Pay by bank account

We’re gradually introducing Pay by bank account, so you may see this as a new payment option when you next log in to top up your savings.

A new way to top up your savings

We’re introducing a new way to top up your NS&I savings accounts: Pay by bank account.

It means you can make deposits through our website without needing to enter your card details or any reference numbers, so it’s quick and easy to use. And it's highly secure as you will approve each payment through your bank’s own app or website.

How it works

When you use Pay by bank account we’ll securely transfer you from our website to your bank’s app or online banking website to approve the payment. Because you are doing this directly through your bank, you benefit from your own bank’s security. With many banks you can also check your balance before any money leaves your account – putting you in complete control.

What do I need to get started?

  • An NS&I account that you can top up online
  • A UK bank account that you can access online through your bank’s app or website

Is it safe?

Yes, it’s very safe. Pay by bank account is based on Open Banking technology, which has been established in the UK for over 5 years. We use a trusted provider called Ecospend to securely connect with all the major banks in the UK, and most of the smaller banks too. Ecospend is an authorised payment institution regulated by the FCA.

Find out more about Open Banking

Find out more about Ecospend

How to use it

Follow our step by step guide:

  • Carousel step 1 login image
  • Carousel step 2 pay money in/buy more bonds image
  • Carousel step 3 pay by bank account image
  • Carousel step 4 choose bank image
  • Carousel step 5 confirm amount image
  • Carousel step 6 transfer to banking app image
  • Carousel step 7 approve from bank image
  • Carousel step 8 steps complete image

Handy tips


  • If you use your bank’s app on your smartphone or tablet and can use your face or fingerprint to log in, you won’t even have to enter your bank’s password.
  • Even if you log in to our website on a computer, you can still approve the payment in your bank's app by scanning a QR code – you can find out more below.

More FAQs