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Will I have to Change my Bank Account if I go Bankrupt?

Will I have to Change my Bank Account if I go Bankrupt?

You can have a bank account if you are bankrupt. However you may have to change the bank account you are currently using.

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Will you have to change your Bank Account if you go Bankrupt?

If you are planning to go bankrupt you are likely to have to change your bank account. Most bank’s internal policies mean they have to close any current account in your name within a week or so of you going bankrupt.

However there is no need to panic. You can have a bank acount while you are bankrupt. It just has to be a basic one. Most banks will allow you to operate this type of account during your bankruptcy.

Many banks offer basic accounts with a debt card and internet banking for free. However this is not always the case (for example Barclays withdraw the internet banking facility once you go bankrupt). You should check with the bank before you apply.

If you do not owe money to the bank you are currently using they should allow you to simply transfer to their basic account. If you do it is best to open one with an unrelated bank.

When should you change Bank Account?

Generally speaking it is sensible to open a new basic account before you go Bankrupt. This way you can ensure it is up and running by the time your old one is closed.

You can approach your current bank if you do not owe them money or an unrelated one. Be honest and tell them that you will be going bankrupt. They will then understand the requirement and normally be able to help.

Some banks will only be willing to open a basic account for you after you are bankrupt. If so do not worry. The account you are currently using will usually remain open for 7-10 days after the date of your bankruptcy. This will give you plently of time to get a new one open.

Some banks have specific rules regarding their basic accounts and bankruptcy. For example the Co-Op basic Cashminder account can only be opened before you go bankrupt not afterwards.

Can you still use a Joint Bank Account after you go Bankrupt?

It is normally best not to try and continue using a joint account if you are planning to go bankrupt. It would only ever be possible to do this if the account is a basic one.

Where you have a current account in joint names you will need to remove your name prior to bankruptcy. This will ensure that it will remain open and the other account holder can continue to use it.

If there is an outsanding overdraft on your joint account the bank will not allow you to remove your name. In these circumstances it might be best if you both stop using the account and open separate accounts elsewhere.

You will be protected from any overdraft on a joint account by your bankruptcy. However the other account holder will remain liable to pay the outstanding balance.

Options for getting a new Bank Account if you are already Bankrupt

If you are already bankrupt but have not previously made arrangements to open a new bank account you can do so now if you wish. Most banks will allow you to open a new basic account with them at any time during your bankruptcy.

You will not be able to apply for a new current account until after you are discharged. However even then you may have to wait until your credit rating has improved.

The record of bankruptcy will remain on your credit file for 6 years from the start date. It may not be possible for you to get a standard current account until this record has dropped off your file.

Need more advice about your bank account and bankruptcy? Call us on 0800 044 3194 or complete the form below.

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Comments 10

  1. Jimy
    28.02.2022

    How much can I keep in my account while I am bankrupt

    1. 28.02.2022

      Hi Jimy

      On the day you go bankrupt, the maximum amount you should have in your account should be sufficient to cover your living expenses until your next wages or benefits are received. Any more than this and the Official Receiver could demand you hand the excess over to them.

      After you are bankrupt, there is no real limit to the amount you can keep in your account. For example, if you are able to save money from your agreed living expenses each month, you can keep these funds. The balance will build up over time but this is not an issue. These funds do not form part of your bankruptcy estate so the official receiver can’t touch them.

  2. Graham
    28.09.2020

    Hi

    Could you kindly advise regarding the following.

    My partner ‘s now divorced Ex husband was bankrupt due to gambling debts. She was implicated as she was unaware of the situation until their divorce.

    Can we set up a joint account without affecting my credit rating ?

    I would be grateful for your advice

    Many Thanks

    1. 28.09.2020

      Hi Graham

      Your options will depend on whether your partner’s credit rating is currently good or bad. If you are not sure you can check this by getting a copy of her credit file. If her credit rating is poor, you can still set up a joint account and it should not have any implications for your personal credit rating at all. However it would need to be a basic account with no credit facilities. Basic accounts are widely available through most banks.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
James Falla
I have been advising people on how to solve their debt problems for over 20 years. During this time I have helped many people go bankrupt. I am an FCA Approved Person and the Managing Director of Wilmott Turner Financial Services (owner and operator of Bankruptcy Expert
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