My bank charged me �30 for unauthorised o/d by �1.00

[mountainboo]

Is this correct can anyone tell me? I realise that they are within their rights to charge for going overdrawn without an authorised limit however as I explained to them it was a mistake and is not something I make a habit of doing. I have sent two letters of complaint and had only one response saying they are "investigating the complaint". Does no one else think that this is extortionate? The transaction that took me over drawn was a mere �3.00 on my debit card, why didn't they decline the payment when I used my card?

[CheekyChops]

If it was a 'switch' or visa debit card then the shops usually have a floor limit, say �50. Anything under this is automaticaly authorised. That is how a 'switch' or visa debit card differs from a 'solo' or visa delta card, with solo or visa delta, every transaction needs authorisation, no matter how small. That is probably why the transaction wasn't declined.

As to whether it is extortionate, then yes, I think it is. Saying that, my bank (NatWest) have charged me this on many occasions for going less than a fiver over my limit!!

[CheekyChops]

I think I'm getting confused with the visa cards. Apparently visa electron is the one that needs immediate authorisation, visa delta doesn't.

[pinkpoodle19]

Do you not watch the news lol. What the banks are doing is illegal and you can claim back your money. Go to www.ITV.com/tonight for details.