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James

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Review of the Starling Bank, Business Account:

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Business banking exceeding expectations

(Let me start by saying that this review relates to an account for a small Limited Company. I know that the process and rules are different for sole traders.) When I started my Ltd Co in May 2018 I needed a business account but had a bad credit history, so my choices were limited. I ended up with a provider I found slow, limited and expensive. So in August 2020 I decided to shop around. My criteria for my new bank were: • free banking • good reviews • full bank status • sustainable (profitable and stable) • business debit card (accepted as such, not flagged as a prepaid card) • integrations in place with my accountant's systems • able to deposit cheques occasionally with reasonable clearing time (days) • rapid transactions (credits to appear within minutes) • ideally, a reasonable ethical policy I got a shortlist from my accountant and set about researching the other criteria. Prior to this, I'd never heard of Starling, but it appeared to pqp asmeet all my criteria. Having installed the mobile "app", I set about applying for a Starling business account. This was a process clearly designed for online, covering identity checks for both me and my company. This all worked smoothly, being integrated with Companies House and credit reference agencies. Identification included having to speak on video as well as submitting my passport. The criteria also included checks on the nature of my business. My account was opened smoothly within a couple of days. What's my verdict seven months down the line? I have been extremely satisfied with my Starling business bank account. Everything has worked as it should. In addition to all the bullet points above, I've been pleased with advance notice of direct debit payments coming out, automatic recognition of recurring debit card payments, the facility to selectively enable or block online or in-person debit card transactions, and "spaces" to set aside money for liabilities such as VAT, Corporation Tax, wages etc. There's been only one occasion when I've needed to contact customer services (an account name spelling issue - incorrect use of capital letters) and this was resolved efficiently and courteously via the online chat in the mobile app. I was so satisfied that I have since switched my personal banking to Starling also. Reviewed on: 18th April 2021

Review of the Zopa, Personal loan:

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A very efficient loan experience

I needed a loan to meet a tax bill I'd forgotten to set money aside for. Whilst my money situation is ok these days, I was concerned that I may have difficulty getting a loan due to being self employed and having past bad debts. Zopa correctly assessed my situation and was able to help, and without excessively high interest. The whole process was very quick and efficient, I'm able to maintain my account online and choose the optimal repayment date of the month. Can't ask for better. Reviewed on: 17th April 2021

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