Compare the account’s AER, access rules and any minimum deposit, withdrawal limits or introductory bonus period before applying. Check whether the provider is authorised by the FCA and whether eligible deposits are protected by the FSCS, subject to its current limits and rules. You’ll usually need your personal details, National Insurance number and identification, and the provider may carry out electronic checks. Also consider whether the interest is variable and whether you may need to declare savings interest to HMRC.