Money Advice Direct
FREEPHONE 0800 074 6918
We receive a lot of calls and emails from the public asking; "Can I still have a bank account with an IVA?".
f you are in an IVA then you can still a bank account. Most people in IVAs use bank accounts called "basic bank account".
If you are considering an IVA then we advise opening up a new basic bank account with an creditor you are not in debt with or one who is not on your IVA creditors list.
When you are in an IVA you are not supposed to incur further debt or apply for credit. A basic bank account for someone with an IVA is one which just offers basic banking facilities with no overdraft facility or other type of lending facility.
Basic bank accounts allow you to pay in your wages, benefits, tax credits and state pension. They give you a cash card to withdraw your money and some offer standing orders and direct debits. Unlike normal bank accounts, they do not give you a cheque book or overdraft facility.
Basic bank accounts also appeal to people who are worried about over spending, as they do not give you an overdraft. Therefore, you can only spend what is available in your account. However, you still need to keep an eye on your account balance if you have standing orders or direct debits set up. If there is not enough money in your account to pay these, they will be rejected and you will be charged.
Basic bank accounts were set up through a government scheme to help poorer families and those who have problems opening a normal bank account. The scheme is aimed at everyone access to banking facilities.
PLEASE NOTE:
You are not instructed further credit whilst you are in an IVA because you are working to a strict budget. You are free to apply for credit or a normal bank account with an overdraft after your IVA is completed.
If you wish to discuss whether you can still have a bank account with an IVA and understand how it can help you please complete the following form or telephone freephone 0800 074 6918.