Newbie in desperate need of advice

gfplux

When you change banks watch out that the "old" bank don't withdraw the overdraft from you.
I have no knowledge how banks review overdrafts or lack of activity in accounts however I can guess.
There is probably an automatic computer programme that will "flag" an account that has no activity during a period that may be 3, 6 or 12 months or less. One way of avoiding this "flag" is to put a small amount of money in the account each month and draw it out the following month. perhaps it would help to vary the amount each month.
I just base this on the logic that if someone owes me £2500 and I do not "hear" from them for 3 months I would worry, wouldn't you.

Good Luck

Worried-Angry-Shane

Thanks for your support Verbatim.

belfastgirl23: Funny you should say that cos we went through our house last night looking at all the things we could potentially sell, we came up with quite a lot stuff actually. So I started this morning by advertising a few items - we're going to have a look in the loft at the weekend. I've also got some private work coming in which should help in the short term with the overdrafts.

On that subject, anyone know of somebody that might require graphic or web design services? Let me know

dancingfairy

I would definitely check what benefits you are entitled to - i think there's a website called entitled to which tells you what benefits you could be getting.
Also I would call CCCS or phone National Debtline or maybe get an appointment at your local CAB - you don't have to go with what they suggest but it might give you an idea what the debt charities recommend - in fact CCCS have an online thingy where you can put all your figures and it will give you a rough idea of the best steps for you.
You sound very positive and I've no doubt you will get it sorted but maybe a friendly impartial ear will give you even more strength and encouragement - oh and congratulations for doing this while the little one is still young - your little one will grow up knowing the value of money and that the main things in life are being loved and looked after and not having desinger stuff.
Best of Luck
df

lucielle

Can you advertise your services as a graphic/web designer anywhere locally?
L

Worried-Angry-Shane

dancingfairy: so true - it's the fact that I am now a responsible (well sometimes) father that's mainly driving me on with this - my daughter really shouldn't have to pay for my mistakes and stupidity!

lucielle: Already on that one - started advertising and putting feelers out towards the end of last week and already have a job come in... the deposit landed this morning which will help slightly with the overdraft situation!

lucielle

Well that's a great starting point. The best advertising is word of mouth. Are there any local news mags that go round they can do cheap advertising?
L

twoflower169

I just wanted to say Hi, welcome and well done!

You sound so positive, keep it up! I wish my DH was so pro-active in helping, I am dealing with all the stuff to do with our DMP and even though he does do the odd phone call, its still me that does everything else! Anyway I do have less sleepless nights over our situation, he on the other hand doesn't maybe cos he doesn't know all the facts and figures and where we are in the process. SO you and your wife are lucky to both be supportive of each other.

I dont have anything else to add to all the above comments but just wanted to show my support and say Hi :hello:.

misspoppy

Hi

I was thinking about your private freelance work, you could try looking for local business networking group, they usually meet for breakfast often in places like a starbucks, our local one meets in starbucks and is free.

tesuhoha

Just to add. If you are thinking of opening a new bank account Alliance & Leicester pay cashback if you open a current account with them. I can't quite remember but I think its £100. The only requirement is that you pay in £1,000 per month and that would not be a problem for you if you had your salary paid in there.

kirstenc

good point tes, and you may be able to use an actual cashback website too that may increase your cashback further...have a look around and see whats available.