UK Current account advice

[TSR2]

Hi Chaps,

Looking to switch current accounts and one of the big things for me is the online banking. I'm with Natwest at the moment and when I view my recent transactions its shows both the account balance and the available balance, the later takes into account any pending transactions so is the "real" figure of what's available. I know the Co-op for example don't show this figure, so you never really know where you're at unless you make a continual note of every time you use your debit card.

Can any of you who use online banking with banks other than Natwest / RBS advise if their banks online services show the real available balance if that makes sense.

Cheers

[thehappyotter]

Halifax do and, by association, I assume Lloyds TSB do too. The online systems are gradually becoming similar.

[Vancouver]

Yes I have a Halifax and although I don't use the International transactions facility (fees exxy, rates poor compared to money traders) I do use them online to Tx cash to a trader and in 8 years have found them faultless and efficient.

[TSR2]

Cheers matey, but is Halifax not using the old Bank of Scotland system at the moment? (or Visa Versa)

You'd think they'd have demos of their online banking available on their sites wouldn't you. Barclays don't even have a number you can ring for help, its online "chat" to India.

[NigelC]

Santander show Current Balance and Available Balance.

N

[TSR2]

I'm a bit funny about Santander, what with the Spanish banks situation.

[GHD]

Stick with NatWest Ben.

[TSR2]

I'm tempted mate, but they're going to start charging me £6 a month for an overdraft that's only used in emergencies such as when I'm traveling for work. Its handy to have when I end up traveling a lot as it covers the petrol etc until the expenses get paid. Its only a few hundred pounds, but I begrudge paying for it considering what goes into it (and the savings account) each month. I'm thinking that if I'm going to have to pay for my banking, are there any better ones out there? but I'm not sure there are. I was with Ulster Bank (which was always part of Natwest long before RBS came along) then RBS when I was in Edinburgh and now Natwest. I did have a spell with the co-op who were very good... with the exception of their online banking.

[GHD]

Hmm, I have dabbled with a few banks but always returned to the National Provincial (as was when I was a student).

[ianhind]

I use my credit card for company expenses which are paid by the time the bill comes round.

If that doesn't work for you, ask for a company credit card or see if they will pay the £6 a month.

Ian