Opening Bank Account. Referred??

mrjam

Hi,

I went to Natwest to open a STEP account, their basic account. I have a credit score of 412 from 1000 which im trying to build up gradually.

Firstly, my friend went in recently, he has a credit score of 195 from 1000 due to years of catalogue abuse, he requested a step account which was opened and account number, sort code generated on the spot.

When i went in, i requested the step account, i was told my application had been "referred to head office for approval" which could take upto 14 days im told. What is the reason for this? I have a good salary (£24k), no debts, etc

Im really baffled.

Thanks,

YorkshireBoy

You reported in a previous thread that a loan company had accused you of 'tampering' with a bank statement you'd supplied when you claimed not to have received a loan advance by CHAPS.

If they considered you had acted fraudulently, maybe they have put some form of CIFAS marker on your credit file?

Then again, it might just be procedural on the part of NatWest.

mrjam

Hi Guys,

YorkshireBoy, thanks for that. I may have a problem. Im very worried!

After buying my credit report online today, ive found that there are 5 CIFAS warnings on my credit file, all under differing names from a 3 month period at the beginning of 2007. All are applications for unsecured loans with Northern Rock / The AA and EGG.

What does this mean for me? Ive looked on the CIFAS site and it says it doesnt have an impact, but i still want to know how these have got on my file? Im very pi**ed off to say the least as im sure you can imagine.

Cheers for any help in understanding,

YorkshireBoy

It's been a while since I visited the CIFAS site, but I recall they had a very good FAQ section, and a telephone number to ring for advice.

I understand some of the CIFAS markers (particular code numbers) are put on your file for your own (rather than the lenders) protection...particularly where you have previously been the victim of identity fraud.

Maybe NatWest have certain procedures to follow, under the circumstances, before formalising the acceptance?

Suggest you ring both NatWest and CIFAS to put your mind at ease.

mrjam

Thanks YorkshireBoy i will definately call them both.

Im just totally at a loss as to how these are on my file, i live alone, ive lived here 7 years, and there are 5 applications in 5 different names to 4 different companies, all listed under CIFAS warnings.

It says on the CIFAS site that fraudsters use different names, but i dont know why they are listed on my address, i just dont get it.

Maybe its the postman, he has access to my mail? lol. :mad:

cifpower

I always believed that CIFAS flags and Notices OF Correction automatically make banks refer applications for further investigation.