What is the Cashminder Account?

The Cashminder account is a basic bank account offered by the Co-operative bank. It is the same bank account that Piggy obtained a couple of days after he was declared bankrupt.

A word of advice - Do not apply for your Cashminder account until after you have been declared bankrupt. Your account may be frozen if you do!

How should I apply for a Cashminder Account?

It is a very good idea to check your credit report before applying. The co-operative bank use Experian. If your credit report contains certain mistakes, as Piggy’s did, then you may be declined.

Tip - You can get your free experian credit report online.

Once you are happy that your credit report does not contain any errors, go to your local branch with proof of ID and proof of address. They will then help you to make an application. You may wish to make an appointment in advance.

Why check my Experian credit report?

Believe it or not there may be entries that look worse than bankruptcy! Examples include a gone away mark, which means you could not be contacted about your debt. Other mistakes include a wrong address and entries showing that you have incurred debts after your bankruptcy.

What facilities does the Cashminder account offer?

Through the Cashminder account you will be given a Visa Electron card.

You can receive your income, pay your bills and withdraw cash. You will be able to set up direct debits and standing orders. You will also receive regular statements.

There are no borrowing facilities with the Cashmider account.

Does the Cashminder Account Cost?

No, normal banking services are free. There are administration charges for some services such as extra copies of your statements. You can check these at the Cashminder internet page.

Where can I apply for the Co-op Cashminder?

You can apply for the Co-op Cashminder account at your nearest branch.

Why might I be declined?

You may be declined for the following reasons:

Help from Piggy
Piggy will shortly be launching a bankruptcy help service.

In the mean time, if you cannot find what you are looking for then try asking Piggy Bankrupt - Ask Piggy.
Bankruptcy Advice
Seeking advice is the most important step in dealing with debt. For a list of places offering free debt help visit the Advice section.
Avoid Bankruptcy

Through an IVA you may be able to avoid bankruptcy. Visit the IVA Centre

Piggy's Bankruptcy Journey
Visit Piggy's Bankruptcy Blog to read what bankruptcy was like for Piggy Bankrupt.

As featured in the Guardian newspaper this very honest account describes his experience.
Bankruptcy Links