Direct Debit charges

bhompy

I want some help with this problem. I have 3 direct debits set up on my Natwest current account, 2 for £12 and one for the minimum payment to credit card. Last month, I was running a little low on cash in the current account. So basically, they took the £12 payment fine. after that there was only £10 odd left and hence they couldnt process that direct debit , the other £12,leading to a £38 fine. Because of this my account was obviously negative. the next day, there was another £38 charge as they couldnt pay £1.67 into my credit card payment..so I am stuck with a £76 charge for items of about £14 max in total. Is there anything I can do? Is it likely they'll refund the charges ? any advice would be helpful, before I storm the branch..Thank you

I particualrly dont understand why they charge the fine when they are not going to settle the account anyway, I still have to pay for the direct debit over and above that charge..I do understand that they charge to cover risk and all, but cant they pay it off?? ..and plus if I dont have money to pay a direct debit, your £38 charge is obviously OTT which leads to negative balance, and further multiple £38 charges...

nickmack

bhompy wrote: »

Is it likely they'll refund the charges ? any advice would be helpful, before I storm the branch..

Read Martin's step by step article on reclaiming. The link is in my signature.

I particualrly dont understand why they charge the fine when they are not going to settle the account anyway, I still have to pay for the direct debit over and above that charge..I do understand that they charge to cover risk and all, but cant they pay it off?? ..and plus if I dont have money to pay a direct debit, your £38 charge is obviously OTT which leads to negative balance, and further multiple £38 charges...

Yes, it's a classic scenario. Personally, I see no justification for making a charge to 'consider' whether to pay a DD that would exceed an agreed limit. If the DD is paid, then fair enough, a small proportionate fee may be justified.

bhompy

sorry to bump, but thank you very much nickmack..highly appreciated!