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How to close a UK bank account?

 

UK bank cards have a validity period, which means they expire and become unusable after a certain time. To close a UK bank account, follow these steps:

 

A few months before the expiration of your bank card, contact your bank either by phone or through online banking customer service to request a new card. The bank will send you a new card by mail, and the password for the card may change. Refer to the instructions provided in the bank's letter.

 

To close a UK bank account, inform the bank that you want to close all your accounts associated with your name or specify the specific account(s) you wish to close (e.g., savings, debit, online, or credit account). If you plan to return to your home country after graduation and don't intend to use the account for an extended period, it is advisable to close the account entirely. Different banks may have additional service fees for account closure.

 

Some banks require the account holder to visit a branch in person with identification documents and the bank card to close the account. However, some banks allow remote account closure through phone calls or contacting customer service on their official website. The specific process may vary depending on the bank, so it's best to inquire directly with the bank. For example, my bank, Natwest, allows remote closure.

 

Important considerations before closing a UK bank account:

 

Contact your bank via phone, official website, mobile banking customer service, or visit a branch to inquire about the account closure process. Ask about any associated fees, documents required, appointment requirements, and the timeline for closure.

 

Once you have the necessary information, withdraw any remaining balance in the account and settle any outstanding debts.

 

Unlink any automatic payment accounts associated with the bank account, such as utility bills, online subscriptions, or gym fees.

 

Note: If the expiration date of your bank card is approaching, it doesn't mean your bank account will be closed automatically. The card will expire, but your bank account will remain active. However, you won't be able to use the bank account for transactions or online payments. The bank will still send you a new card and password to the address you provided when you initially opened the account. Therefore, even if your bank card expires, you should choose to close the bank account.

 

If you want to continue using a bank card, it's recommended to start the process of obtaining a new card by contacting the bank or their customer service three months in advance. Keep in mind that the process might be slow, especially during high-demand periods such as September to October. The bank typically uses regular postal service for card delivery, and you won't receive a tracking number. So, apply in advance and wait patiently for the letter.

 

Regarding your specific question about receiving a cheque from the bank after the account closure, but not being able to deposit it due to visa limitations, one possible solution is to open an account with Santander. When opening the account, present the cheque from Lloyds to the Santander staff and ask them to help you deposit it. However, keep in mind that this solution may depend on the specific policies and procedures of the banks involved. It's recommended to consult with the bank representatives for guidance.

 

Remember to withdraw any remaining balance and settle all financial matters before closing the account.