The New Top Easy Access Savings Discussion Area

ToastLady

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82103755#Comment_82103755

If VPN isn't working, is your phone time UK time? Unsure if that makes a difference or not, but worth a try.
Also try switching location off, although VPN might require it.

SFCooper

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82103646#Comment_82103646

Thank you for your assistance.

pepsi_max2k

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82103795#Comment_82103795

Tried with GPS off, it gives a notification in app asking for it to be turned on to determine your location (you can ignore it and keep it off but obv getting message about not being in uk later on) - not seen something like that in other banking apps before. Can't imagine the time will help with anything. VPN working and confirmed with metrobank (who also block you outside uk but vpn solves it).

ToastLady

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82104304#Comment_82104304

Using Spring App Abroad on Holiday

Sorry suggestions didn't work. I checked my phone and only have location on for VPN app, and time is set to UK time, just thought that may have been something to do with it working for me.
One other thing is, I had to use mobile data, as wifi is a bit flaky where I am, and app kept timing out. Don't suspect that if you have good wifi, that would be an issue.

Edited to add:-
I just tried Spring App without VPN on mobile data, phone time set to UK and it worked. No idea now, but maybe it is the time on device that matters? Obviously total guesswork on my part.
I've had the Spring App and account for a wee while now, obviously set up in UK, so whether that makes a difference?

pfpf

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82102936#Comment_82102936

FYI: the "invite a friend" is now working but there is no financial incentive to use it - odd.

friolento

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82104304#Comment_82104304

Coventry is, or at least was, another one which doesn’t work outside the UK, not even with VPN. IIRC, Ecology BS only works with VPN if you are abroad.

masca

Spring

I was encouraged to apply for a Spring account (despite trying to keep the number of my app-only accounts to a minimum) based on some comments here about the simple application process, but sadly I've had the opposite experience. Firstly having to faff about with selfies and ID photos, followed by a delay whilst they considered my application, then issues with the app yesterday (couldn't log on for some time), and today I've finally actually been able to apply for the 5% account only to receive another notice that my application is being reviewed again for potentially another business day! A lot of effort for an addition ~£20 per year - cute dog aside! I understand that banks are required to do their due diligence, but why can some savings accounts be opened in a few clicks (eg: my experience with Ecology BS last week was exemplary), and perhaps at worse a bank statement, and others have to request so much personal data, and to make matters worse, via a third party??? Such hoops should surely be required only for current account facilities?

ThePirates

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82104424#Comment_82104424

I opened my (new customer account) with them in less than 5 minutes. No photo ID or anything required.

I wonder if it's something to do with being able to find you on some electronic database?

masca

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82104434#Comment_82104434

II don't think so... As I mentioned, no such issues with the other accounts I opened last week (admittedly all RSs, but still savings accounts). I've been at the current address for 4+ years, used my normal nominated current account, etc.

pepsi_max2k

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82104331#Comment_82104331

It's the setup that's the issue. Using it would usually be easier, VPN at most.