In this article, we’re exploring the building society roll number, how it compares to account numbers, how you find your roll number and more.
We will also be answering common questions we receive from our members about roll numbers and UK banking more broadly.
This article is part of our free series on banking in the UK and opening a UK bank account without proof of address, which you can access by clicking here.
Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to the sections most relevant to you.
Table of Contents
- Building Society Roll Number
- Are Building Societies Different From Banks?
- How Do I Find My Building Society Roll Number?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Ready to Unlock the Benefits of UK Banking?
Building Society Roll Number
A building society roll number is a membership number assigned to account holders at certain financial institutions in the United Kingdom known as building societies. Unlike an account number, which is used for account identification, a roll number is used for identifying membership details.Â
Before diving in, if this is your first time visiting GlobalBanks, don’t forget to download your FREE Non-Resident Banking Starter Guide. It’s designed to help non-residents open an international bank account in top banking hubs around the world.
Are Building Societies Different From Banks?
Yes, building societies are different from banks in three key ways, which include ownership structure, areas of focus, and community focus. Here’s a closer look at each of these key differences.
Ownership Structure
While banks are owned by shareholders (privately or publicly) building societies are typically owned by their members who are also customers of the bank.
Areas of Focus
Building societies tend to offer a home-centric product offering including basic bank accounts and mortgages while banks tend to offer a wide range of services, including corporate and private lending, credit cards, business services, and more.
Community Focus
Banks tend to have regional and national coverage allowing them to serve a broad segment of prospective clients while building societies tend to be more focused on individual communities, geographies, or demographics.
How Do I Find My Building Society Roll Number?
You can find your building society roll number by accessing your account information through online banking, on any account statement, your membership card, and even account related emails. That said, there are other places where you can find your building society roll number as well, including the following.
How Do I Find My Building Society Roll Number?
- Online banking
- Account statement
- Membership card
- Mobile application
- Visiting a branch in person
- Emails from your building society
- Check statements
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are four of the most common questions we receive from people looking into what a building society roll number is. If you have further questions you would like to ask our team, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
What Is a Building Society?
A building society is a financial institution that offers accounts, financing, and various banking products. In general, they operate in a similar way to banks, though they have different ownership structures, their areas of focus are more community-based, and they tend to emphasize membership ownership and shared principles.
Are Building Society Roll Numbers Used for International Money Transfers?
No, building society roll numbers are not used for international money transfers. Instead, they are used within the building society in order to direct funds and track member activities accordingly. When sending international money transfers, an international bank account number (IBAN) or a combination of SWIFT code and account number is used.
Does Everyone Have Building Society Roll Numbers?
No, not everyone has building society roll numbers. Only those individuals who have an account with a building society that specifically issues building society roll numbers to their members will have one.
Is a Building Society Number the Same As an Account Number?
No, a building society number (or a roll number) is not the same as an account number. Instead, a building society number is an identifier used internally by a building society to track the activity of an individual member. On the other hand, an account number is used to track the activity within a specific account.
Ready to Unlock the Benefits of UK Banking?
If you’re seeking better banking options, diversification, or enhanced privacy—our International Account Opening Service is your fastest, most effective path forward.
Trusted by high-net-worth-individuals and 8-figure businesses, it’s a fully personalized solution backed by real experts, with real results.
Here’s what you can expect:
✅ Direct support from our international banking experts—so you’re never stuck guessing what to do next.
✅ Prequalification with banks that match your profile and actually want you (or your business) as a customer.
✅ Custom strategies to overcome any challenges and help you open the accounts you need—whether you’re a non-resident, entrepreneur, investor, or global citizen.
✅ Personal introductions to banks that perfectly match your profile (not random suggestions you have to cold-call yourself).
✅ Answers to tough questions about documentation, compliance, and what works in today’s evolving banking climate.
✅ Guaranteed account opening because we will keep working with you until you successfully open the bank account you need.
And yes—GlobalBanks’ International Account Opening Service is purpose-built for foreign and non-resident individuals and companies.
But, spots are limited and we only accept qualified applicants—so if you’re ready to move forward, take 60 seconds to complete your free assessment.
