I already have a savings account and current account with HSBC and just want to open a new savings with a better interest rate.
It's an online only account so trying apply through the app. But it's rejecting and says 'we do not hold up to date Tax Residency information.'.
On line chat says that you can get this from'your government'.
Surely since I have multiple accounts they must have that info, but they're quite insistent. So is the agent just fobbing off
Do I really need to apply to the government and get a certificate?
Just for the record it's a UK bank account and I am and have always been a UK citizen.
I've had multiple bank accounts, mortgages and jobs but never had to provide residency proof beyond a NI or passport number.
Just for the record it’s a UK bank account and I am and have always been a UK citizen.
Yes, but do you actually live in the UK?
Yep. Never lived anywhere else.
Weird. You're not on a foreign VPN? i.e. HSBC think you are trying to open a UK from outside the UK cos of your IP address?
If not, sounds like you need to walk into the nearest local branch or pick up the phone and talk to someone.
The anti money laundering regs are a pain in the arse....
The other thing to do is ask them specifically which form from HMRC do they want. Then Google that form for more info...
You might even be able to just phone them and explain. My daughter who is at uni in the UK at the moment was having hassle with that and I think she just called to sort it. Iirc it was a new banking requirement to check rather than being about you in particular
Thanks. I'll give them a call today and talk to an agent. I wasn't on a VPN just using the phone on the home WiFi.
Failing that I'll go into a branch at the weekend for the first time in about 15 years 😊
A savings account with a good interest rate. Does that exist ?
No, just one with a better rate than I'm on at the moment, and supposedly 5 min to open an account so a no brainer. Or so I thought
Weird. You’re not on a foreign VPN? i.e. HSBC think you are trying to open a UK from outside the UK cos of your IP address?
Anyone anywhere could be on a VPN so from the bank's point of view an IP address doesn't really mean anything.
Wife just opened a new account/savings bond and had to jump through hoops. All money laundering regulations I think but it feels crazy when you are trying to give money to them.
Quick call to the service desk sorted it out. Didn't need to provide any further information in the end. They just asked about my residency status and updated the records.