www.iva.co.uk

Hi there, been looking at many posts on here about opening new bank accounts. My IVA is almost finished, and last payment is due next month. I've been using thinkbanking since the start of IVA, but now looking to change as I can't justify the monthly cost any more. Seems like co-op is the favourite pick on the forum. Can someone confirm which debit card you receive with the basic Cashminder account - is it a proper Visa or a Visa Electron? Many thanks.

Hi, well done on getting to the end!!

I believe it is a proper Visa debit card but I'm sure someone will confirm that.

Hi - it is a proper visa card, however some stores recognise it as a visa electron (the first few numbers on the card refers to electron).

I have had no problems with this. Tescos have to give me cash if I return an item as it won't let them refund, and if purchasing on some websites I have to enter as electron.

Its a visa,I havent had any problems using it.

Does anyone else with a co op account have the little card reader thing for online banking?(looks like a calculator).

Paul

Not got one with the Co-op but do have one with Barclays.

I've got one Paul and I hate it as I can't just think I'll transfer money now, I have to make sure I've got the card reader!

Did you download that rapport trusteer software?

I think its great,when I was setting up my post office account I had to put in my co op account number(so I can make transfer back and forward),and the rapport pinged up warning me I was entering my bank details onto a website that I dont normally use(so you cant get caught out on a phishing sight!!).

I do like the co op,pity they wont let me place any savings with them??!!

Paul

I love my Barclays one - much easier than having to remember pass numbers and memorable data all the time.

Thanks for the feedback guys. I do have some concerns that it is considered an electron card in some circumstances - could have implications on using it on foreign websites or abroad, and for refunds.

I'm also considering the Nationwide basic account. Does anyone have any comments or positives/negatives when comparing Co-Op vs Nationwide? Does that offer a full visa? Thanks.

Nationwide offers a full Visa - I have an account with them and they upgradeded the card last year and I have not had any problems with it at all.

Kallis - is that the basic 'cashcard account' with Nationwide?

I have a nationwide, basic cash builder, is good for everything, direct debits, standing orders, online bank transfers etc and comes with a full visa.

Be warned I have a nationwide cashplus normal looking visa card - there basic bank account it does have limitations in terms of working abroad can't take cash out & it is an electronic card only so it can't be used where authorisation cannot be obtained - having said that the only place it was a pain was at 37000 feet when it wouldn't authorise.
What about Yorkshire bank? I have there basic account and it comes with a maestro (switch) card. Never had one issue with that card even at 37000ft!!! Can't comment on co-op as they are a creditor so didn't go there!!!
You will be saving £150 a year when you switch?

I have a Yorkshire Bank Maestro and have no problems in the UK or online however found it very difficult to use abroad. Admittedly that was in China but people with visa and mastercard had no difficulties.

ok - looks like the cash builder is a savings account so prob won't be going for that, I think the cashcard account sounds more appropriate. Yes I read that you can't withdraw cash abroad but you can use for purchases which sounds ok to me.

Yorkshire bank there aren't enough branches around for me.

Yes saving £150 per year while I switch. Thinkbanking have been good I admit, but I have given them about £700 while in an IVA which wouldn't be assigned on my I&E which I think is unfair, and now I would like to keep that bit extra each month.