Documents are usually rejected because they're the wrong type, too old, or the scan isn't clear enough. Here's what's accepted, and how to get it right first time.
Getting the scan right
- Upload colour scans or photos of the original documents. Black-and-white copies aren't accepted.
- Make sure all four corners and edges are visible.
- Avoid glare from a flash, and make sure all the text is readable.
- For statements from online banking, upload the PDF, not a screenshot.
Proof of identity
Accepted documents include:
- a UK or EU passport
- an EU/EEA national ID card, with separate proof of address
- a non-EU passport, with proof of your right to live in the UK, such as your visa or residence document
- a UK driving licence
- UK military ID
A driving licence can count as proof of identity or proof of address, not both.
Proof of address
Accepted documents include:
- a utility bill from the last three months
- a council tax bill, or a government or housing benefit letter, from the last 12 months
- a bank or credit card statement
- a UK driving licence, if you haven't used it as your ID
If your name appears only as initials, you may be asked for more proof.
Bank statements
- Three months, consecutive, showing every transaction.
- For the personal account the loan will be paid into. See Do I need a business bank account?.
- Downloaded as a PDF, or scanned. Screenshots aren't accepted.
Still stuck?
Your advisor can tell you exactly what was wrong with a document and what to send instead. See What documents do I need? for the full list of what you need.
Last reviewed: 8 October 2026