Help!

[CodStewart]

It's proving difficult to get a credit card from the high street banks in the UK.[I am not a resident and haven't been a resident for donkeys years] Do I just rely upon a crappy debit 'cirrus' card for this adventure across the S Pacific or is there an alternative way for me to rest assured that I shall always be able to access my money wherever the winds take me? Red tape! Pah! /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif

 

[Conachair]

I opened an offshore Lloyds account when I was in ST Helier, Jersey. I used my parents address in UK as contact address though, but they were aware that I didn't live there (and quite envious!). Cost 90 euros per year for a Euro account and a dollar account and I found them very pleasnent and helpful. Internet and phone banking. They even paid for a taxi for me to go back to boat to get some paperwork. Haven't got it up and running yet but should be cheaper way of getting cash abroad, from memory in europe credit card transactions are free and is a small charge for cashpoint, but less than uk banks. Also has the advantage of keeping any earnings outside of UK and therefore tax free. Phone no is 01534 284898. Good luck.

 

[CodStewart]

Thanks, Conachair - will call today.
Much appreciated.

 

[roly_voya]

My experience is that Uk credit card companies wont touch anyone not on the electoral register because they can't do a credit search. If you also dont have a post code you get classed as homeless so you credit rating is zero although I have got round this when in a marina by giving there post code as an address which dosn't seam to bother people. But basically if you dont have one before you set out its to late and you will have to use a sock under the bunk!

 

[FullCircle]

One of the most recommended accounts is the Nationwide Flex Account, although have you tried a charge account (expensive I know) like American Express?
It may also be worth registering a UK address to build up a non existent credit 'history'. Any friends or relatives that can help out?

Lynn's daughter came to live with us, and she had half a dozen cards in weeks, with no history at our address (or any other, gulp!)before.

 

[ColdFusion]

Sent PM.

Bill

 

[Phoenix of Hamble]

Lots of recommendations to avoid Amex.... too common for it to not be accepted..... only real global options are to find a way of getting a Visa or Mastercard credit card....