opening a bank account

Joerg

I am trying to open a bank account with first direct (HSBC). I took them 2 months to request more identification but could not specify what exactly. No finally my request was refused as my credit rating is not good. I have asked the bank to publish these findings but they do not do it (on the grounds they do not possess the information). I think this is b... as they make their decision based on those information. Can I force the bank to explain their decision transparently (compensation to small claims court)? Do I have a chance to push them? Thanks for your thoughts.

skyrider007

Order your £2 statutory credit reports from all CRAs (CallCredit, Experian, Equifax) and see if there is any adverse information on it. HSBC would advise you the same, they are not obliged to tell you why you have been rejected.

Gillianh2

you will need to get a copy of your credit file. The Main 3 are experian, Equifax and Call Credit. If as you say your credit rating is not good, then you may find it difficult to open a bank account. You should have a read of the Basic Bank account thread. You should be able to open a basic account with very little trouble. You cannot force the bank to explain "transparently" why they refused your request and you certainly cannot claim compensation from them. They are entitled to choose who they have as customers.