Is it Possible to Get a Debit Card Account Whils on Benefits

jooster

I was wondering if anyone could help me.
I have just split up with my husband, I have not had a bank account for years.

I will be on benefits as I have 2 children under 3.

I went into Barclays to open an account and was told as I would be receiving benefits only a cash card account will be available for me. I have gone for this for now as I desperatly needed an account.

I do everything online, including shopping as I don't drive and is impossible to do a shop with the boys.

However now I will be unable to do this as I will only have a cash card.

I do not have any debts, and only want a deit card for an easier life for yself and I don't wish for an overdraft etc.

Does anyone know if there are any banks that would be likely to give me a deit card account.

Many Thanks.

Cypher

I've just opened a Lloyds TSB current account for my son, he's 16 years old in full time education. This account gave him a Visa Debit card.

I've been told on this forum that the card is a "2 in 1 control card" which allows him to buy things using the card but that it requires a balance check to be performed to check the funds are available, it can also be used as a cash card. It can't be used for credit or for cheque guarentees.

That might be one option for you.

jonesMUFCforever

Did you have a joint account with your ex?
If so your existing bank may be your best bet unless the account was in trouble.

jooster

No the account wasn't in joint names, we just used his account for everything as I wasn't earning, and we didn't get round to putting it in joint names. Barclays is where his account is.

mummymania

I have a basic account with the Halifax - I have a cheque book so I can write cheques for school, nursery, bills etc, but no cheque card. The card is an electron visa and i use it like a debit card in shops and online. I shop with tescos and sainsburys online and they accept it no probs. I also have online banking and no overdraft. I've had no probs with it and if I have any money spare in my account i transfer it over to my ISA or websaver account both with halifax.

hope this helps..

BASFORDLAD

the halifax account mummy is talking about is the cardcash account, ive had this account for years which i dont use anymore, but it isnt available to new customers now.