Joint bank accounts - how to remove one name from an account?

Wirenth

My parents separated in 1998. Unfortunately, they still have several joint accounts that I am unable to get Mum's name off. They are in credit and there are no debt problems and adverse credit history associated with them.

The problem is that my Dad is being a stubborn mule and unwilling to sign any papers that agree to my Mum being removed from those accounts, even though this would effectively give him the money in those accounts. Its making her life miserable.

Surely Mum cannot be the only person with an uncooperative partner/husband that is using this to punish her?

Is there any way that her finances can be separated from his? Any advice from someone who has been through this will be very welcome.

Wirenth

BenL

I used to work for a bank and the easiest way to get someone removed who is unco-operative is to close the account.

This is only is it is "either signature to operate"

I would advise your mum to clear out the account by cheque or transfer (again either signature to operate"

When the account is down to Zero write and ask for the closure.

It is important to clear the account so you don't get a cheque made payable to Mr & Mrs only.

Or actually, if you do have a balance ask the bank to forward the cheque from the closure to a new account - they should hopefully put the sort code and account number of the other account in the payee field and post it to the other account for you.

If she then wants to split the money with him its up to her.

Don't tell him what she is doing or he could get a stop put on the account or a dispute which would halt the closure.

Ben

Wirenth

Wow, I never thought that banks would close a joint account with only one signature!

Many thanks BenL.

jonesMUFCforever

Wirenth wrote:

Wow, I never thought that banks would close a joint account with only one signature!

Many thanks BenL.

Some won't!
Get her to clear the balance bringing account to zero and tell bank that there is a dispute on account and that she wants it blocked.
That way no one has access until both parties agree.

virgin_moneysaver

agree with ejones999 - if it's a joint account you need both signatures to close even if it's operating as either to sign- as other post suggested tell bank there's a dispute on account & they'll put a hold on the account until an agreement is reached, as it is, it's not causing your Dad problems so it doesn't bother him but that way he'll have to agree to your mums name being removed in order for him to have his account back to normal