Nearly a million adults in the UK don’t have access to a traditional bank account. That lack of access can make everyday things like paying rent, starting work or receiving benefits much harder than they need to be.
DOSH exists to remove some of those barriers, offering a simple prepaid Mastercard® account designed for real life.
A Real Issue Affecting Everyday Life
Financial exclusion isn’t about poor money choices. It’s often about systems that don’t work for everyone. People without access to a bank account may struggle to:
- Pay rent or household bills
- Receive wages or benefits
- Set up Direct Debits
- Manage money safely and confidently
For people already dealing with housing insecurity, migration challenges or benefit transitions, these barriers can quickly increase creating wider poverty and financial pressure.
Why Financial Inclusion Still Matters in the UK
Despite a well‑developed financial system, around 0.9 million adults in the UK remain unbanked.
Many are:
- Social housing tenants
- People receiving benefits
- Migrants or those without standard forms of ID
Without access to suitable money tools, staying financially stable becomes much harder. Financial inclusion is about giving people options, dignity and practical ways to off money help and support. This is backed by the UK’s financial inclusion strategy.
Where DOSH Fits In
DOSH is a prepaid Mastercard® account, not a bank. It’s been built for people who may find traditional accounts difficult to access or unsuitable for their needs. The aim is simple: make everyday money tasks easier to manage, without unnecessary complexity.
DOSH has been developed with support from allpay, drawing on over 30 years of experience working with the UK public sector and community organisations. Register your interest here.
What Makes DOSH Different
DOSH focuses on simplicity, clarity and human support. Key features include:
- A digital prepaid account with a contactless Mastercard®
- Support for Faster Payments and Direct Debits
- A secure mobile app for everyday money management
- Card controls and fraud protection tools
- Real human support when help is needed
- Clear, plain‑English communication
- Simple onboarding, including flexible ID routes
DOSH isn’t about replacing banks. It’s about offering an alternative that works for people who need something different.
Key Features:
- Digital account and prepaid contactless Mastercard
- Faster payments and support for Direct Debits
- Transparent money management via a secure mobile app
- Card controls and fraud protection
- Real human support, not just chatbots
- Easy onboarding, even without traditional forms of ID
- Clear, jargon-free communication with no hidden fees
Working With Communities and Organisations
Financial inclusion works best when it’s local and joined up. DOSH works alongside:
- Local authorities
- Housing associations
- Charities and support providers
These organisations understand the people they support. DOSH provides an additional option they can signpost to, helping individuals manage money more easily and independently. Partner with us today.
Looking Ahead
Financial exclusion isn’t limited to the UK. Across Europe, millions of people still rely on informal or limited financial services. DOSH has been built with scale in mind, but the focus remains practical and grounded: helping people take steps from exclusion towards empowerment, at their own pace.
f you want to learn more about DOSH or be among the first to access the service:
👉 https://www.mydosh.com/register-your-interest/
If you’re an organisation supporting people with money challenges, explore how DOSH can complement your existing support.
Check out our frequently asked question
👉 https://www.mydosh.com/register-your-interest/
The DOSH prepaid card is issued by allpay Ltd pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated. allpay Ltd is a company regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. (FRN 900539) for the issuance of electronic money. Head office and registered address: Fortis et Fides, Whitestone Business Park, Whitestone Hereford, Herefordshire, HR1 3SE (Company No 02933191). Mastercard® is a registered trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
🚀 Learn more about DOSH here – https://www.mydosh.com/join/
🚀 Register your interest – https://www.mydosh.com/corporate/
🚀 Free, impartial money guidance – https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en
FAQ’s
What is DOSH and how does it work?
DOSH is an electronic money account issued by allpay Limited. It comes with a prepaid Mastercard® and is managed through the DOSH app. You can add money, receive payments and use the card to pay in shops or online. You can only spend what’s in your account.
What’s the difference between DOSH and a bank account?
DOSH offers everyday money features, but there are some key differences:
- No overdrafts, loans or credit
- No credit checks
- Digital‑only service
- Funds are safeguarded, not FSCS‑protected
This makes DOSH a practical option for people who need something simpler.
Who can open a DOSH account?
Anyone aged 18 or over and living in the UK can apply for a DOSH account. You don’t need a credit history and there’s no credit check. DOSH may accept alternative forms of ID if you don’t have standard documents.
Why was DOSH piloted before going live?
The pilot phase helped test DOSH in real‑world settings with partners and users. This feedback shaped how the service works today, helping ensure it’s clear, practical and built around everyday needs.
Is DOSH suitable for long‑term money management?
DOSH is designed for everyday use, such as receiving payments, paying bills and managing spending. It does not offer credit or savings products, so it may suit people who want a straightforward way to manage money without borrowing.