OFT Bank charges - Financial Hardship Criteria

[danroll]

My claim for unfair bank charges has been on hold for the last two years, as have everyone\'s. I have been told that you can get your charges back if you are experiencing financial hardship?

So far, i haven\'t missed any payments with bills, mortgage etc but after they are out the way we\'re left with very little. I am wondering if i fit the criteria for financial hardship?

We\'re in the depths of the overdraft, with a payment plan in place to reduce one of them and are making the minimum payment on a couple of store cards just to keep them happy. but i\'d say we are really struggling to get through the week on what we have left.

can anyone advise please?

[katekoala]

Hi
I work in a bank and my speciality is dealing with cases like yours - you will be unable to claim back bank charges whilst being in financial hardship unless you have proven so. It is not accaptable to ask a bank to do so if you have never advised of such previously.

however, despite the above, banks are different and willing to assist differently.

the first thing you need to ensure is that you have sent all your financial details to your creditors, keep copies & dates sent. Allow a decent amount of time, as banks are absolutely inundated with people claiming back for all sorts. When you do a financial statment, make sure it is realistic for you to live on, dont under budget in an attempt to satidfy your creditors.

Please be aware that they may default you (this happens, nothing you can do) but dont worry as when dect default youir fees & interest will stop and there is the possibilty that they can accept very low payments, lower than your creditrs can.

The last thins I would say - is what ever you do - DO NOT pay any company who tells you they can write off a debt, get back all your charges, or any other rubbish that is based on you giving them an upfront fee !!!!!!!

Speak to the CAB, CCCS or payplan, non fee charging companies that your creditors pay for, so that they can help you !
Hope that helps
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