Overdraft for benefit claimant

[benny1964]

Hi - Has anyone heard anything so irresponsible as NatWest bank allowing a benefit claimant to amass an overdraft of £700 after they were told not to let him have one? Can this be right and is there any way of getting the debt written off?

[sara3]

are they also then responsible for someone on a minimum wage going into debt? or an alcoholic? or me, when I overspend at Christmas?

an account holder is an adult who has to take responsibility for their actions.

[benny1964]

Of course, I'm not that naiive. For reasons I won't go into this person isn't mentally capable of managing themselves which is why the bank was instructed not to allow an overdarft. My point was they have ignored a written instruction and allowed him to go overdrawn. Any helpful advice appreciated.

[sara3]

if this person is mentally incapable of managing their money they should have an appointee for their benefits. the benefits are then paid into someone else's account, who then takes responsibility for the benefit claim and can help them manage financially.