Savings Accounts/Opening a joint banking account

I'm looking into opening a joint account with DB, and I'm getting a bit confused as to all of the options/kinds of accounts available, but basically the account will serve two purposes:

1- Proof of us living in a relationship akin to marriage for an eventual Unmarried Partners Visa (we already have all bills/lease/council letters in both our names, but might be moving to a shared house in London in the next few months, where I'm not sure if we'll have all the same "proof")

2- Proof of maintenance for a Tier 1-Post Study Work Visa. (I tend to forget how much money is in my current account, and if I remember correctly, the T1 PSW requires that you must hold the money for a full 3 months, and it must not drop even a penny below the amount required--So I'd rather not risk it..)

So basically, I'm wanting to set up an account that I'll initially make a large deposit into, but leave it alone after that. I'm thinking a savings account would be best, as I'd like to earn as much interest as I can on it.

Can anyone recommend anything in particular??  There are SO many types of ISAs, and I can't quite see all the differences.  Also, I'm not sure if I'd be happy to have a 1 year period where I have absolutely no access to the money.

Also, as a USC, will I encounter any problems trying to set up a joint account with my DB (UKC)? I plan to use my US Passport for identity, and bank statements, council letters, bills, etc. as proof of address.  Will this be enough to open an account?

I'm also wondering-- Would UKBA will find it strange if I use this account as proof of funds for my T1 PSW visa, since it will have mine and his names on it?  I would also send in statements from my UK current account, and possibly my US accounts if I can figure out a way to obtain certified copies--But to make the math(s) easy for them, I figured if I can show one account with a constant steady number, it would probably be the easiest way of proving I meet the requirements.

Thanks all in advance

Hi

There are indeed many types of accounts available and perhaps it might be an idea to speak to an independent financial advisor to see if there's any product that suits you better over others. no idea how much they'll charge etc though.

Else, you'll need to look at the various online sites and do some comparisons. The more intricate areas you mention you'll most likely need to speak to someone with more experience be it a professional person or indeed more pointers from members here who've gone through it. I would have thought to open or get yours and your better half's name on an account the ID you have currently would suffice. Not sure if the UKBA (just quoting you there) will have any problems with your accounts setup this way, I'd say maybe give them a call to see what they say ?

hope this helps a bit

Cheers, DtM!