Trouble opening bank account with the abbey

I think this is just standard, they want proof of overdrafts and for the switcher service they also need to see your direct debits and such like so that they can transfer them for you. They are a good bank so a worth the hassle.

All the banks will ask the same. The penalties they can incur if they breach the strict money laundering regulations have made them become paranoid.

I had an curious incident with Smile when I decided to move my account with them. They refused to open it based on the information I gave them - I think based on the fact that I hadn't lived at my present address for long enough or that I hadn't been in my job for long enough! I then tried doing it at my previous (parents) address and they turned me down again. So I gave up and just opened a savings account. After they had opened the savings account I applied again for a current account and they accepted straight away!

In message , alfi writes

They will be frightened to death of the Money Laundering Regulations.

Myself and a business partner have had separate accounts with an RBS for several years, and did all the identity stuff to open it.

We then wanted to open a joint account with the same branch, and they made us do the passport, and utility bill stuff, all over again.

I think you just have to live with it.