First Direct DPA charges

[paulmc60]

I called First Direct earlier and asked for online access to statements prior to Jan 2004 (internet banking only lets you view for the previous 27 months). After being put on hold for 5 minutes I was told that this can't be done but that they would send me paper copies for £2.50 each. When I queried the charge I was again put on hold and eventually spoke to a supervisor who could only tell me that this is an admin charge because someone has to print copies off and post them to me. I've declined their offer for the time being.

 

I then spoke to the Information Commissioners Office (01625 545 745 then press 1 for DPA helpline). They told me that it's up to the bank how much they charge and there is no standard charge.

 

I think I'll just write to First Direct asking for dates and amounts of charges they've taken from me over the last 6 years.

[dazza12]

The Information Commissioner is correct, it is up to the bank to charge whatever they want for copy statements.

 

I would suspect you've probably not approached the bank correctly. You've asked for copy statements, and this is exactly what the bank are offering you.

 

It would be better for you to write to the bank using the DPA template letter listed in the library section of this site and enclosing a cheque for £10. This will get you the information that you need. It will also give you details of manual actions on your account, which will normally show there's hardly any work on the bank's part in applying these charges.

 

At that point, the bank may supply copy statements to cover the entire period requested (in fact the letter states this is acceptable) as prior case law has dictated this.

[paulmc60]

Thanks Dazza. Done that.

[Pogle]

When I sent my DPA request to FD, I pointed out to them clearly in the letter that the maximum they could charge was £10, and that they could take the letter as my authority to deduct up to £10 from the account. I received my statements 4 days later, but they've never charged me a penny for the statements

[ducky2007]

I wonder if someone can help me, I understand that FD is a division of HSBC. Should I include my accounts with FD on my letter to HSBC and send it to the same address? I'm goinng to use

 

HSBC bank plc

Data Protection Officer

8 Canada Square

London,

E14 5HQ

 

Thanks in advance for your help.

[paulmc60]

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