Turned down for a Co Op bank account

[Brownowl]

I have to get a new bank account before my IVA can go forward but I have been turned down for a co-op account. Will this affect my ability to go elsewhere and if not then can anyone recommend where I try? I am awareof smile and think but really do not want to have to pay for a bank account or is this my only option now?
Thanks if you can help me

[Sarah]

Morning

Why dont you try Natwest, I think they are great and you can apply for one of their accounts online.

[iva experts]

Hello Brownowl and Welcome to the Forum,

Getting a basic bank account can prove to be quite difficult, however alot of people on this forum have successfully opened bank accounts before entering an IVA or BR.

You could try the follow bank accounts:

- Nationwide - Flex Account
- Abbey - Card Cash
- Halifax - Easy cash Account
- Lloyds - Classic Account

The two most important things to remember whilst choosing a bank account is 1. The lender can not be one of your creditors and 2. It must be a basic bank account with no credit facilities attached.

Best of Luck.

Best Regards. IVA Experts

[Rainbow]

Just to say that I agree with Sarah we have opened a Step Account with Natwest and have taken advantage of their Advantage Blue and get car breakdown assistance for £6.00per month plus a whole bunch of other potential savings!

[Brownowl]

Thanks for the info but I can't try Nationwide or LLoyds as they are creditors. Do Natwest run a credit check cos that is why the Co op turned me down ?

[Rainbow]

I presume they do but we had history of missing payments and maybe one default plus two DMP on our credit file at the time and they accepted us - Give it a go we did it all on line.
Good Luck
Rainbow

[Storm]

The only thing Natwest have a problem with is large CCJ's registered fairly recently - and post IVA there system has a problem with IVA's / bankruptcy flags.

If you apply online or in a branch ensure you apply for a step account.

The account doesn't use a creditscore as such - but does have some criteria as above.

[Brownowl]

Well I have applied (online) and was told I have been approved in principal so fingers crossed. Will let you know how I get on and thank you for the advice

[Brownowl]

Well I have my new bank account [:)] NatWest accepted me for a Step account and I received the debit card today - what a relief that was and now its just a question of transferring all my direct debits.
Thanks for the help guys

[Adam Davies]

Hi Brownowl
Thats good to hear.
regards

Andy Davie
IVA.co.uk Spokesperson

About me:
http://www.iva.co.uk/andy_davie_profile.asp

IVA Helpline: 0800 197 4838
http://www.iva.co.uk/iva_helpline.asp