What to do if you need help looking after your account

Life is full of shifts and changes, and sometimes managing an account is easier with help. Whether you’re looking to get or give help, we have third party access options that can make it happen.

Trusted access is a secure, straightforward way to ensure that even when things get complicated, money stays simple.

If you've already arranged the legal documents for formal third-party access, you or the third party can set up access by filling out our form. We also have informal access options you can set up from our form.

Our Life Events team will review your info and get everything set up. You can email them with any questions at lifeevents@monzo.com.

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What does "trusted access" actually mean?

Think of it as a secure way to share the load. It lets you choose someone you trust like a partner, family member, or close friend to help look after your Monzo account.

The best part is that you’re in the driver’s seat. You decide exactly what they can do, whether that’s just keeping an eye on your balance to make sure everything is okay, or helping you stay on top of your bills.

It’s all about creating a safety net. That way, you have the peace of mind that your money is being handled exactly how you’d want it to be, even if you’re not the one doing the day-to-day admin.

Finding the right fit for your situation

Everyone’s needs are different, and there’s no "one size fits all" when it comes to managing your money. You might just need temporary help while you’re recovering from an illness, or you could be putting a long-term plan in place for the years ahead.

Because the names and rules for different types of third-party access vary depending on where you are in the UK, it’s important to start by looking at what’s available where you are.

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Informal access

This is a flexible way to give someone you trust a visibility on your account, without giving them full legal control.

How it works: It’s a simple agreement between you, a trusted person, and Monzo. Because it isn’t based on a formal legal document, it doesn’t affect any of your other financial arrangements.

What they can do: Your trusted person can view and monitor your account through their own Monzo app. They can keep an eye on your balance and transactions to help you stay on track. They can’t make payments, move money, or manage your cards.

Why choose this: It’s the right option if you need a helping hand with your budgeting or some extra support to keep your finances running smoothly.

How to apply: You can apply for informal access by completing our trusted access web form, or contacting our Life Events team using lifeevents@monzo.com.

Image of a person holding their phone and looking at their Monzo app in one hand, and holding the hot coral card in their other hand.

Formal access

This is a secure way to give someone full legal authority to manage your Monzo account on your behalf.

How it works: It’s based on a formal legal document, such as a Power of Attorney or a Court of Protection order.

What they can do: Once set up, your trusted person will have full access to your account through their own Monzo app. They'll be able to make payments, set up Direct Debits, and manage your cards just as you would.

Why choose this: It’s the right option if you need someone to take over the day-to-day admin of your finances for the long term.

You’re in control

It’s still your account, and your money.

Unlike a joint account, where you share ownership, trusted access is purely about getting a helping hand. You’re not giving your money away; you’re just letting someone you trust help you manage things.

Ready to get started?

Whether you’re setting up access for yourself or someone you care about, we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible.

Start your application: If you have your documents ready, you can start by filling out our online form. Once you’ve submitted it, our team will take a look and guide you through the next steps.

Ask us a question: Not sure which option is right for you? Our dedicated Life Events team is here to help. Send us an email at lifeevents@monzo.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Further support

If you need more detailed legal advice or want to start a formal application, these official bodies are the best place to begin. They oversee all legal arrangements in the UK to ensure everyone’s interests are protected.

England and Wales: Contact the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) for help with Lasting Powers of Attorney and Deputyship.

Scotland: Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) manages Power of Attorney and Guardianship orders for Scottish residents.

Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland Direct Government Services (OCP) for guidance on Enduring Power of Attorney and the Office of Care and Protection.

Looking for more help? We know that managing finances during big life changes can be overwhelming. Citizens Advice have a detailed guide on managing affairs for someone else.

For a wider range of charities and organisations that offer free, impartial advice, take a look at our Signposting page.

Third Party Access FAQs

What it means to be a trusted person

What it means to be a trusted person: We’ve written this to help Monzo customers understand their options, but it’s just as important if you’re the one being asked to help. Taking on this role is a big deal, and it shows how much you’re trusted.

Here’s some of things you should consider when acting as a trusted person

Put them first: Always prioritise what’s best for the person you’re helping. Try to make choices that reflect their wishes and instructions as closely as possible.

Know your boundaries: Stick to the limits of the access you’ve been given and avoid any actions that could create a conflict of interest.

Encourage independence: Whenever you can, support them in making their own decisions. Offer clear information and a comfortable space to talk things through.

Think about their values: Consider their beliefs and how they’ve handled things in the past. It’s often helpful to chat with their family, friends, or carers to get a fuller picture of what they’d want.

Remember, you were chosen for this role because of the trust they have in you. By acting with care and integrity, you're helping them stay financially secure.

Who are the OPG and OCP?

The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) and the Office of Care and Protection (OCP) are the official government bodies that oversee legal arrangements like Power of Attorney. They make sure everything is registered correctly and that the account holders best interests are always protected.

Does it cost anything to set this up with Monzo?

We don’t charge any fees to add a trusted person to your account. However, keep in mind that the government usually charges a fee to register formal legal documents like an LPA.

Can I cancel or change access at any time?

Yes. For informal access, you can ask us to remove it whenever you like. For formal legal arrangements, you can usually revoke them as long as you still have the mental capacity to do so. Our Life Events team can guide you through how to do this safely