How do NHS staff get paid?
NHS staff are paid in a similar way to most staff in similar large organisations, via electronic bank transfer (BACS). These payments usually take place towards the end of the month.
To be paid by BACS you need to provide your NHS organisation with the following details when you join:
- Your bank account number (usually 8 digits)
- Your bank sort code (usually 6 digits)
- The name on your account
If you have recently joined an NHS organisation or moved NHS jobs and you haven’t been asked for these details, you should contact your local HR team.
What if I don’t have a bank account?
Unfortunately, most NHS organisations require a bank account to pay staff. NHS payrolls can be very large, often including tens of thousands of staff, and this means that flexibility for different individual circumstances tends to be limited.
However, you should speak to your local HR team or recruiting manager to see what alternative options might be available.
Want the inside track on your next NHS job application?
Check out our guide to writing great NHS job applications, created by NHS hiring managers with more than 40 years of combined experience.
The guide includes tips and tactics including:
- How to avoid the supporting statement mistake that sends more than 75% of applications straight to the bin;
- Four routes for finding “hidden” NHS jobs not listed on the NHS Jobs platform;
- Decoding the language of NHS job adverts and person specifications.
The latest version of the guide (September 2025) also includes new guidance on discussing key NHS strategies and policies (such as the 10 Year Health Plan) within your application.
Download the guide