Halifax Clarity - do I need to inform them of usage abroad?

pjread

I usually carry cash, but this time am planning to use my new Clarity card while I'm away next week. Am I safe to assume I can just use it, or should I inform them to expect the usage somehow?

Can't find anything definitive online and their 'help' implies I shouldn't worry, but I don't want to be caught short

zagfles

Unless they've changed their advice very recently, then you should tell them. There was even a message on my statement in June or July warning that you should tell them if you're going abroad. I phoned them and they even wanted to know the countries I was visiting and the dates!

kaych

You should give them a call and tell them the period you will be away and where... if you are worried that they may block you.
Having said that, I have used the credit card abroad for a number of times in Europe and Asia and have never informed them about the trips but never had a problem.

chattychappy

Most CCs operate this system. But my experience (though not of Clarity) is if you don't tell them it doesn't mean you can't use the card, and if you do tell them you can't be sure that it won't get blocked anyway.

Take backups and don't rely on any particular card working at any particular time. Having a cheap way to call back to the UK is handy too.

chattychappy

kaych wrote: »

I have used the credit card abroad for a number of times in Europe and Asia and have never informed them about the trips but never had a problem.

Ditto. I don't bother. I mainly use Zero, Post Office and Nationwide.

pjread

Thanks - worst case I've got another few cards... :-/ Will give them a buzz if they're open today!

jen245

When I called up to activate my Clarity card, the lady i spoke to told me to ring them if i was going to be using the card abroad. I went to the US last year with my Santander Zero (got rid of that now), and forgot to tell them, and they blocked my card

zagfles

I've used Nationwide cards abroad loads of times for the last 12 years or so and never told them, and never had a problem. I only told Halifax because they said to on my statement...

newleaf

I have a Clarity card. I notified them the first time I went abroad with it (USA), but I forgot to do so when I went away again in September (EU). I didn't have any problems either time.
For some reason I've never had my card blocked when abroad, but my husband has - even when he has notified them he will be travelling!
By the way, if you do phone them to let them know, they will try to sell you some travel insurance! :rotfl: