If you are staying in the UK for more than six months, it may be useful to open a UK bank account. There are a lot of advantages of having a UK current (checking) account. Paying bills Many landlords prefer to collect rent directly from a bank account. You may be able to obtain cheaper services if you pay bills directly from a bank account, e.g. telephone/gas/water/electricity. If you are given a chequebook, you can also write cheques as a safe way of paying things. Cash Yon can easily obtain money from cash machines, or pay directly from your account using a debit card. Saving money It is generally cheaper to use a UK account than it is to pay by credit card or withdraw cash from a foreign bank. Employment If you work in the UK, some employers require you to have a bank account so that you can get your pay. Advantages of UK Current Account Paying bills: 1) to pay rent directly at (1) . 2) to obtain (2) services 3) to pay things with cheques safely Cash: 1) to obtain money from (3) easily 2) to pay directly from your account Saving money: cheaper to use a (4) account Employment: to get your (5) through a bank account