Can't open basic bank account?

Machine1uk

Hi I don't know anyone has any advice for me. I have been trying to open a basic bank account for some time I do have some historic old debts but at this moment in tme I am in no position to pay them due to limited funds. I read recently that 10 major banks were offering basic accounts for people with poor credit. I applied to co-op and HSBC and have been declined I just want an account where my wages can be paid in and I can do direct debits and have a debit card I do not wish for an overdraft. Maybe in the near future when I have more income I will address these previous debts but right now my priority debts are more important as I would like remain in my property. If someone out there has any advice I would be very grateful
I feel that the banks are not sticking to the agreement with the government

I look forward to hopefully some positive replies

DomRavioli

That isn't a basic bank account. Go into a branch and apply for a basic bank account, not what you have described above.

You're unlikely to get a debit card if you've been declined by more than one bank.

colsten

Before you try again, have you checked whether you got any CIFAS marker on your credit history? That could mean that no bank will give you any account, not even a basic one.

If there is no CIFAS marker and if you don't owe anything to Nationwide, you could try their FlexBasic

pmduk

DomRavioli wrote: »

That isn't a basic bank account. Go into a branch and apply for a basic bank account, not what you have described above.

You're unlikely to get a debit card if you've been declined by more than one bank.

In fact what the OP describes is precisely what is offered by a basic bank account. IIRC as of this month they all provide debit cards (though Santander's isn't directly linked to your account balance).


Any problems are far more likely to be with the OP's history with the bank group he's applying to and/or a CIFAS or National Hunter listing.

eDicky

Meanwhile you could get a suitable prepaid debit card, one that will accept wages or benefits from a third party to be paid in.

Best value at the moment is probably Pockit: http://www.pockit.com/ (But DDs not available)

DomRavioli

pmduk wrote: »

In fact what the OP describes is precisely what is offered by a basic bank account. IIRC as of this month they all provide debit cards (though Santander's isn't directly linked to your account balance).


Any problems are far more likely to be with the OP's history with the bank group he's applying to and/or a CIFAS or National Hunter listing.

You may want to let banks know then, as some still offer basic accounts for adults without debit cards (as of Saturday anyway - I'm not in the position where I need a basic account, but have assisted someone Saturday 9th January 2016).

pmduk

You might find it useful to read this editorial page from MSE http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/banking/basic-bank-accounts. It's always a good idea to ask for bank products by name to overcome poor training and perhaps an innate nature to upsell.