Problems closing a French bank account

Scampted

So, if they ignore emails, do you think this is something that will need to be done face to face in the bank?

melanzana

When he was over there, how come nothing was sorted out. I don't understand that.

Anyway, another trip might be required. Go into the bank in France, ask to do an international bank transfer electronically (IBANS and BICs required for the account he wishes it transferred to), clear out the account and that should be that. Bring ID.

There is probably more to the story. Perhaps there are bills coming out of it by DD or property and other taxes to paid, that kind of thing. If there are, a suitable amount will have to be left in the account to meet them. If not, and the money is just sitting there, then transfer it electronically.

There is no requirement to have a bank account for the sale of a property in France. The sale proceeds are transferred electronically into the bank account of your choice anywhere in the EU.

melanzana

Was just browsing there, and for the OP, I came across this site.

You might consider posting your query there, you might get information from "those on the ground"

https://www.frenchentree.com/france-forum/discussion/living-in-france-2/french-finance-insurance/

missbiggles1

In French but info on closing an account, complete with letter.

https://resiliation.ooreka.fr/comprendre/resiliation-compte-bancaire-caisse-epargne

melanzana

missbiggles1 wrote: »

In French but info on closing an account, complete with letter.

https://resiliation.ooreka.fr/comprendre/resiliation-compte-bancaire-caisse-epargne

Top of the class!

Scampted

Thank you all for your input. I will work on what you have provided.

xylophone

We can't seem to get any response, other than the person who deals with the account is away on holiday and will action upon their return,

I notice that in the link above, the account holder is advised that he may send a registered (receipt signed for) letter requesting closure or may complete an account closure request form (at the counter, presumably) with an account adviser.


I wonder did your father do this when he visited the branch and the delay is down to some action (or lack of action) taken by the clerk who is "en vacances"?

Has he handed back his cheque book and debit card?

The letter specifically refers to the fact that the account holder must ensure that there are sufficient funds in the account to meet any outstanding payments and that any standing orders/ direct debits etc are cancelled - is it possible that your father has fallen foul of these requirements?

Thrugelmir

Scampted wrote: »

So, if they ignore emails, do you think this is something that will need to be done face to face in the bank?

Emails can be sent by anyone.

agrinnall

Scampted wrote: »

There is a large amount from the sale of a property and my father is now back in the UK, so there would be the exchange rate charges to lose out on.

This makes no sense, what does he intend to do with the money if he doesn't want to incur any exchange charges? Take it out in Euros and keep it under the mattress?

Anthorn

Like a few others I point to the OP not making any sense with regard to the exchange of Euros for Pounds.

With regard to French banks, in my own personal experience they tend to ignore requests sent by letter especially letters posted from outside of France. As with opening an account in the first place go into a bank branch with your documentation and that means a visit to France and possibly even a visit to the town/city where the bank branch is located.