A couple of years ago my natwest account was closed, UK, I

Hello, I am happy to help with your enquiry today.

In most cases, if your bank thinks you've been the victim of identity theft, it may close your account to prevent further fraudulent activity.

However, NatWest shouldn’t close your account because of unfair bias or unlawful discrimination. And they shouldn’t usually close an account without giving reasonable notice.

In this case, you can make moves to avoid having your bank close your account. Among them are:

• You should regularly check your balance, especially before making a big payment or writing a sizable check. You can do this online, via a mobile app, or over the phone.
• Use your account, even infrequently, so it doesn’t go dormant.
• You should sign up for text or email letters that inform you when your balance dips below a certain amount.
• You should find out when money that’s been deposited will actually be available. Banks sometimes put a hold on deposits, meaning the money isn’t available as soon as it hits your account.
• You should not make any payments unless there’s enough money in your account to cover them.
• You should keep track of when automatic withdrawals are made, such as rent and utility payments.
• You should switch to an account that doesn’t allow overdrafts to curb overspending.
• Link accounts so that, if the balance in one drops substantially, money can easily be transferred into it from another account.

Is there anything else I can help with today?

Since you have written to the Financial Ombudsman, what was their decision/conclusion, please?

I understand you have received an offer of a call however you can choose whether to accept it or not. I am happy to continue here on the online chat function.

I understand. May I ask what is your ideal outcome to the situation?

Yes, you can certainly apply to have a bank account again. You should just need to take note of all of my advise above - during my initial response.

I see. Normally, you won't be able to create a bank account if you're bankrupt or have a history of fraud. If you have a bad credit rating, you may also be refused permission to create a current account.

However, you might be able to open a basic bank account if you're bankrupt or have a bad credit rating. If you have a basic bank account you usually:

• don't have to have any money to put in the account to open it
• don't have to pay any fees
• can pay your wages, salary, benefits, and tax credits directly into the account
• can pay in cheques and cash
• can pay bills by direct debit
• can withdraw money from cash machines.

You could also contact Money Helper. Money Helper is a free, independent service. You can contact them here: Money Guidance