Virgin.net doesn't want my cash

Julie_T

I am a committed debt-free wannabe having cut up the cards two years ago. It was a totally liberating experience and I have been operating on a cash-only basis every since. My debts are largely down to a relationship breakdown and the failings of the tax credit and child support systems. That said, there were some occasions when I really should have known better.

I am managing my debt well and I'm looking forward to being debt-free within a realistic timescale but....... what I can't cope with is the fact that whilst I have a basic bank account which allows me to make standing order and direct debit payments this limits me in ways that are really frustrating.

I changed bank accounts recently and tried to change the account details for virgin.net. They required a debit card against which to charge any amount that accrues before the direct debit can be set up. I don't have a debit card and when I first set up the account with virgin.net I asked a friend to help me out and they supplied their debit card details for the first payment. I found out however that the debit card details were kept on record to be used in the case of any default.

When I contacted virgin.net today they suggested that I ask a friend to use their card and I said that I didn't want to leave a friend liable to any future payments. They explained that their system would not allow a direct debit to be set up without first putting in the details of a debit or credit card. My gripe is that surely it is not impossible in the event that a direct debit is not set up in time for the first payment to be a double one - it routinely happens in the case of insurance etc.

I have now cancelled the account with Virgin - they have said that it is a 30 day cancellation and presumably charges will accrue in the meantime as, because I have been unable to set up a new direct debit for a couple of months, I am in arrears. I have said to them that this is now their problem as I am willing and able to pay but cannot do so by debit or credit card.

Sorry, just sounding off - most of the time enjoy being cash-only. Get a real sense of power and control over my finances. It's a good lesson for my children as well - if we can't afford something we don't get it until we can.

Feel better for the rant - thanks

itsarichmansworld

Its sucks!

Well done on getting Debt Free

Why dont you get a Visa electron/ Maestro card you can have a debit card without running up debt?

Julie_T

Sounds obvious when you put it like that! Thanks, will look into getting one at the weekend.