Monzo Review 2025 – a Smart Bank on your Smartphone

Monzo, founded in 2015, is a bank that lives on your smartphone. Over 1 million people are now managing their account through the Monzo smartphone app. You can use Monzo to do the basic things you’d expect from a traditional bank, as well as much, much more. And even though it’s an app, you can get help from real humans, whenever you need it.

I’ve been banking with Monzo for over 5 years now so I thought that it was about time that we took a look at all of the features of the card and app. Carry on reading my Monzo review.

Monzo banking app

Monzo Review: The bank that lives on your phone

How does Monzo work?

Monzo is one of the big players when it comes to digital banking. Using mobile app technology, they are on a mission to streamline your personal finance experience. After you’ve signed up for account, you’re issued with a bright orange contactless Mastercard. This card is controlled via the app, and offers instant notifications on each transaction you make.

You can break your transactions down into different categories (bills, groceries, travel, etc.) and displayed them in an easy-to-understand format to help you keep a record of your spending habits. You can change how each transaction is themed too!

Can I open an account?

UK residents aged 16 or over can apply for a Monzo account. Apply online or through the app, (available in both the App Store and Google Play Store). Once registered, customers will receive an account number and sort code, enabling them to receive salary payments and bank transfers directly. Signing up for an account does not involve a full credit check and therefore won’t affect your credit score.

Monzo Savings Accounts

Monzo offers a range of savings accounts designed to help users achieve their financial goals with ease and flexibility. With features like competitive interest rates, no minimum deposit requirements, and easy-to-use mobile banking, Monzo savings accounts empower users to grow their savings effortlessly.

Monzo help you to save up for specific short-term or long term financial goals with their ‘ savings pots’. Your savings can be placed in to different pots for particular purposes (e.g. holiday fund, car insurance, emergency fund). Once in these pots, your saved money won’t appear in your available balance so they can’t be spent accidentally. 

Plus, with the convenience of round-ups and automated savings features, users can effortlessly boost their savings while managing their everyday spending.

Monzo Review best bits:

  • It’s safe! Boasting full FSCS protection which provides compensation for the loss of up to £85,000
  • A Full UK Current Account, meaning that you can receive money, make direct debit payments and bank transfers and open an overdraft.
  • Receive an instant notification when you make a transaction (no waiting 3 days for your bank to display up-to-date account details).
  • Send and receive money by sending your own personalised link to friends and family.
  • Lost your card? Freeze it instantly using the app!
  • Rated as one of the “best buys” for ethical banking by Ethical Consumer.

What is Monzo Plus?

The plus account allows you to view all your other bank accounts, credit cards and credit score in the Monzo app. With plus you’re able to personalise your spending breakdown by putting payments into custom categories and protect yourself online too with virtual cards and even auto-export transaction details to a spreadsheet if you want to.

The holographic Monzo cards are exclusive to Plus account holders. And you will be able to access exclusive offers including HelloFresh, Naked Wines, Babylon Health, and Busuu.

The plus account does come at a cost. It’s £3 a month. This plus account is still a working progress so I would hold off for now.

I originally signed up to Monzo to get the sign up offer (because free money!) and have stuck with them due to how great their app is. They are branded as the bank of the future and I can’t disagree. With constant recommendations, and being one of the top ‘ethical financial products’ I can’t recommend them enough!

Sign up to Monzo

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