NatWest Debt

[channel99]

I had a current account overdraft with NatWest of over �4k. I was making reduced payments.

I stopped making payments about 5 years ago and I have not heard anything from them since.

Anyway, I now need a bank account with a debit card as Nationwide (even though i have been with them for 4 years) will still not give me any failities on my account apart from a cashcard!

I have applied with NatWest and they have given me a Step account with a Solo card which is ideal.

I am however reluctant to pay my salary into the account just in case they take the lot in payment towards the outstanding �4k.

Are they allowed to do this or am I just being over cautious?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers

[factor-fiction]

The �4000 debt from 5 years ago may now have reached �8000.
Did you move and not tell them? Or change your name? Seems odd they have not pursued you for the money and have now given you an account. I'm surprised you even applied to Nat West in the circumstances.

[thetraveller]

its highly likely that you now have a CCJ against your name and that would be why they have not collected, get your credit file from Experian, Equifax & Call Credit and see for yourself, they may not take your salary but by applying to them and their giving you a step account they now know where you live so dont be surprised if you dont get a knock on your door soon from a collection agency. my best advise is, if you owe them money, save up between 2-3 thousand and IF they havent been in touch by then, call them, tell them you owe them, offer them full and final payment in settlement for what you have saved and get a letter of satisfaction from them, send a copy to the reference agencies (listed above) and settle your CCJ. hope that helps

[CheekyChops]

Just get an account with a totally unconnected Bank. Problem solved.

[themas]

The answer to your question is Yes, they can keep any money you pay into the account unless you exercise the right of first appropriation (google it - its not all that simple to do & you have to do it every time some money is going in).

It was a bit short sighted of you to go to NatWest. You could try Co-op Bank for their basic account.