HSBC Current Account

claire***_2

Anyone had any issues opening a HSBC account recently? I did an online application 2 weeks ago. It said at the end that they would get back to me in 5 working todays. Heard nothing today so called them to be told that they couldnt find the application but they are behind and to wait another 2 weeks. Sounds crazy to me!

SYHR

I had the same issue some time ago. It seems they're still in the dark ages, nothing gets done quickly by HSBC.

bubieyehyeh

I applied for an account over three weeks ago, I've only received two letters. I've yet to receive a welcome pack, pin or card. Today they tell me the account hasn't yet been opened but should be by the end of the week they think.

sgun

It took them three months to open mine, seems they don't really want people to have them (I have alot of coins to pay in and their machines are handy)

LabRatty

I tried to open one online about 3 weeks ago; it said they needed more info and would be in touch. So far, not a peep either verbally or in writing. Not holding my breath....

henm2

I would go into one of the branches to check what is happening. Take your ID and proof of address with you.

claire***_2

Thanks everyone. Was only going with them for the switching offer so think i will have a rethink on that.

Katiehound

I took advantage of their switching offer about 18 months ago.

From all the comments I read on the appropriate thread it was obvious that I had had a much quicker experience! because I went into the branch with all the ID paperwork for a one hour interview.
Follow up was another interview the following week- everything done and dusted- got the current a/c open, the switch started, CC, monthly saver + ISA opened.
Well pleased and that netted me something like £265.Worth it- but of course only if you are near a branch and have the time to spare!

JIL

I have now been waiting for three weeks, I had it all planned, let the two direct debits go out early February, just after payday and switch to HSBC, sort out savings account and carry on in March. Oh well.

joujou

HSBC handles all of HSBC, First Direct and M&S. All three are having fantastic (probably the best) switching deals out there, so they are getting hammered with applications.

bigadaj

joujou wrote: »

HSBC handles all of HSBC, First Direct and M&S. All three are having fantastic (probably the best) switching deals out there, so they are getting hammered with applications.

Probably not the major reason, the other operations are arms length even if administered by HSBC, so different staff etc

HSBC are just slow, partly because it is their wont, partly because of their issues around procedures and potential money laundering, partly due to having high thresholds and being 'picky' about their customers and for several other reason no doubt.

Opening an account with them took me around six weeks, don't think anywhere else has taken longer than a couple of weeks. Marked contrast with M&S who had it open in less than two weeks.