Bank account which accepts Australian $ cheques

LizW

I used to live in Australia and have been sent a cheque by their tax office.  My bank, Nationwide, don't accept foreign currency cheques as they don't have an international network and have suggested using Western Union but they aren't accepting cheques either and have suggested asking at a high street bank.  I presume I would have to open an account to bank the cheque - does anyone know which bank would be be more appropriate - i.e HSBC, Santander, Barclays, NatWest?  I'd only be using it for this transaction. Thanks

jonesMUFCforever

I would keep quiet about the reason you opened the new account (unless you open online) otherwise you would get short rift.
As a new  customer you will have no track record with them so expect the cheque to be sent on a collection basis - many weeks of waiting for your money.

EssexExile

Once you open an account with another bank it would be a good idea to keep it active. One bank account is never a good idea, a whole host of problems could bar access to your money.

LizW

Thanks - I think all accounts have to be opened online at the moment so that isn't an issue - I just want to make sure I'm choosing the right bank that will definitely accept the cheque.  Good point re keeping the account open.

[Deleted User]

HSBC accept we get them all the time from the Aussie in laws. 

jonesMUFCforever

LizW said:

Thanks - I think all accounts have to be opened online at the moment so that isn't an issue - I just want to make sure I'm choosing the right bank that will definitely accept the cheque.  Good point re keeping the account open.

All of the old high street banks will accept them as long as you have a current account. (Barclays Lloyds HSBC Nat West Santander HBOS and TSB)