Yes, but it can often be quite involved and requires a personal appointment at a bank branch. Some high-street bank accounts available to appointees also have restrictions, such as balance limitations as low as £3000, making them unpractical and unfit for purpose.
This is one of the reasons Money Carer has developed a unique and comprehensive Appointee Bank Account with Zempler Bank.
The account can be opened online, is free of charge and has been designed specifically to support DWP appointees using our Monika Banking Platform in the same way as our hundreds of solicitors and local authority partners.
Visit the Monika Banking Platform site to learn more about opening a free DWP Appointee Bank Account
When managing a bank account as a DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) benefits appointee, there are specific responsibilities and general rules to follow to ensure that the benefits are used properly on behalf of the individual you are representing. These include:
1. Use the Account Exclusively for the Beneficiary
- Open a dedicated bank account in the beneficiary’s name (or jointly with your name as the appointee) to manage their DWP benefits.
- Ensure that all money in the account is used exclusively for the beneficiary’s needs, such as rent, bills, food, and care.
2. Keep Records of All Transactions
- Maintain clear records of how you spend the beneficiary’s money, including receipts and bank statements. The DWP may request evidence to ensure the funds are being managed appropriately.
- Track income and expenses to avoid financial discrepancies.
3. Avoid Mixing Personal Funds
- Do not mix your own money with the beneficiary’s funds to prevent confusion or accusations of mismanagement.
- If you’re the appointee for multiple individuals, keep separate accounts for each person.
4. Act in the Beneficiary’s Best Interests
- Make all financial decisions based on the beneficiary’s needs and preferences, not your own.
- Ensure essential bills and care costs are prioritized over discretionary spending.
5. Communicate with the Beneficiary (if Possible)
- If the beneficiary is capable of understanding, involve them in financial decisions to the extent possible.
6. Stay Within Legal Boundaries
- Do not borrow money from the account or use it for personal gain.
- Adhere to the appointee agreement you made with the DWP, which includes managing the funds responsibly.
7. Monitor Benefits Eligibility
- Notify the DWP of any changes in the beneficiary’s circumstances, such as changes in living arrangements, income, or health, which might affect their eligibility for benefits.
8. Review and Report as Required
- Be prepared to provide a report to the DWP if they conduct a review of your appointeeship.
- Inform the DWP immediately if you can no longer act as the appointee.
9. Protect Against Fraud
- Keep the account secure by not sharing the PIN, passwords, or account details with unauthorized individuals.
- Monitor the account regularly for any unusual activity.
10. Understand Your Appointee Status
- The appointeeship gives you the authority to manage DWP benefits, but it does not grant broader legal authority, such as making decisions about non-DWP income or other financial assets unless otherwise specified (e.g., via power of attorney).
If you’re unsure about any specific rules or situations, it’s always best to consult the DWP or seek financial/legal advice to ensure you’re managing the account in compliance with regulations.
For further information about becoming a DWP appointee, please download our appointee guide for family members.