Basic Payment Accounts Introduced

[Lightning]

Under EU law, EU banks now need to offer Basic Payment Accounts to the 'under banked'.

These accounts are suitable for someone who cannot open a current account or someone on a low or no income.

These account provide basic payment services but no overdrafts and no cheques. Banking is free for at least 12 months post account opening.

Today, most banks added details on their website as to how these accounts will work.

The PTSB detail is here.
The AIB detail is here.
The KBC detail is [broken link removed].
The Ulster Bank detail is here.
(EBS and BoI seem to have not yet added details to their websites).

 

[Lightning]

It is worth pointing out that Basic Payment Accounts can be opened by anyone who is EU resident. You do not need to be Irish resident.

This might be handy for someone who wants to relocate to Ireland from another EU country and wants banking access from day 1.

Also, Irish residents can open Basic Payment Accounts in other EU countries.

 

[theresa1]

http://www.connexionfrance.com/UK-o...ts-Regulation-2015-EU-18464-view-article.html

The Bank's still have too much say in regards to this. Leaving aside the U.K. & Gibraltar leaving the E.U. it could be easier for a French person to get a basic payment account in the U.K. rather than the Rep of Ireland.

All countries in E.U. should be the same.

 

[lff12]

I used one of these in the UK 15 years ago - it was handy at the time, as I was exceedingly poor. When I went back to Ireland I was absolutely gouged on charges for little more service. I think its a wonderful idea, especially for those on modest incomes who might not have heavy banking needs.