Is it worth proceeding?

witches_cauldron

I applied for a Natwest credit card back in August and was approved online for a limit of £7500. I then got a letter asking me to ring up which I did. They requested proof of address - ie a utility bill. I asked them whether a BT phone bill was OK. They said it was. So I sent that in. It has taken them FOURTEEN WORKING DAYS from receipt of the BT bill (I sent it recorded delivery so I know when it arrived) to actually apply it to my file. And I just phoned them to check on progress and they told me "the BT bill you sent cannot be used as proof of address as it is unclear to us what kind of bill it is." I asked what they meant and was told that he's not sure but that I need to send in a different bill. So I said I could send in my electric bill. I asked if it will take another fourteen working days to process that and he said yes. I asked him what will happen next after my electric bill is 'accepted' and he said, "then we will send you a credit agreement which you will have to sign and return and then the account will be open." I told him I already signed electronically during the application process online (I clearly remember doing this). He said, "oh well for your application we are going to need a credit agreement signed." I said I really didn't understand about the BT bill as is dated within the last 3 months, clearly has my name address etc on it. He said, "sorry we cannot open the account until we've received acceptable address proof. It is FSA regulations."

Is it worth bothering with this or not?

It's a good limit on the card but is all this BS normal with Natwest cards?

Moggles_2

I don't think it's particularly commonplace, but as you pointed out in your other recent cc thread, you always get referred.

In your current circumstances with no other credit card, I would say it's worth the trouble, especially as you've been handed a decent credit limit.

Is your electoral status shown correctly on your credit reports? Also, the way in which your current address is listed on your credit files is significant. Banks and credit card companies normally use the electoral register to verify an applicant's identity electronically.

You can inspect the electoral roll at your nearest public library. If I were you, I'd pay particular attention to the way your details are recorded on the register. An extra line may be inserted/omitted, for instance, where a block of flats or house name is involved. You'd be surprised how often this happens. Then notify the CRAs of any discrepancies, however minor.

When you apply for credit cards, bank accounts etc, ensure your address matches the details as they appear on the electoral register and you should be fine.

Also, you may well find it easier to get the credit facilities you want, once you've operated this card account for a bit.

Very best
M