Keep your money! (Abbey National)

Member Name: daisyrabbit

Product:	Abbey National
Date:	20/05/07 (139 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Useful to have somewhere to watch your money shrink!

Disadvantages: Too many charges and too high.

I was with the Abbey for bout 16 years, at first all was fine, then I got made redundant and instead of being helpful and understanding (what was I thinking they're a bank!) they heaped charges on me at regular monthly intervals, more charges being caused by charges - I spoke to their friendly helpful staff who encouraged me to increase my overdraft, after all I could afford that having lost my job and my only income at that time benefits - they waived a couple of the charges, which helped a bit.

Eventually I got another job, but my overdraft now stood at £1400, my balance was rarely, if ever, in credit. I heard that you could re-claim your charges, yes I thought now a chance to get back all the money I have paid to them.

I started the process, getting all my statements together and sent copies back to them with all the charges highlighted. I was marginally successful, they gave me back app £950. I went to the Ombudsman, as suggested and, after a while, I actually received £4325.

Naturally the first £1400 went to pay off my overdraft and I withdrew the rest as quickly as possible. It has been almost impossible to close my account and I'm now receiving statements with more charges added on - will it ever end.

My advice would be to keep your money under your mattress, at least you know what's yours and, unless you live with light-fingered people, you know that the money will still be there when you need it!

Summary: Keep your money under your mattress