verifying your address.
How does Monzo’s address verification work?
Monzo normally verifies your address implicitly by sending your first card there. Once you activate the card, you’ve “verified” your address.
If your address changes, or your account appears to be higher risk, you may need to provide one of these proof of address documents dated from the last three months:
- A utility bill (not mobile)
- A bank statement
- A government letter
- A recent payslip
- A driving licence
Why does Monzo need to verify my address?
Businesses like Monzo are subject to rules intended to prevent money laundering. Verifying address is part of how banks stop criminals from spending money gained illegally.
If address verification isn’t done properly, businesses can get hefty fines or lose their licence to operate.
Why is the choice of documents so limited?
There’s two main reasons.
First is technical feasibility. Proof of address documents are hard to validate, so it helps Monzo to accept only a small subset of documents they see frequently and understand how to check.
Secondly, they need to be the kind of documents that would allow Monzo to follow up with the issuer if there was ever a problem. Having any letter with your address on it isn’t good enough.
Providing a water bill with your account number and details of a well-known water company means Monzo can, in principle, contact them to check if the letter is real.
Are high street banks any better?
Traditional banks with a high street presence tend to have more flexible rules for what they can accept as proof of address.
Some even offer specialist products for those who can’t show proof of address, like HSBC’s No Fixed Address account, offered in partnership with Shelter.
Are there any digital options?
There are a range of prepaid cards that are intended for people who might not have standard proof of address or identity, including SuitsMe and Pockit.
We recommend DOSH, which provides a Monzo-like app-first experience for sending, receiving and managing your money, but provides much more flexible identity and address verification options.
Along with the standard verification options, DOSH allows you to onboard with the help of a trusted referee, which is ideal for those who have recently moved, or who might not have recent proof of address.
DOSH will send you a physical Mastercard to spend your money online or at in-person retailers, and they work with the Post Office to allow you to pay in cash or make withdrawals.
DOSH’s parent company, allpay, is well established and FCA-regulated.
You can apply for a DOSH card here.
