Advice please

sparkey1

Milfordmadness, sorry to contradict re Alliance and Leicester, but they will charge the fixed amount for a 5 minute overdraft. It might have changed since Santander took over, my issue occured about a year ago. Going off subject, RBS, HSBC and First Direct dont charge for five minutes. They seem to work on the end of day principle. Maybe its because they are proper clearing banks.

Fred_Bear_2

I received this letter this morning from HSBC:

Having checked my records I have found that the new direct debit mandate you signed and returned was received on 11th February. There was no mention on the mandate of payment not being taken until March and the operator set up the direct debit to claim on the earliest possible date. A letter of confirmation was sent advising you that the payment would be claimed on 16th February. With regard to your bank charges, if you send us in your bank statement we will consider refunding the charges incurred.

Well almost full marks to HSBC. An instant response by letter - very impressed. I still haven't received the letter of confirmation but the 'problem' was caused by HSBC being so efficient. Other banks have always told me they were unable alter this months DD and the change would take place the next month. I assumed HSBC were the same. (Note to self: Never assume anything.) Also excellent for appearing to offer to refund my bank charges.

sparkey1

Result then. might still be worth asking Alliance and Leicester to refund their charges if they charge you.

There is a certain irony that one bank is offering to refund anothers charges, but inb the end the Alliance and Leicester charge would be an illegal penalty charge in my view therefore it shouldn't be neccessary.

Fred_Bear_2

Footnote: Alliance & Leicester did not charge me. Thanks for all the responses.