Alternative to a Nationwide account?

Malc`

Hi,

I'm going to America for 3 months soon and I have just applied for my nationwide account for worldwide free withdrawals and they are writing to me to let me know what they can offer me.

I'm a bit concerned as a friend of mine was told during the application process that he would be getting a debit card and cheque book, I didnt. I have a good credit history as far as I know, never been charged interest on any credit cards and never even used my overdraft.

If I don't get offered a flexaccount, is there an alternative bank that offer anything similar? I already have a post office credit card which I know does worldwide transactions, but I wont be able to withdraw any money with it

Any advice appreciated.
Malc

brightonman123

i dont think UK cheques would be accepted anyway..

try one of the prepaid cads (tuxedo, etc - i have a referral code somewhere, if you want to pm me) - can load cash on just like toping up a mobile.

B.E.N

The 'Abbey Zero' credit card offers no loading on foreign transactions. Also, as it's a credit card, you should be able to get 'Section 75' (?) protection from fraudulent use of the card abroad...

System

Malc` wrote: »

Hi,

I'm going to America for 3 months soon and I have just applied for my nationwide account for worldwide free withdrawals and they are writing to me to let me know what they can offer me.

I'm a bit concerned as a friend of mine was told during the application process that he would be getting a debit card and cheque book, I didnt. I have a good credit history as far as I know, never been charged interest on any credit cards and never even used my overdraft.

If I don't get offered a flexaccount, is there an alternative bank that offer anything similar? I already have a post office credit card which I know does worldwide transactions, but I wont be able to withdraw any money with it

Any advice appreciated.
Malc

They may give you their cash card account, which still gives free cash withdrawals abroad. Combined with a PO credit card, would keep you going, just set it to direct debit your cash card account for the full value each month.

The next best thing would be Barclays, their debit card will give you charge free (but still with 2.75% of commission) access to Bank of America machines. Its called Global Alliance, and covers some other countries too.

Jonny0000

I was unaware Nationwide offered free cash withdrawals abroad until I travelled with some friends recently. However they found that they were charged at the foreign end for using cash point services, so whether this means free only from the nationwide side, or you have to use certain banks abroad for truly free withdrawals is probably worth checking out. I would be interested to know if you find out.

I don't know much about other cards abroad but it is nice to hear heng leng say Barclays are good, I know they offer free withdrawals with BOA which are everywhere in the states as you would imagine so that was very convenient. The 2% charge is pretty standard anyway and is the same for most credit card purchases abroad.

It would be nice to have a full comparison of UK account options abroad as i have a few. If anyone knows of a link please pass it on.

Chadsman

Cumberland Building Society also do not charge for using their cards abroad
hxxp://www.cumberland.co.uk/
...but you have to live near a branch to open an account with them.