A Bitter Taste, But What Next?

[Inzi]

My issues began when I sat trying to organise my finances,

as having recently become a single parent

my finances are going to be extremely tight if I'm not careful.

My sometimes awful management of money cannot continue.

 

I had an idea come to mind.

It involved creating an individual savings account per event,

per bill

and per any other expense envisioned.

 

I went about putting this into practice.

 

Created the accounts,

named them as per their purpose

and even added what amount is due in each ones title.

 

It worked, I could create as many savings accounts as I desired (14),

then have all my money transferring on pre-determined dates as required.

That's where I left it for now though

- I'd have came back on to set the transfers another day.

 

Soon [1night, or 1or2 days] after I've done this

and the bank has let me create these accounts,

my internet banking becomes blocked by the bank.

 

On my first phone call,

I was told quite literally:

Close these accounts or find another bank.

 

I react by showing surprise (in tones mainly, few non offensive nor aggravating words),

but soon accept it's their show.

I fully agreed to closure of those accounts in order for me to regain internet banking access.

 

I'm told my internet banking should now allow access.

It doesn't, so I gave it a day or two.

 

(This operator handling the above had the most awful manner. I'm a polite man (I hope).

Her undertones were though - whilst remaining employable - those of a discreetly belittling context.)

 

The second phone call.

 

More of the same (except for a great attitude from operators from here onwards).

 

A different variation on the explanation for why the bank is not allowing my multiple accounts,

but told the delay on regaining access is due to closure of the savings accounts taking up to 4 days.

 

A week later.

Another call or two.

I'm now told I must take identification into the bank

...then...

my problem will be resolved.

 

It's feeling a very drawn out issue by now, even the phone bill is entering my mind.

 

But, I reluctantly pop into the local Halifax branch as requested.

 

The gent takes my ID,

makes his call to resolve the problem,

 

He came off the phone and informs me I've been sent a letter,

stating that all bank accounts are being closed in 60 days time. (!!!!????)

He also mentioned that a repayment plan will "probably" be set up in order to repay the overdraft.

 

I feel utterly gob-smacked, penalised and a little bit humiliated

- particularly after having been a customer for 12 years.

 

I'm sure I've not got a leg to stand on.

But now feel completely deflated

- taken steps to move on with my tail between my legs -

but wondering if I've just been bullied out of my Current Account for unfair reasons.

If they'd spent I feel mere minutes, they'd have seen the accounts have not been used fraudulently.

 

My minds floating between...

Account closed due to them;

A combination of their lack of having a limit in place

and then lack of properly looking into my case?

Account closed due to me;

I'm at fault, as they should never have been expected to limit number I could create

through their internet banking site?

 

There has been only a matter of 40 pounds shared between a few of these savings accounts,

if the history is properly reviewed, it's clear I've done no wrong.

 

If they'd SIMPLY had set a limit on the number somebody can create,

I'd not be here now and still have my 12 year old bank account.

I have to wonder, would they have done this to a man with millions,

would he have the time invested into justly treating him?

 

Please.

 

Any advice would be appreciated.

 

Am I being penalised?

 

Or does me being penalised for their poorly implemented limitations matter?

 

I'm not even sure what to ask.

 

I'd just be grateful for any direction.

 

I'm more than happy to answer any questions (I think).

 

~ Neil

Edited February 28, 2014 by Inzi

[fkofilee]

Hi Niel

 

Unfortunately the company can close your accounts whenever they see fit.

 

Try moving to another bank... Etc, why not try first direct or coop

[Inzi]

A shame as they showed pathetic management of this case. They hang you out to dry like no other industry can - that's not right.

 

I've applied to other banks already. I immediately upon returning home went for a couple of the 'basic' accounts. Liking what I see of the Think Money account, so I think I'll be accepting their terms when they show up. It certainly sounds a nice prospect only being able to see the cash I have to spend in my bank account available to me. That'll alleviate some of my idiocy.

 

Also having the paperwork sent to me from the co-op'. But worry about any potential bounced payment charges, I would rather pay Think Money's flat rate of £14,95 just to be safe for now.

 

One positive is that I wasn't going to be able to clear my overdraft any time soon. As a result I was paying 28 pound or more a month in charges. Now, I get to clear my overdraft in instalments, something I only months ago enquired about - yet Halifax couldn't facilitate.

 

When they come calling to discuss a repayment plan for the overdraft. They'll soon come to realise how low my available funds are. I'll be armed with every expenditure I have, they're in for a long repayment plan.