Help - can my bank do this?

dav_blackpool

Hi guys,

Sorry if this has been covered, but couldn't find it through search...

I have a big problem and don't know what to do, I have a loan with Welcome Finance (mistake to begin with), and following advice from Consumer credit counselling service, cancelled my direct debit and sent them a letter as I couldn't afford to pay this loan.

2 months have gone by, and heard nothing from Welcome. Until 1st December, they left 4 messages on my house phone in one day, whilst I was at work.

They then proceeded to take £200 off my debit card without my authorisation, I had used the card once to make a payment to them - but they have used it again to take more payment without seeking permission.

I phoned my bank (RBS) and they said as I'd used the card with them in the past theres nothing they can do... even though it wasn't a recurring payment... they referred me to Welcome to ask for a refund.

Needless to say Welcome wont give me the refund, they accept they shouldnt have taken the money but say that I owe them the money and they aren't prepared to refund.

I'm totally stuck, its left me without money and really don't know where to turn, does anyone have any advice or knowledge on where I stand legally?

Thank you all for your time

David

mazza1985

I'm sure they are not allowed to do this.

If you did not authorise the transaction then it is theft, as simple as that. The payment you had set up with them was for a direct debit, NOT a card transaction. Welcome have already admitted liability in stating they should not have taken the transaction.

I'm not sure how to get the money back, but cancel your card so they cant do it again, this is what I had to do for pay day uk!

rb10

I would write a letter to Welcome Finance explaining that the transaction took place without your authorisation and that you would like it refunded immediately. If they refuse or don't reply, submit a fraud claim with your bank.