Second basic bank account for bills?

muddymouse

Hi, I've read through some of the threads on here but can't seem to find the answer to my specific question.

I currently have a basic bank account from Barclays, which I have held without problems for 5 years. I have a debit card, but no overdraft.

I want to be more organised with my money and so have been looking at setting up a second account specifically for paying bills by direct debit, so that I can pay a set amount into that account each month and then use my Barclays one for day to day spending only.

My question is, would it be better to apply for a second account with Barclays or look elsewhere? I don't have a great credit record, due to missed payments here and there, so I wouldn't get anything other than a basic account, and tbh I don't really want an account with an overdraft anyway, as they are just too tempting.

I called Barclays to ask about another account but the person I spoke to at the call centre said I would have to go into branch. I would really prefer to set it all up online if possible, so have looked at the Nat West account, but I wondered whether I am less likely to get this and if it would look bad on my credit report (which I am trying to get in order again).

Any advice gratefully received.

jalexa

muddymouse wrote: »

I would really prefer to set it all up online if possible, so have looked at the Nat West account, but I wondered whether I am less likely to get this and if it would look bad on my credit report (which I am trying to get in order again).

AFAIAA both Natwest and Halifax accept online applications for their basic bank accounts. The online application will perform a CRA "search" for identity purposes only, not a "credit search". The account, if and when opened, will appear in your credit file as a "current account".

So for the purposes of an identity search it is best if your current address and any previous address asked for in the application (normally 3 years) and including Electoral Roll registration, is all in order.

Sorry I don't follow your concern about Natwest.

muddymouse

Thanks for your reply jalexa.

My concerns over Natwest are:

1. Will they be more likely to refuse me an account because I don't have a history with them?

2. Would it be detrimental to my credit history to have two accounts with two different banks?

jalexa

muddymouse wrote: »

My concerns over Natwest are:

1. Will they be more likely to refuse me an account because I don't have a history with them?

2. Would it be detrimental to my credit history to have two accounts with two different banks?

Regarding 2, not at all.

Regarding 1, "not having a history with them" is not grounds for not being accepted for a basic bank account, (subject to being able to satisfy ID either electronically or by documentary means. However, since the "ID search" is not detrimental to your credit rating, you have nothing to lose by trying.

muddymouse

jalexa wrote: »

Regarding 2, not at all.

Regarding 1, "not having a history with them" is not grounds for not being accepted for a basic bank account, (subject to being able to satisfy ID either electronically or by documentary means. However, since the "ID search" is not detrimental to your credit record, you have nothing to lose by trying.

Thankyou so much for your help. I have just applied for an account with Nat West and been accepted.

sscott5581

Why not speak with Barclays about opening another Cash Account with them.

pmduk

My experience with Barclays is that they will do all in their power to not open a basic bank account for you, including opening a different bank account without your authority. I believe Natwest is a good choice for a second account, remember you can only use their own cash machines to make withdrawals, which I reckon would make them a bad choice as a primary bank account.

From experience, I would suggest that you set up a routine to check the exact amounts to be debited each month to avoid nasty and expensive mistakes.