Advice for Natwest CC application

sanctuary

After receiving advice on this forum, I am going to apply for a Natwest CC with its 15-month 0% interest on BT as I am a Natwest current account holder. My question is this:
As I (1) currently have an (approved) overdraft on my current account and (2) I don't want to compromise my credit rating if I were to apply online and be refused, is it an idea to make an appointment to see my bank manager? Do bank managers hold more influence when it comes to issuing CCs? Or is this a pointless tactic and I might as well just hold my breath and gamble on the online application?

Thanks in advance for any advice/suggestions!

CannyJock

It's worth speaking to the manager. That way if the application is declined in-branch they can speak to an underwriter on your behalf. It also shows them that you're taking the whole thing very serious and that you're committed to the building a long-term financial relationship with them as a preferred provider of future financial products. And if you can slip that line into the conversation with them, even better

Is this your first credit card by any chance? If it is then, you're doing the right thing speaking to your own bank. If you want to really score "taking it seriously" points, go to the meeting armed with a copy of your credit report to highlight your exemplary payment history.

There's no guarantee it'll do any good, but it certainly won't do any harm.

sanctuary

Thanks, CannyJock - I was hoping it would be worth a shot, and I'm glad to hear you think it might be too.

Ah, if only it was my first credit card! Unfortunately, I've had several throughout the years and I currently have four with some rather serious balances (in all about £18,000). Fortunately, we earn enough that - with some prudent budgeting and cutbacks - we should be able to pay them off in a few years. I've done my SOA and have already cut out what should amount to several thousand pounds worth of unnecessary direct debits over the course of a year.

It is indeed my hope that my bank manager will look kindly on my 20+ years with them and that I am looking to them to help me take control of my finances. Maybe it's worth noting that we also hold two NatWest business credit cards - the type which require us to always pay the full balance each month, which we do. And although my credit report doesn't paint me as lily white, it's not too bad so perhaps I will take it along with me; and I will certainly be armed with some of your quotes from your very helpful response.

Many, many thanks!

ElkyElky

Unfortunately a long term relationship with a bank doesn't mean anything these days.

Kavanne

The 0% for 15 months is ONLINE only. In the branch it is now 12 months, I believe, use to be 13. The manager in the Branch cannot give you any more than the Branch offer so you'll need to apply online if you want 15 months 0%.

sanctuary

Thanks, Kavanne. That changes things!