Changing from Basic Bank Account to a Current Account

[CromartyForthTyneDogger]

Roughly 6 years ago I got in a horrible mess with money. StepChange helped me set up a DMP, which I'm still paying, and I took out a Basic Bank Account with Santander.

Im finding the Basic Bank Account difficult to use - for example I can't use Paypal when I buy things online - my card is declined. Today I tried to renew my car breakdown cover and again my card was declined - even though I have more than enough money in my account to cover the payment. I have to ask relatives to pay on my behalf & then refund them, and that gets embarrassing.

I can't actually get through to talk to a real person at Santander. I would quite like to switch back to a normal current account so I can use Paypal and not have to have embarrassing convsations with people - I won't want to set up an overdraft etc, - but I am anxious about being rejected.

Any advice or information about similar experiences gratefully received.

I used to work for a high street bank and would complete account upgrades regularly. I know with Halifax you used to be able to see before doing an application whether or not you would be accepted, maybe Santander have the same system? Could be worth a branch visit or a phone call to see if they can check this before hand.

You don’t have to accept an overdraft although you may be offered one, just say no thanks. Banks have to offer informed choice rather then advice - so whatever the system offers you, the colleague has to discuss the product eg overdraft, credit card etc. But just be firm and explain that you don’t want anything else.

Maybe see where your credit score is sitting at now using clear score or credit karma before you speak to Santander too.

Nationwide were great when I declared myself bankrupt (admittedly 20 years ago now!) They gave me a basic account, then after a few years upgraded it to a normal one with a debit card and overdraft facility. I'm still with them now.

If you are unable to get a classic bank account, I would recommend a HyperJar MasterCard. My DC and I all have them—I don’t use mine often, as I mainly have it for DCs’ pocket Money, but any time I’ve used it online, I’ve never had any problems paying for anything. The only caveats are that all bank transfers in need to be £10+ and you’re only allowed 4 free bank transfers out from HyperJar per month.

If you are still paying the DMP it is unlikely that you will be offered a current account. A basic account shouldn’t stop you from paying direct debits. Have you spoken to Santander on why your payments are rejected?

@Wolfpa I've tried to phone Santander but speaking to a real person was impossible - it was either an automated phone line (press 1 to do xyz etc, none of which was relevant) or an online chat which kept jumping in before I'd typed my question, answering something completely different. I'd love to have a chat to a real person at Santander.

Can you go into a branch?

Are you the OP with a new name?