BarclayPlus current account review
- Minimum age
- 11 Years
- Interest (AER)
- 0.1% AER
- Minimum opening balance
- £1
Our verdict
The BarclayPlus account has a lot going for it, but there are extra hoops to jump through if you're not an existing customer.
With interest paid on balances (albeit at a low level) and a choice of a cash card or debit card the BarclayPlus makes a respectable training account. There's also the added perk of your child being able to design their own card.
However, keep in mind that once your child reaches 16, they'll need to apply for a new account. It's also worth comparing other children's accounts to make sure this is definitely the best account for you.
Check out our guide to best bank accounts for more information.
Pros
-
Banking app adapted for children
-
Account pays interest on credit balances
-
No monthly maintenance fees
-
Easy to open via video banking if parent/guardian banks with Barclays
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FSCS protection
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Choice of cash card or debit card
Cons
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Interest is minimal and only paid on balances up to £999.99
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Account must be opened in branch if parent/guardian is not a Barclays customer
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Your child will need to be at least 11 to apply
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No savings features
Details
Product overview
| Account name | BarclayPlus |
| Provider | Barclays Bank |
| Account fee | £0 |
| Interest (AER) | 0.1% AER |
| ATM withdrawal limit | £500 |
| Debit network | Visa |
| Card type | Cash / Debit |
| Minimum eligibility age | 11 Years |
| Minimum operating balance | £1 |
| Minimum opening balance | £1 |
| Direct debits | |
| Current account switch guarantee | |
| Cheque Book |
Fees
| Currency conversion withdrawal for overseas cash withdrawal in Europe (EEA) | 2.99% |
| Currency conversion withdrawal for overseas cash withdrawal in non-Europe (EEA) | 2.99% |
| Foreign cash transaction fee in Europe | £0 |
| Foreign cash transaction fee in rest of world | £0 |
Overdraft information
| Arranged overdraft available |
Opening a bank account for your child can be a great way to encourage financial independence and teach your child about money early on. This review looks at the BarclayPlus account to see if it could work for you and your child.
What is the BarclayPlus current account?
The BarclayPlus current account is designed for those aged 11 to 15. It has no monthly fee and your child can design their own card using their favourite photo. You’ll also have a choice of a cash card or a debit card, and the account can be managed via the app, which has been adapted to suit children.
How does it work?
The key features of the BarclayPlus account are outlined below:
- No monthly fee. There is no monthly maintenance fee for this account.
- A choice of a cash card or debit card. Cash cards can only be used to withdraw money from cash machines, while debit cards can be used to pay for items in shops and online. Parental permission will be required for a debit card.
- Design your card. Your child can design their card using their favourite photo.
- Interest paid on balances. A small amount of interest is paid on balances – this is 0.1% AER variable on balances up to £999.99 and 0.6% AER (variable) on anything over this.
- App for children. Your child can send money, view account balances and report their card as lost or stolen.
Who is it for?
The BarclayPlus account is for children aged 11 to 15 who are UK residents. It’s designed to help them develop good money habits and encourage financial independence.
What are the benefits?
One of the main benefits of the account is that there is no monthly fee. It also offers a choice of a cash card or debit card, so you can decide what you’re more comfortable with. For example, you might prefer a cash card for an 11-year-old, but a debit card for a 14- or 15-year-old.
How to apply
If you, as a parent or guardian, bank with Barclays, your child can open their account via video banking. You will need to download the video banking app and make the call. Your child will need to be present and show their passport or birth certificate.
If you don’t bank with Barclays, or you don’t have the app, you will need to apply in branch. Your child will need to bring their ID and you as their parent/guardian will need to bring your debit card and PIN or proof of ID.
Is it safe?
Yes, Barclays is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This means eligible deposits will be protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) up to £85,000 per person.
Overdrafts are not available for under 18s, so there’s no need to worry about debt.
Frequently asked questions
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