So I went to my usual agent (in Pattaya) to check if the cost and procedure was the same as last year and they said that due to "new immigration boss" only Bangkok Bank accounts could be used if I went the "no 800k in the bank" route. Shew also said BB charge 5500 Baht if I didn't have a letter from Immigration. Stupidly enough I didn't ask if it was the residence certificate she referred to.
Anyone know if that is the case and if opening a BB account is a straight forward affair? I'm living here on a Non-O with a retirement extension and am married and in possession of a yellow house book.