Finance and Banking

Opening a Bank Account

You will need a bank account to receive wages, social welfare payments, or student grants. 

Main banks in Ireland:

  • Bank of Ireland
  • AIB - Allied Irish Banks 
  • Permanent TSB 
  • Credit Unions - offers savings, loans, and current accounts locally. 

Many banks now allow online account opening using a smartphone app. 

Bank Accounts

If you do not already have one you can open a basic bank account with any of the Banks above. A basic bank account is a current account that is free of charge for everyday banking for at least the first year. For more information, visit Basic Bank Accounts. 

The BPFI have created an information guide that aims to make the process of opening an account as easy as possible for asylum seekers and refugees by outlining step by step how the process works, what to expect and the documents required. 

To view a guide on how to open a bank account, visit Guide to Opening Basic Bank Accounts in Ireland. 

Budgeting and Financial Advice

Managing your money can be challenging when you're new to a country or adjusting to a new job.

The following services can help you plan your budget and avoid debt:

Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS)
MABS is the Irish money advice service. They offer help with debt and budgeting.
You can get impartial advice from MABS to help you manage your money and take control of debt. They offer support online, over the phone and face-to-face. 

Citizens Information Service (CIS)
Provides advice on welfare, housing, money, and employment.

Credit Unions 
Offers small loans, savings accounts, and free financial education programmes. 

Paying Bills and Everyday Costs

You can pay most household bills online, by direct debit, or in person through:

  • An Post BillPay - available at post offices across Longford 
  • Online Banking or Mobile Apps - available through your bank or credit unions
  • Household Utility Providers - register online for services such as EBS, Irish Water, and broadband providers. 

If you need support with electricity or heating costs, check your eligibility for the Fuel Allowance or Exceptional Needs Payment through your Intreo Centre. 

Protecting Yourself from Financial Scams

Be cautious of phone calls, texts, or emails asking for bank details, passwords, or PIN numbers.
Banks and government departments will never request this information by phone or email. 

If you think you've been targeted by a scam:

  • Contact your bank immediately
  • Report it to An Garda Siochána at your local station

Learn more about how to protect yourself:
FraudSMART - Bank of Ireland and AIB initiative.