I sent money into the wrong account and they spent it

gracie_edser

So my partner was trying to pay £600 rent to our landlord and accidentally sent it to the wrong person. This person was saved as he used to work with them and had the same first name. We disputed it with the bank and messaged the individual. They said this wasn’t their bank account and hadn’t received any money. Our bank (Monzo) said that they were waiting to hear back from the individuals bank (Barclays) Nearly 3 months later we finally heard back, the individual had spent the money and according to Barclays there’s nothing they can do now. Can someone please tell us what we can do now? Legally do Barclays have to give our money back or have we lost it for good? Any advice is appreciated, thank you in advance. 

colsten

You can't expect Barclays or Monzo to re-imburse you as neither of them has made a mistake.

As your partner knows who he sent the money to, he could take them to Court if they don't want to cooperate. Have a look at the Money Claim Online guide and decide whether it's worth your while. 

Thrugelmir

If you know who the individual is. Use the small claims court to pursue recovery. 

digalumps

also the person receiving it comitted a criminal offence by spending it so although it won't help getting your moneyback you could report it to the police.

This would help should you go the small claims route.

eskbanker

gracie_edser said:

So my partner was trying to pay £600 rent to our landlord and accidentally sent it to the wrong person. This person was saved as he used to work with them and had the same first name. We disputed it with the bank and messaged the individual. They said this wasn’t their bank account and hadn’t received any money.

How long ago did your partner previously send money to this person?  Account numbers can be recycled so if it was years ago then it's plausible that the other person's story is true, or at least it may be more challenging to prove that it isn't....

jonnygee2

We disputed it with the bank and messaged the individual. They said this wasn’t their bank account and hadn’t received any money. 

I would just politely let them know that you have discovered that it is criminal theft to keep money transferred in error (it is). 

Tell them that you understand that it wasn't them, but you are letting them know as you imagine that the police will be in contact with them to establish ownership of the account.

See how they react. If you don't hear anything, follow through.