How can I get my name removed from an overdrawn joint account?

[Louby3112]

Hi, I am wondering if someone can advise me on the best possible action, or if I am being unreasonable. My husband and I split up two years ago, i have been trying to get my name taken off the joint account for the last 6 months without much success. The bank will not remove my name until the account is back in credit. I have not used the joint account for over 2 years, he is constantly using the overdraft, he gets paid and the moment his funds are in the account he transfers 75% to another bank. I have even gone down to the bank the day he gets paid, but by the time the bank opens he has transferred it. I have no access to on line banking, nor do I have a bank card. I have already made a complaint to the bank but they have rejected it saying thst the money needs to be paid back before I can have my name removed. I have tried to be patient with my ex husband but I am now at my wits end. Could somebody please help me with what I might be able to do, to get this issue resolved?

Can you ask the bank to freeze the account instead? NatWest says you can.

https://www.natwest.com/life-moments/separation-and-divorce.html

Then tell him it will be unfrozen when he removes you.

Have you tried asking the bank to remove the overdraft facility? It might be possible for one account holder to do this without the other's consent. Then after his salary went in, you could ask the bank to close the account and give him the money.
Another thought: why don't you have a bank card or online banking for this account? If your name is on it, you are entitled to, and you are entitled to take money out. Threatening to do this might make your ex realise that it's easier to have a sole account instead.

Can you not get a card and access to online banking and transfer it before he does? That way you will have enough to cover the overdraft limit and get your name taken off it.

You need to get access to the app, but you may need to change the address first (if the bank have to post you a passcode for access) and at midnight on the day he gets paid quickly remove the overdraft facility.

You then call the bank first thing the next morning and close the account if you can’t just remove your name from it. If there are any funds left, take the money out and message ExH to ask what account he wants it sent to.

Thank you for your advice, I have now hot access to his bank account, can not do anything. Until he next gets paid, then I can cancel the overdraft and remove my name once and for all.