Best alternative to Metro Bank?

ValiantSon

d123 wrote: »

Probably best not to make statements of fact when you’ve not used the system then .

The statement I made was factually correct and taken directly from Starling's own FAQs. I fail to see why I shouldn't have posted that!

It’s this simple:[/QUOTE]

That's great. What a shame they don't explain that on their FAQs! Instead they say:

Can I deposit cash?

Get in touch with our Customer Service team directly from the app if you’d like to deposit cash in to your account.

My only mistake was saying you had to phone them, rather than contacting them via the app.

Zanderman

An app-based alternative to Metro and Starling is B the app-based bank from Yorkshire/Clydesdale bank:

https://secure.ybonline.co.uk/personal/current-accounts/b/

eDicky

Zanderman wrote: »

An app-based alternative to Metro and Starling is B the app-based bank from Yorkshire/Clydesdale Bank

I switched to B for the bonus, but the app seems like a poor effort compared to Monzo, Starling etc. There's no in-app customer services chat, and I can't find anything about my debit card. There should at least be a way to switch the card off and on, if not selective types of transaction block that some fintech have. And as for having to watch the cute chicken twirling for at least thirty seconds to open it...

System

eDicky wrote: »

I switched to B for the bonus, but the app seems like a poor effort compared to Monzo, Starling etc. There's no in-app customer services chat, and I can't find anything about my debit card. There should at least be a way to switch the card off and on, if not selective types of transaction block that some fintech have. And as for having to watch the cute chicken twirling for at least thirty seconds to open it...

It's clearly not on the same level as Monzo,Starling etc yet

That said - you have access to Yorkshire/Clydesdale's branch networks plus card based Post Office access, if you need them.

They are also working on giving option of using the app to generate codes rather than a separate device (like First Direct)

I use the Clydesdale app which is identical to 'B' minus the dancing chickens and bright colours!

veinarde22

Still no update - looks like they're sticking to their caveated turnaround of 2 working days...

veinarde22

It took the best part of two working days, so wasn't as quick as I had hoped, but I absolutely love Starling Bank's app. Thanks very much for the recommendation! :beer:

eDicky

veinarde22 wrote: »

It took the best part of two working days, so wasn't as quick as I had hoped, but I absolutely love Starling Bank's app. Thanks very much for the recommendation!

Thanks for the update. It seems that some applicants are accepted instantly, others not, but at least when they say two working days that's what it takes.

Please let us know how long it takes your card to arrive, maybe they already told you when to expect it.

Starling is currently the best non credit card option for traveling, so it's useful to know how long it takes, to advise those who have left it late in asking for the best solution.

veinarde22

eDicky wrote: »

Thanks for the update. It seems that some applicants are accepted instantly, others not, but at least when they say two working days that's what it takes.

Please let us know how long it takes your card to arrive, maybe they already told you when to expect it.

Starling is currently the best non credit card option for traveling, so it's useful to know how long it takes, to advise those who have left it late in asking for the best solution.

It will be sent out today, so if it arrives overnight, I will have applied on a Sunday and received the physical card on the Friday. 6 days (5 working days).

I can use the card in Apple Pay immediately - 3 days (2 working days) but I don't generally use this method.

I am surprised it wasn't quicker, given I do have an excellent credit score and I'm easily traceable (it took Metro Bank seconds!) but they have delivered within the promised timescales.