Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Why should I sign up to Account Closed?

You’ll be joining a community that wishes to fundamentally change the financial system in this country, by taking power and control away from unaccountable financial institutions and giving it back to the people, whether that is by keeping bank branches open or ensuring a bill is passed to give everyone a legal right to a bank account.

Who do you help?

Through our various campaigns, we help those directly affected by the issues we highlight, such as debanking, bank branches being closed and an increasingly cashless society

How can you help me?
We offer support to those affected by bank closures, debanking and an increasingly cashless society. Our resources can guide you in understanding your rights and navigating these challenges. We can connect you with advocacy campaigns and provide a platform for sharing your experiences. We aim to help individuals and businesses maintain access to essential banking services and advocate for fair financial practices.
I have a story that I think you will be interested in, what should I do?

To send us individual stories that you believe deserve significant attention, please use the contact form here.

How can I get involved?

By signing up to Account Closed you will be kept up to date with all of our campaigns. We may in the future hold events or bring in volunteers, by signing up you will be the first to find out.

Debanking

What is debanking?

A practice where financial institutions, often influenced by political pressures or misguided regulatory policies, unfairly cut off individuals or businesses from essential financial services. This can be seen as an overreach, infringing upon the freedoms and rights of those who may hold unpopular or non-mainstream views, thereby threatening the principles of free speech and free market operations.

I have been debanked, what should I do?

We appreciate this can be a stressful and tiring experience. We have documented various steps you can take here. Please register an account with us to access.

Don't Kill Cash

Why is a cashless society and what will the effects be?
A cashless society is one where financial transactions are conducted electronically, using digital payments, cards, and online transfers, rather than using physical cash like coins and banknotes.
 
A move towards a cashless society can have varied impacts on different members of our population. While many find it convenient, it can pose challenges for the elderly, unbanked, and those not comfortable with digital technology, potentially leading to financial exclusion.
 
A cashless society could lead to increased control over individuals’ financial activities.  Potentially banks, and by extension governments, could monitor and regulate how people spend their money. This impedes citizens’ privacy also, when every transaction is recorded people lose their anonymity. 
 
A cashless society would increase dependence on banks and financial institutions which could become more problematic in a society where cash is not an alternative and banks are engaging in debanking or denying banking services. 
My local shop has started to only accept card, what can I do?

We fundamentally support the right for cash to remain in use. Please click here to find out how you can bring awareness and attempt to reverse this change.

Branch Closed

Why are banks closing branches and what are the implications?
The closing of bank branches across the country refers to the trend of financial institutions shutting down their physical locations. This trend is largely driven by the shift towards digital banking services and the desire of banks to reduce operational costs. Here’s how it affects people and the broader implications:Impact on Customers: The closure of bank branches can significantly impact certain demographics, particularly the elderly, those not tech-savvy, and people in rural areas where digital infrastructure might be lacking. These groups often rely on physical branches for banking services and may face challenges adapting to online or mobile banking.Economic Implications: In rural and less affluent communities, bank branch closures can have a broader economic impact. Local businesses might struggle with the lack of physical banking services, which can affect their operations, especially in areas with poor internet connectivity or transactions requiring in-person dealings.Access to Financial Services: Physical bank branches often provide more than just transactional services; they offer financial advice, customer service, and a point of human interaction that can’t be fully replicated online. Their closure can lead to a ‘banking desert’, where access to financial services and advice is significantly diminished.Potential for Financial Exclusion: There’s a risk of financial exclusion for certain groups who might find it harder to access digital banking services. This includes not only the elderly and rural populations but also those who might not have the necessary technological devices or digital literacy.
My business's bank account has been closed, what can I do?

In this case, a subject access request may not be applicable as a SAR can only be requested by an individual or a third party on behalf of an individual. A limited company cannot request a SAR. However, a SAR can be submitted in the name of a director who can ask for relevant information held.

Have a Question?

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Have you been a victim of debanking? Tell us your story and we will share it to our community.