Mixed messages from NatWest and ATOL

lauriewsmith

Prior to a call today to NatWest, I was preparing to make a claim with CAA under ATOL when it opens on the 30th September for applications.
I called NatWest regarding whether a claim under the direct debit guarantee would be faster. They told me that there is nothing I need to do as they are already working on getting all the direct debit payments refunded through ATOL for everybody affected by TC collapse and they told me not to make a claim.
Has anyone else heard this? I'm a bit unsure of not making a claim- especially as they haven't contacted me. This was general information as they hadn't asked me to identify myself.
Should I wait for a refund to just happen with no prompting from me or should I make a claim?

TELLIT01

I would suggest you go into your local branch and ask the question there. Get a decision from them in writing if they are saying not to make an individual claim.

Alan_Bowen

I know the CAA has been talking to the major card issuers to try and make refunds quicker. I suspect that tomorrow, 30th, when the claims process opens, the CAA will set out exactly what arrangements have been made, and with which banks, so rather than travel to your bank, wait and see what the CAA says.

lauriewsmith

Huh! They were right! This was taken from the CAA website just now:
"ATOL protected passengers with future bookings are entitled to a full refund for their cancelled holiday. This will be the largest ever ATOL refund programme – some three times bigger than the previous largest.

For the first time, we are now able to automatically refund those customers who paid for their holiday via direct debit. If you booked one of the 100,000 holidays, directly with Thomas Cook, made via this method you will be contacted to let you know that you will shortly be receiving your refund, which will be paid straight into your bank account. We expect that these refunds will begin to be processed this week and paid within 14 days."
I guess I don't have to claim..

It says this is only for DD payments though. Debit and Credit card payments still need to be applied for but that is pushed back to 7th Oct to apply.

bradders1983

Credit card payers should be instructing their credit card providers to do S75 chargebacks, this is what the advise was when Monarch went under and will be a hell of a lot quicker than ATOL.