What basic bank account can I get?

KashaUK2013

I've just had a letter to say my Co-operative bank account is going to be closed - for failed standing orders (note this is due to co-operative bank on four occasions sent standing orders that I had cancelled). Prior to Co-op I had an account with HSBC which was cancelled for the same reason (DWP not paying on time were to thank for this one).

I've also had accounts with Barclays and Lloyds TSB - I think I still owe them money as had overdraft with both of them when I lost my job five years ago.

So, as you can see I've got far from the best track record with banks thanks to unemployment...I'm wondering who I could try with next...

I'm assuming I can't get a basic bank account with Barclays or Lloyds TSB while I owe them money, any other banks - it really needs to have internet banking.

pmduk

There's a list of basic bank accounts here. You're probably best avoiding halifax or Bank of Scotland as they're part of Lloyds TSB. But be careful, you seem to be running out of options. Perhaps avoid standing orders and direct debits? Rely on internet banking instead when you know the funds are present.

System

NatWest, Metrobank or Nationwide would seem to be your remaining options with debit cards. I suggest you look at 'piggybanking' with standing orders/ direct debits causing your problems in the past.

jonesMUFCforever

I would suggest a building society passbook with no debit card standing orders or D/D would be best option.
To be honest to co%k things up once is bad enough but 4 times! OP you really need to change your financial lifestyle.

innovate

Given that the OP is rapidly running out of remaining options, perhaps paying somebody like Thinkmoney would be an option.

They cost a lot each month but they offer some financial management which the OP is sorely lacking.

UsetheFORCE

or try http://www.ybs.co.uk/savings/easy_access/cash_transactor.html

Cash card, internet banking, SO's and DD's... no debit card mind.

BASFORDLAD

I would second ybs account, also recommend the Coventry building society money manager account, internet banking but no debit card on new accounts, but good service

pmduk

If someone is sailing close to the wind financially, thinkbanking can only add to the money pressures with their expensive service.

innovate

I know - - but the reason he's sailing close to the wind is that he doesn't manage his finances. So he may have to pay for that. He can't go on changing banks like underwear.

Chrisblue1962

UsetheFORCE wrote: »

or try http://www.ybs.co.uk/savings/easy_access/cash_transactor.html
Cash card, internet banking, SO's and DD's... no debit card mind.

I can recommend the YBS Cash Transactor account too but you will need £100.00 to open the account but minimum balance from then on is eithernil or £1.00. I have all my Direct Debits set up on this account - makes money management much easier.

pqrdef

Nobody's mentioned Santander.

If you're not bothered about a local branch, there's also

Clydesdale/Yorkshire Readycash

Norwich & Peterborough Gold Light