I've probably ripped off a lot of people here
Nearly 2 years ago I needed a second job to pay off a massive credit card bill. Hooked up with a high street bank call centre, thinking it was a bog standard customer service type thing. Turned out that the voluntary sales targets were in fact enforced brutally by the line managers. So, to all those people I arranged callbacks for 'customer reviews' 'a little chat to see if we can help with your overdraft' and 'a quick check to see if we can save you some money on your banking' I offer my heartfelt apologies. Needless to say you got sweet talked into parting with money that would be better spent on beer. As my way of apology here's what not to do:
Don't ever, ever, ever let anyone talk you into arranging a customer review unless you're actually on the lookout for a loan/savings account/credit card.

If your overdraft is less than £2k then don't get a consoladation loan. Do what I did and earn more money to pay it off at your leisure. A loan will cost you more.

Beware of accounts that charge a monthly fee. You will probably never need to use the extras.

If you have direct debits then make sure there is enough money to cover it at least 1 working day BEFORE it is paid out. This does NOT include Saturdays, even if the banks are open. So if the direct debit is due on Monday then make sure there are enough funds on Friday if you don't want a charge.

Speaking of direct debits, DON'T set them up unless you are a complete dozy twat who cannot remember to pay bills, or unless you are not given any choice. Direct debits are the biggest pain in the arse, and even if you cancel it the company can set it up again without telling you. And they can debit your account any time they like, so if you have a dispute with them they can empty your account and rack up charges for other unpaid bills. It's not easy getting the money back via the bank, and those charges have to be reclaimed from the company.

Use internet banking or push-button telephone banking and avoid speaking to anyone. That way they can't do the friendly chatty thing that suddenly ends up with them putting you through to sales because of your new baby or forthcoming house move.

For fucks sake don't ever rely on one form of payment when you go abroad (or even out on Friday night to tell the truth). Have both your cashcard and your credit card, or cash and something else. Unless you're paying for a premium banking service (£50k and above paid in per year) then there's fuck all anyone can do to help you when the cash machine swallows your card.
(bonjelafiend, Sat 17 Feb 2007, 21:50, Reply)