When can I get a current account?

teabag29

I have bad credit history due to my ex partner (long story- domestic abuse). I am now in a happy stable marriage and trying to rebuild my credit. I have 8 defaults that are all due to drop off by next August (some earlier) which is whats causing my rubbish credit score.

For the past 18 mths ive been trying to rebuild my credit up and have lots of green ticks (capital one and vanquis card and 2 catalogues- all payments on time and c.cards in full). I dont have any current debt only my defaults that are due to drop off soon.

I have been with my bank (halifax basic account) for just over 7 years now and currently have around £2500 per month going into the account. I have still not been offered a current account and wondered when this is likely or do I have to apply? I dont want to be rejected so was hoping they'd offer me a current account but it doesnt seem to be happening, any advice?

100saving

you have to apply for one in order to get one!!

if you do get a new current account DON'T close your account that you have been using for over 7 years as this account is helping keep you credit score. this will be a green tick as it shows you are a little more stable.

try looking at other banks as well not just halifax. like the santander 123 current account that pays cash back on bills, petrol, mortgage etc. apply using topcashback and they give you £57.75 cash back for going with them. or if you are looking at saving the first direct account gives you 6% on their regular saving account but only if you have the current account and their is not fee if you pay your wages in and a £100 joining bonus.

teabag29

I did apply last year and was turned down. Before I got into debt my old bank sent me a letter offering to upgrade my account thats how I have previously upgraded, do they not do this anymore?

dr_adidas01

teabag29 wrote: »

I did apply last year and was turned down. Before I got into debt my old bank sent me a letter offering to upgrade my account thats how I have previously upgraded, do they not do this anymore?

You can ring customer services and see if you can upgrade your basic account to a full current account.

If they can do this your account number and sort code will stay the same, they will just send you a new debit card.

They may run a credit check when you upgrade your account or your internal score maybe sufficient to upgrade you without a credit check.

The only way to find out is to try.

Venusflytrap

Just a by-the-way question:

Is it really that disadvantageous to close a long-standing current account on acquisition of another?

I have had a Barclays current account for over 6 years, switched my main account to Nationwide late 2011 and have just opened a N&P current account. I do not want to leave open unused accounts and thought it best to close the Barclays in the next month.

In my case is this disadvantageous? I have no issues getting credit (just got a NatWest CC approval this week) and have a solid nine-year history. Also the Barclays account (all greens over 6 years) will remain on file for 6 years so still contributes to my credit profile I imagine?

mrtaximan

Hi,Ifound Barclays a great help when my credit file was clear six years after BR.I now hold 3 accounts ie personnel/business and savings.:)