Basiskontainingseinheit

Basiskontainingseinheit, often abbreviated as BKE, is a term used in the German banking system to denote a basic current account. It is a legal right granted to all consumers in Germany, ensuring access to essential banking services regardless of their creditworthiness or financial situation. The BKE provides the fundamental functionalities of a standard current account, including making and receiving payments, direct debits, and card access for cash withdrawals and point-of-sale purchases.

The concept of the Basiskontainingseinheit was established by the European Union's Payment Accounts Directive and transposed into German law. Its primary purpose is to promote financial inclusion and prevent individuals from being excluded from the economy due to a lack of access to a bank account. Banks are legally obligated to offer a BKE to any consumer who requests one, provided they are legally resident in the EU.

Opening a BKE typically requires identification verification, similar to any other bank account. However, unlike some other account types, banks cannot refuse to open a BKE based on an applicant's credit history or existing debt. There are usually no credit facilities associated with a BKE. Fees for a BKE must be reasonable and transparent, although specific charges can vary between institutions. The BKE is a crucial tool for individuals to manage their finances, receive salaries, and pay bills, thereby enabling their participation in daily economic life.