Charged for being overdrawn by 38p

lisa1404

Hello,
I'm new and wondered if anyone can help me. I exceeded my overdraft limit by 38p, when I realised this I immediately went to the bank and paid £20 in which the nice lady led me to believe would mean I'd incur no charges as I'd only been overdrawn for 4hours. Today I recieved a letter telling me £30 would be taken out of my account next week, the same nice lady then informed my I must have misunderstood her. Is there anything I can do?? Help Me Please

GlennTheBaker

I would write to them in a very concise, calm and professional manner. Explain that going over your limit by 38p was an oversight on your part, and ask if they could refund or waive any excess overdraft charges as a gesture of goodwill.

I would be most surprised if they didn't.

thecotswolds

Many banks allow you a small buffer (e.g Lloyds TSB only charge if more than £10 OD). I would definitely complain if they are going to charge and dont give up until it is cancelled.

Good luck.

westy_3

I'm curious which bank was it? That's a rediculous fine for such a small amount of unauthorised credit.

lisa1404

Thank you guys. I've compiled a letter though wondered whether it is best to send it to my branch or go for a head honcho, if so how does one track down a head honcho, is it easier to find an e-mail address??
The bank in question is Halifax!!

lowedb

Well I thought they only added up the figures at the end of the day.

Many years ago OH became overdrawn by 17p and had charges etc, and also a letter about 'managing your finances' and offering a credit card. We called them and it was dropped without a fight!

MORPH3US

There is a thread somewhere about people suing banks for this sort of thing. Apparently they are only allowed to charge an amount which is supposed to be for their admin costs in writing to you etc + the interest on the amount. Since you were only over by 38p and they only sent you one letter, £30 is massively diss-proportionate so I would find the thread and write them a letter.

I have no doubt you'll get the money back!!!

M

mjanet

lisa1404 look at the thread illegal bank charges .I don't know how to put a direct link here but maybe someother kind person would for you

cuggie

Wasn't the woolwich was it ???

we've had the same thing for 17p !

over the past 15 yrs they very rarely re-credit back the £30 "which will be a once only " credit,

melancholly

If someone in the bank told you it would be fine, then you have to make that very clear as well - it's more than just them making a good-will gesture, it's about one of their staff giving misleading information (and perhaps you misunderstood, but at best she was unclear, and it will make your case sound a lot stronger!)

maforduk

I bank with Halifax and they have a lee-way of £5.
It's there mistake somewhere, go to the bank and speak to a Custumer Advisor.
They will stop the charge.