Best account to keep open when we move abroad

mondays

Hi,

My husband and I are moving overseas and are wondering if anyone knows of a good current account we can apply for to keep open for our return visits and for receiving the odd bits of money from family etc. I've looked through the bank accounts page but as our situation isn't the norm I'm not sure which would be best.

Naturally we won't be paying a set amount into it each month so don't qualify for many of them. We also won't need an overdraft and don't want any monthly fees as then it would be pointless as it may be left unused for many months at a time.

Anyone got any advice/ideas?

R34GTT

First Direct - you can avoid the monthly funding requirement by opening an E-Saver account with them too (leave £1 in it).

If you have the time before you leave then you could get the £100 joining incentive if you deposit £1500 (28 day wait afterward to get the £100). The £1500 can be withdrawn before hand though.

As they answer the phone within a few rings it would be ideal if you have to contact them from abroad.

NFH

Why do you feel the need to close existing accounts? I've kept bank accounts from every country I've lived in, and they can suddenly be very useful in future.

mondays

Hi,

I have no intention of closing them all completely just the ones that charge if you don't put money in them each month.

Thanks for the heads up with first direct. We already have an account with them so i'll check their terms again.

Alter_ego

Many banks will close accounts if you tell them you are no longer UK resident.
It all depends on your status while abroad.