Thread: Overdraft and Charges on Business Account

Me and a friend opened a business account with Barclays at the age of 17; at the time thinking it would be necessary for our small music promotion company we were running.

We used the account for maybe 6 months, then stopped using it and forgot about it. Ever since the account has been charged monthly, to the point where the balance eventually dropped below zero, and further charges were made for the account being overdrawn.

The account hasn't been used for about 2 years, and the balance now stands at about -£900. Money which me, or my friend, have no hope of paying.

As stated before, when we opened the account, we were both 17, and our parents signed nothing. Our overdraft limit is £0, yet we have still managed to accumulate £900 of debt on our account.

I've been scared of sorting out the problem for a while, because of the money involved, but if I leave it any longer, it's only going to get worse.

I am wondering if anybody knows whether it'd be possible to get the account safely closed, without having to pay the £900? On the basis that I don't think it's legal for 17 year olds to make agreements which can lead them into debt.

Thanks in advance for any help you can offer.

Welcome to the site.

You say that you opened this at 17 ?
So how long exactly was that ago ?

What was the name of the account ?
Do you still have any paperwork from when you opened this ?

I am moving this into the business bank forums.

Originally Posted by MARTIN3030

Welcome to the site.

You say that you opened this at 17 ?
So how long exactly was that ago ?

What was the name of the account ?
Do you still have any paperwork from when you opened this ?

Thank you.

Yes, it was opened at the age of 17, which was 3 years ago. The account is called 'Barclays Business Essentials'. I have no paperwork, as in a contract or anything, for the account, just the card and chequebooks.

I was under the impression that under 18s can't legally enter a binding contract or accumulate debt. However, I'm unsure if the fact I've done nothing about it for the last 2 years will really work in my favour.