Most Nigerian banks require utility bills for account upgrades, but not everyone has one in their name. Maybe you live with family, rent a room where bills aren’t in your name, or your landlord handles utilities directly. Whatever the reason, you still need to upgrade your account to lift transaction limits.
Here’s how to upgrade your GTBank account when you don’t have a utility bill.
Why GTBank Requires Proof of Address
Banks need to verify where you live as part of Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. This prevents fraud and money laundering. Your address confirmation helps the bank ensure they’re dealing with a real person at a verifiable location.
Utility bills are the most common proof of address because they show your name and current address. But they’re not the only option.
Alternatives to Utility Bills GTBank Accepts
GTBank accepts several documents as proof of address when you don’t have a utility bill:
1. Bank Statements
A stamped bank statement from another bank showing your address works. The statement must be issued within the last three months and should have your current address clearly printed.
Visit the bank that issued the statement and request they stamp it. Most banks charge a small fee for this service.
2. Tenancy Agreement or Rent Receipt
If you rent your accommodation, your tenancy agreement serves as proof of address. The agreement must show your name, the property address, and be signed by both you and your landlord.
Rent receipts also work if they contain your full name and address. Make sure your landlord signs each receipt.
3. Employer Letter or ID Card
A letter from your employer on company letterhead confirming your residential address is acceptable. The letter should include your full name, home address, and be signed by an authorized person in your company.
Some employers issue ID cards with employees’ addresses. These can serve as proof of address if they’re current and clearly show your details.
4. Government-Issued Documents
Any government document with your current address works. This includes tax clearance certificates, pensioner ID cards, or letters from government agencies addressed to you.
5. Notarized Affidavit
As a last resort, you can swear an affidavit at a court or commissioner for oaths stating your residential address. The affidavit should include your full name, current address, and the reason you’re declaring it.
This costs between ₦2,000 to ₦5,000 depending on where you do it. Take two passport photographs and a valid ID when going to swear the affidavit.
How to Upgrade Your GTBank Account Without a Utility Bill
Method 1: Visit Any GTBank Branch
This is the most straightforward method:
Step 1: Gather your documents
- Valid ID (National ID, International Passport, Driver’s License, or Voter’s Card)
- Your 11-digit BVN
- Proof of address (any of the alternatives listed above)
- Two passport photographs
Step 2: Visit the nearest GTBank branch during banking hours
Step 3: Inform the customer service representative that you want to upgrade your account
Step 4: Fill out the account upgrade form provided
Step 5: Submit your documents and the completed form
Step 6: Wait for verification
Your account will typically be upgraded within 24 hours if all documents are in order.
Method 2: Online Upgrade via Internet Banking
GTBank allows online account upgrades through their internet banking platform:
Step 1: Log into GTBank Internet Banking at www.gtbank.com
If you haven’t registered, use your account number and create a secure password.
Step 2: Click on “Self-service” at the bottom of your account page
Step 3: Select “Account upgrade”
Step 4: Enter your 10-digit account number and BVN
Step 5: Choose your upgrade tier (Tier 2 or Tier 3)
Step 6: Upload your documents
- Scan or photograph your valid ID
- Scan your proof of address document
- Upload a passport photograph
Make sure all uploaded documents are clear and legible. File sizes should not exceed 2MB per document.
Step 7: Submit your application
A one-time password (OTP) will be sent to your registered phone number. Enter it to complete the process.
Your account upgrade should be completed within 24 hours.
Method 3: Through GTWorld Mobile App
The GTWorld app offers a convenient way to upgrade your account:
Step 1: Download the GTWorld app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store
Step 2: Log in with your internet banking credentials
Step 3: Tap on “More” then select “Account Services”
Step 4: Choose “Account Upgrade”
Step 5: Follow the prompts to upload your documents and complete the upgrade
The app may request access to your camera for selfie verification. Allow this to proceed with the facial recognition process.
GTBank Account Categories and Their Transaction Limits
GTBank operates three account tiers with different transaction limits:
Tier 1 Account:
- Maximum single deposit: ₦50,000
- Maximum daily balance: ₦300,000
- Requires only BVN to open
- Limited banking services
Tier 2 Account:
- Maximum single deposit: ₦200,000
- Maximum daily balance: ₦500,000
- Requires BVN, valid ID, and proof of address
- More banking services available
Tier 3 Account:
- No transaction limits
- Full access to all banking services
- Requires BVN, valid ID, proof of address, and passport photograph
- Highest transaction limits for transfers and withdrawals
Most people upgrade to Tier 3 to enjoy unlimited banking services.
