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Updated 3 July 2026 - Protection
App Banks with FSCS ProtectionWhat to compare in 2026
If you want an app-based bank but still care about deposit protection, the key question is whether eligible deposits are protected by the FSCS or whether funds are safeguarded instead.
Quick answer
Monzo, Starling, Chase, Kroo, Zopa, Atom and Tandem are all useful app-based providers to compare if FSCS protection is important to you. Wise and Monese are different because they are not standard FSCS-protected UK bank accounts.
What this page is
- Helps readers compare banks for protection using features, fees, protection and practical fit.
- Highlights watch-outs and links to wider comparison pages before readers choose a provider.
What this page is not
- Does not provide personalised financial advice or guarantee eligibility for any account or product.
- Does not replace checking live provider rates, fees, terms and protection wording before applying.
What to compare first
Before looking at individual banks, check the features, fees and limitations that matter most for this type of account.
Access rules
Compare easy-access, notice and fixed-term rules before assuming money is flexible.
Protection
Confirm FSCS status, provider licence details and whether brands share protection limits.
Deposit and withdrawal limits
Check minimum balances, maximum deposits, withdrawal penalties and transfer timing.
Banks to Compare
Review each bank's strengths, limitations and key checks for this guide. The order does not imply an overall ranking.
Atom Bank
Also compare for protection
Atom is included so this guide covers every digital bank we currently review, even where it may not be the strongest option for this specific need.
Digital bankReview includedCompare
Watch
Check the provider's current account, fees, eligibility, protection and product terms before choosing.
Chase UK
FSCS with cashback and savings
Chase is backed by JPMorgan Chase and offers FSCS protection on eligible deposits, plus savings and cashback features.
FSCSCashbackSavings
Watch
The UK product range is narrower than some full-service banks.
Kroo
FSCS with ethical positioning
Kroo is a UK bank with FSCS protection and a simple current account focused on transparency and fee-free use.
FSCSEthicalTravel
Watch
It has fewer extra products than larger digital banks.
Monese
Also compare for protection
Monese is included so this guide covers every digital bank we currently review, even where it may not be the strongest option for this specific need.
Digital bankReview includedCompare
Watch
Check the provider's current account, fees, eligibility, protection and product terms before choosing.
Monzo
FSCS with budgeting tools
Monzo is a fully licensed UK bank with strong budgeting features and FSCS protection for eligible deposits.
FSCSBudgetingPots
Watch
Savings products can involve partner providers, so check the exact protection wording.
Revolut
Also compare for protection
Revolut is included so this guide covers every digital bank we currently review, even where it may not be the strongest option for this specific need.
Digital bankReview includedCompare
Watch
Check the provider's current account, fees, eligibility, protection and product terms before choosing.
Starling Bank
FSCS-protected main account
Starling combines FSCS protection with a strong free current account, budgeting tools and travel features.
FSCSCurrent accountTravel
Watch
Check product terms for specific savings products and account limits.
Tandem
Also compare for protection
Tandem is included so this guide covers every digital bank we currently review, even where it may not be the strongest option for this specific need.
Digital bankReview includedCompare
Watch
Check the provider's current account, fees, eligibility, protection and product terms before choosing.
Wise
Also compare for protection
Wise is included so this guide covers every digital bank we currently review, even where it may not be the strongest option for this specific need.
Digital bankReview includedCompare
Watch
Check the provider's current account, fees, eligibility, protection and product terms before choosing.
Zempler Bank
Also compare for protection
Zempler is included so this guide covers every digital bank we currently review, even where it may not be the strongest option for this specific need.
Digital bankReview includedCompare
Watch
Check the provider's current account, fees, eligibility, protection and product terms before choosing.
Zopa
FSCS savings and credit products
Zopa is useful to compare if you want app-based savings, credit products and FSCS protection.
FSCSSavingsCredit
Watch
It is less of a full everyday current account ecosystem than Monzo or Starling.
What to check before choosing
- Check the provider is a bank, not only an e-money institution.
- Check whether savings are held with the same banking licence.
- Remember the FSCS limit applies per person, per authorised firm.
- Use official provider terms before holding large balances.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you compare banks.
How should I use this protection guide?
Monzo, Starling, Chase, Kroo, Zopa, Atom and Tandem are all useful app-based providers to compare if FSCS protection is important to you. Wise and Monese are different because they are not standard FSCS-protected UK bank accounts.
Compare banks →What should I check before choosing?
Check the provider is a bank, not only an e-money institution. Check whether savings are held with the same banking licence. Remember the FSCS limit applies per person, per authorised firm.
Continue researching →How does BankAdvisor compare banks?
We compare banks using provider information, review criteria and practical checks such as fees, features, protection, eligibility and limitations.
Read how we review banks →Are the banks listed fairly?
Yes. The cards are intended to help readers compare strengths, limitations and key checks. The order does not imply an overall ranking.
Compare the full list →Continue researching
Related reviews and guides
Compare banks side-by-side
Use the full comparison table to compare fees, protection, savings, travel and everyday features.