Bank account where there's special needs

Binbun

Hi All
Im trying to find a suitable bank account for someone I am supporting who has special needs. They have a mental health condition and other difficulties which means they struggle with financial control. I have helped them with controlling this since last Christmas but now they would like to become independent, and I need to find them a bank account which will offer them some protection from debt.

They did have a basic Halifax account but when they reached 21 last year the branch insisted that they change to a standard current account as the basic account was for juniors. However, they didnt explain to him that he now did not have the protection of being prevented from withdrawing money they didnt have in the account, (where as the junior account refused withdrawal at the cash machine or declined at switch transaction if they had insufficient funds). Unfortunatley, this lead to him receiving 800 in charges for at Christmas due to the their confusion and misunderstanding. Needless to say Halifax were very unhelpful after the event.:mad:

So I am trying to find a basic bank account which allows them to withdraw their funds only from the cash machine, does not offer an overdraft authorised or unathorised, does not charge for the account and with a bit of luck may offer a bit of interest on the credit balance. Internet access to the account would also be a must.

Has anyone out there come across this kind of account or know of others who are in a similar situation to me as a carer trying to find the best account for the cared for so they can live with independence?

Best wishes to you all... I look forward to your comments.
Bb

carolt2

Hi am not sure if this will be of help but have at look at NS&I, they do an EASA, (easy access savings account).
You can get benefits paid into this via Dwp, you get a cash card that can be used via LINK system. You can access this account also through post office ie withdrawls/deposits. You must keep £100 in account and it wont let you withdraw below this limit.
Not sure about internet access!?
Will have a look and see if i can find a link for you.

http://www.nsandi.com/products/easa/index.jsp

Looks as though they offer a telephone service, which might not be ideal.
http://www.nsandi.com/products/easa/telephoneservice.jsp

Binbun

carolt2 wrote: »

Looks as though they offer a telephone service, which might not be ideal.
http://www.nsandi.com/products/easa/telephoneservice.jsp

Ive taken a look too, and it looks like they only offer the phone service... Shame,
I dont think telephone service will be enough, this can be difficult for them too.

stclair

Natwest cash account that cannot incur fees and does not offer standing orders or Direct Debits? Ask in your local branch.

Extant

Any bank should be able to offer a basic bank account with no credit facilities and only a cash card.

Bear in mind, however, that cash cards are still susceptible to skimming fraud - so you might want to encourage your ward to use ATMs in well trafficked places only, or inside bank branches where possible, etc.