Bank accounts and debt
Your bank or building society can take money from your account if you have a debt with the same banking group.
It is important that you have all your income paid into a bank or building society account that is not linked to any of your debts.
To make sure this doesn’t happen it is important that you have all your income paid into a bank or building society account that is not linked to any of your debts. The Lending Standards Board website lists the main banking groups.
If you need to open a new account, you should ask for a basic account. This is an account without a credit facility (for example an overdraft). Your wages or benefits can be paid into this. You will still be able to withdraw money from a cash point and set up standing orders and direct debits.
If you apply for a basic bank account, your credit history should not affect your application. You can find more information about basic bank accounts on the Money Advice Service website.
