Bank Accounts That Accept Customers with CIFAS Markers
Being CIFAS-marked doesn't mean you can't bank. Here are your options — and how to get the marker removed.
Why Most Banks Reject CIFAS-Marked Customers
CIFAS is a shared fraud prevention database with 775+ member organisations. When you apply for a bank account, the bank runs a CIFAS check as part of their application process. If an active marker is found, most banks will automatically refuse to open an account. Basic bank accounts are sometimes available but offer limited functionality.
CIFAS is shared across 775+ member organisations
Most banks will refuse to open an account if you have an active marker
Basic bank accounts are sometimes available but limited (no overdraft, no credit)
The marker stays on your file for 6 years unless challenged and removed
Accounts That MAY Accept CIFAS-Marked Customers
Suits Me
E-money accountNo overdraft · No credit · Contactless payments · Direct debits
Prepaid e-money account, not a full bank account
Pockit
Prepaid accountNo overdraft · No credit · Contactless · Bank transfers
Prepaid account with limited functionality
Monese
E-money accountNo overdraft · No credit · International transfers · Contactless
E-money account, not a full bank account
Cashplus
Prepaid cardNo overdraft · No credit · ATM access · Direct debits
Prepaid card with basic banking features
Wise
E-money accountNo overdraft · No credit · Multi-currency · International transfers
E-money account focused on transfers
These are prepaid/e-money accounts, not full bank accounts. They have no overdraft facility, no credit, and limited features. They are better than nothing while you fight the marker — but they are not a long-term solution.
The Real Solution: Remove the Marker
Don't settle for a prepaid account. Challenge the marker. Most CIFAS markers are removable within 3–6 months through the bank complaint process and FOS escalation if needed. Once removed, your CIFAS file is clean and you can open a normal bank account with any high street bank.
Don't settle for a prepaid account — challenge the marker
Most markers are removable within 3–6 months
Once removed, you can open a normal bank account anywhere
We handle the entire challenge process from DSAR to FOS
What to Do Right Now
Get a Prepaid Account
For immediate banking needs (receiving salary, paying bills), open a prepaid/e-money account like Suits Me or Pockit. This is a stopgap, not a solution.
Submit a DSAR
Submit a DSAR to Cifas to find out exactly what marker was filed, who filed it, and when. This is free and takes up to 30 days.
Get a Free Assessment
Send us your DSAR results. We'll review them and tell you honestly whether your marker is challengeable — at no cost.
Start the Challenge Process
If challengeable, we begin the removal process immediately — DSAR to the bank, formal complaint, and FOS escalation if needed.
Bank Accounts & CIFAS FAQ
No. Monzo, Starling, and Revolut are all Cifas members and run CIFAS checks during account opening. An active marker will result in automatic rejection. You need to remove the marker first.
Some high street banks offer basic bank accounts that may accept customers with CIFAS markers, but these have limited features (no overdraft, no credit). Availability varies and most still run CIFAS checks.
Once your CIFAS marker is removed — typically 3–6 months through our challenge process — you can open a normal bank account with any bank. Your CIFAS file will be clean and no bank will see the previous marker.
Prepaid e-money accounts are regulated by the FCA but do not have the same protections as full bank accounts (FSCS deposit protection). They are a temporary solution while you challenge the marker — not a long-term banking arrangement.
Open a prepaid account (Suits Me, Pockit) for immediate needs, then start the marker removal process immediately. The sooner you start, the sooner you'll have a clean CIFAS file and can open a normal account.
Don't Settle for a Prepaid Account
Challenge your marker and get back to normal banking. Most markers are removable in 3–6 months. From £249 to start.
Or £249 deposit + 6 monthly payments of £75 · No credit check · ICO registered
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