Can I keep my UK bank account?

[1k1please 2]

Hi all, not sure if you are fimiliar with this BUT,

I am now officially state-side... apartment, utility bills, BofA bank account, work authorization, travel authorization, etc. I still have a UK Halifax bank account that I use (linked to the residence that my parents are still at in the UK) and I use it often due to using my Paypal account with it but just absorb the fees when withdrawing dollars from it here in the US. I have an overdraft on tht account that I use sometimes too. Just wondered if anyone knows if it is strictly allowed to have a UK bank account still whilst living in the US? They haven't said anything to me yet and obviosuly can see all my transactions are US based so just wanted to know what people think? And if anyone is in the same boat?

Thanks!

Edited April 14, 2015 by 1k1please

[Yanirose 64]

Hey,

Don't worry!! As long as you're not in debt.

You can also change the address to the US address you're allowed to have a UK bank account even if you live abroad.

Just make sure your account is activate here and there because sometimes they can inhibit your account meaning it's dormant account (Noone is using it) and to reopen it you've to come back to the UK to your nearest Halifax branch with identifications.

In terms of your overdraft thats an agreement limit you have with the bank so you're good to use it, like I said make sure there's an income coming in to the account as ODF(Overdraft facility) gets reviewed anually and they might take it away from you if there's no income coming in.

Ps. you dont have income coming into the account if you just want it open. Just make sure there's money in there even if it's a £1 and keep it activate every once a month.

Source:

I work in a bank myself lol

Edited April 14, 2015 by Yanirose

[ChicagoSarah 127]

Sure! You'll have to be sure to report those assets on your taxes that you file annually in the US (you won't be taxed on them, they just want to keep a check on things like laundering money I believe).

[1k1please 2]

Great! Thanks a lot for all your info folks, much appreciated.