Advise Please- UK Pension & Bangkok Bank

[ignis]

Posted in Topic UK PENSIONS but did not get a reply, so trying again in it own Topic

Anyone use Bangkok Bank for their UK State Pension

Has anyone phoned Newcastle ? or sent a recorded letter to Newcastle direct ?

Just asking if anyone has phoned direct to the International Pension Centre in Newcastle ? or mailed to Newcastle? Or is it automatically routed to Wolverhampton ? maybe they have more sense than at the call Centre in Wolverhampton.

I am Totally at a loss. ??

My Bank since 2002 is Bangkok Bank........ The branch I opened the account with is now a Apartment Block since 2006..

I have asked for my Pension to be paid into Bangkok Bank, the address is in London UK Branch.......

Yes got the account set up and received the unique Number, which has been sent many times to [DWP]……….. Many OAP's in Thailand I believe Bank with Bangkok Bank and receive their Pension via the London Branch, understand with NO problem, so why can I not have my Pension sent to the Bank that I banked with for the past 14 years ??

My Private pension goes this route with no problems..

Am I not understanding something ? or are they totally thick and incompetent ? is this something NEW ?

I am totally fed up with Wolverhampton call centre and the ?? that answer the phones there.. may just as well spend my time hitting my head on a brick wall for what good they do...

Problem: All payments have been returned by the Bank, as for some unknown reason they have changed the Reference Code on the BACS payment = the Bank automatically returns the payment.. yet 4 different people on the phone agree the payments have been returned...

Sent them a Recorded Air Mail letter yet again which was signed for in Wolverhampton on 3rd Feb, enclosed was full details from my Bank showing yet again the Account and Reference code, and what they had put on the BACS transfer.. yet appears to be beyond them to sort it out.. my last call last week was assured all was now fine, and someone would phone me back.......... NO one phoned back......

Have now sent them 7 Recorded Air Mail letters to Wolverhampton with Bank letters showing the incorrect details, have spoken on the phone 4x... Clearly shows on the letter from the Bank the Reference No: and the wrong number they [DWP] used, which is nothing like the correct one the Bank issued in June 2015. I have had other BACS payments no problem to this account. [private pension goes there no problem.]

Received yesterday…… after so many Emails. Recorded Mail + phone calls:

Dear Mr xxxxxx

Thank you for contacting Newcastle Pension Centre (International Group) with your email dated 11th February 2016.

We received your most recent correspondence on 9th February 2016. Looking at the details you sent, it appears you are asking us to pay your pension to an account in the UK, who in turn will forward that on to your account in Thailand using a reference number. This is known as Third Party banking and we cannot pay your UK State Pension this way. We have no way of including the particular reference number you are asking for in the transaction.

If you have your own personal bank account in the UK we can pay to that account or the pension will have to be paid direct to your account in Thailand in Thai Baht. we exchange via Citibank. If I have misunderstood your correspondence, I apologise. I will leave notes in your records in relation to this email and if you call again the agent you speak to should be able to understand the problem.

If you wish to provide us with further bank details we need to know:

• The bank's name and address

• The bank code

• The account number

• The name of the account holder

For the security and protection of your details we are unable to deal with your change via e-mail. You can provide the information either by contacting us on 0044 191 2187777, between the hours of 8am and 6pm (United Kingdom time), or you can write to us at:

The Pension Service 11, Mail Handling Site A, Wolverhampton. WV98 1LW. United Kingdom

WE CANNOT ACCEPT THIS INFORMATION VIA EMAIL

Twice on the phone to Wolverhampton have been told best to open a Citi Bank account in Thailand for your Pension + it is Free………. Why ? drive some 110km to visit a Bank ? again Why ? phoned in English and via a Thai friend in Thai Citi Bank NO it is NOT free unless you deposit a large sums + 200,000 baht needed to open an account and be kept in there at all times..!! What 3rd Party Banking are they talking about? 8 months and getting know-where

[lopburi3]

I am not aware of the UK domestic transfer system but for USA there are two numbers involved - one ABA is the routing to the bank and the second is your normal account number - both are always required for transfers - and the normal account number gets it into the correct branch in Thailand.

For US Bangkok Bank requires government payments be made into a special no ATM access account to prevent payment after your death (as they are responsible to US Government for payback if it happens). If the same for UK bank may return check rather than forward. Private pensions are not subject to this restriction.

An ABA number (also known as routing number or routing transfer number) is a sequence of nine numeric characters used by banks to identify specific financial institutions within the United States.

[topt]

OP I would ask a mod to move this to the banking section where hopefully someone who uses this system can help.

The process is outlined here for anybody else's interest. http://www.bangkokbank.com/BangkokBank/PersonalBanking/DailyBanking/TransferingFunds/TransferringIntoThailand/ReceivingFundsfromUK/Pages/ReceivingFundsfromUK.aspx

The issue seems to be the reference number but I don't understand why DWP say they cannot add that especially as you say they used a number but it was wrong..........?

[evadgib]

My pensions go into my UK a/c and are transferred online when needed.

HTH

[JohnC]

When I claimed my state pension I put my Pattaya Bangkok Bank details on the application, the International Pensions department at Newcastle opened an account with Citibank in my name and sent me the account details. They then paid my pension every fourth Thursday to Citibank and on the Friday it is in my Bangkok Bank in Pattaya. This has worked for four years with no problems and required no action from me other than completing the original application form with my Thai bank details.

Perhaps the OP should send his Thai Bank details to the International Pensions not the London Branch but his actual Bangkok Bank here in Thailand.

[sunnyjim5]

I think the OP is confused about the fact that the State Pension cannot be paid via the London branch of the Bangkok Bank.

He is also obviously misunderstanding what he has been told. He has no need to open a Citibank account but his payments will be routed via Citibank to his personal Thai account.

If he wishes the pension to be paid directly to his Thai account he must follow the instructions clearly provided by the Pension Centre.

[ignis]

When I claimed my state pension I put my Pattaya Bangkok Bank details on the application, the International Pensions department at Newcastle opened an account with Citibank in my name and sent me the account details. They then paid my pension every fourth Thursday to Citibank and on the Friday it is in my Bangkok Bank in Pattaya. This has worked for four years with no problems and required no action from me other than completing the original application form with my Thai bank details.

Perhaps the OP should send his Thai Bank details to the International Pensions not the London Branch but his actual Bangkok Bank here in Thailand.

Many thanks but if you don't mind my asking what is the charges having it paid direct into your Bank in Thailand ?

I looked into it all last year, as my Bank is Bangkok Bank, I asked in Bangkok Bank... very helpful + no charge... From Bangkok Web site: Regular payments from the UK or US

If you currently receive payments such as pensions, annuities or payroll from US or UK government agencies or private organizations, you can arrange for your payments to be directly deposited into your Bangkok Bank account in Thailand via the bank's New York orLondon branches.

I also have a Bank account here with SCB, but the 4 weekly charge to have my pension into that out was a lot..

[ignis]

I think the OP is confused about the fact that the State Pension cannot be paid via the London branch of the Bangkok Bank.

He is also obviously misunderstanding what he has been told. He has no need to open a Citibank account but his payments will be routed via Citibank to his personal Thai account.

If he wishes the pension to be paid directly to his Thai account he must follow the instructions clearly provided by the Pension Centre.

Yes very confused..

Misunderstanding re CitiBank. the Lady from Wolverhampton even phoned me over a month ago to give me the address and phone number in Bangkok of Citibank. !! saying it is paid free, on phoning myself + again with a help of a Thai [all in Thai] to Citibank is is not free unless you have 400,000 baht in the account and keep at least 200,000 baht in the account at all times. no idea where the Misunderstanding is.

even on the website it is very clear....... or I thought it was

How to receive payments from a UK-based state/private pension provider or company

If you currently receive UK-based payments such as a pension, annuity or salary, you can arrange for your payments to be directly deposited into your account at Bangkok Bank in Thailand via Bangkok Bank’s London branch.

suddenly after months the Bangkok Bank London has become a 3rd Party Bank ? so yes very confused

Yes the DWP want the Bank name and address in Thailand........ what address, the branch I opened the account in 14 years ago has long gone. I use whatever Bangkok bank I am close to at the time I need to use a bank [new card/new passbook] be it in the next Branch nearest to me or in a Supermarket/Shopping Mall.

[sunnyjim5]

I think the OP is confused about the fact that the State Pension cannot be paid via the London branch of the Bangkok Bank.

He is also obviously misunderstanding what he has been told. He has no need to open a Citibank account but his payments will be routed via Citibank to his personal Thai account.

If he wishes the pension to be paid directly to his Thai account he must follow the instructions clearly provided by the Pension Centre.

Yes very confused..

Misunderstanding re CitiBank. the Lady from Wolverhampton even phoned me over a month ago to give me the address and phone number in Bangkok of Citibank. !! saying it is paid free, on phoning myself + again with a help of a Thai [all in Thai] to Citibank is is not free unless you have 400,000 baht in the account and keep at least 200,000 baht in the account at all times. no idea where the Misunderstanding is.

even on the website it is very clear....... or I thought it was

How to receive payments from a UK-based state/private pension provider or company

If you currently receive UK-based payments such as a pension, annuity or salary, you can arrange for your payments to be directly deposited into your account at Bangkok Bank in Thailand via Bangkok Bank’s London branch.

suddenly after months the Bangkok Bank London has become a 3rd Party Bank ? so yes very confused

Yes the DWP want the Bank name and address in Thailand........ what address, the branch I opened the account in 14 years ago has long gone. I use whatever Bangkok bank I am close to at the time I need to use a bank [new card/new passbook] be it in the next Branch nearest to me or in a Supermarket/Shopping Mall.

Your Bangkok Bank account MUST be associated with a branch of the bank which will have a current address.

Why not ask ?

[ignis]

I think the OP is confused about the fact that the State Pension cannot be paid via the London branch of the Bangkok Bank.

He is also obviously misunderstanding what he has been told. He has no need to open a Citibank account but his payments will be routed via Citibank to his personal Thai account.

If he wishes the pension to be paid directly to his Thai account he must follow the instructions clearly provided by the Pension Centre.

Yes very confused..

Misunderstanding re CitiBank. the Lady from Wolverhampton even phoned me over a month ago to give me the address and phone number in Bangkok of Citibank. !! saying it is paid free, on phoning myself + again with a help of a Thai [all in Thai] to Citibank is is not free unless you have 400,000 baht in the account and keep at least 200,000 baht in the account at all times. no idea where the Misunderstanding is.

even on the website it is very clear....... or I thought it was

How to receive payments from a UK-based state/private pension provider or company

If you currently receive UK-based payments such as a pension, annuity or salary, you can arrange for your payments to be directly deposited into your account at Bangkok Bank in Thailand via Bangkok Bank’s London branch.

suddenly after months the Bangkok Bank London has become a 3rd Party Bank ? so yes very confused

Yes the DWP want the Bank name and address in Thailand........ what address, the branch I opened the account in 14 years ago has long gone. I use whatever Bangkok bank I am close to at the time I need to use a bank [new card/new passbook] be it in the next Branch nearest to me or in a Supermarket/Shopping Mall.

Your Bangkok Bank account MUST be associated with a branch of the bank which will have a current address.

Why not ask ?

Very good answer,

But have already tried that, The branch at Big C, say can use any address ?? when I told them what it was for they told me [show them letter from DWP Wolverhampton] to use the London UK branch, so not a lot of help..

DWP want my Bangkok Branch address so they say, Bangkok Bank say use there branch in London as 1.000 do to get there Pension this way [all clear on Bangkok website - clicking on Regular UK State Pensions.... its like hitting your head against a brick wall.. Bangkok Bank London has even phoned DWP to try to sort it out and help me, DWP will Not discuss anything to a 3rd party, but DWP will but only with me... and so the merry go around continues..

I was hoping someone could advise from ThaiVisa members was having there Pension paid into Bangkok Bank London Branch... Bangkok Bank say they have loads of Pension paid into the London Branch of British OAP's in Thailand, just hoping one or more could also be on ThaiVisa and advise me how they managed it or what I am doing wrong.

[JohnC]

"Many thanks but if you don't mind my asking what is the charges having it paid direct into your Bank in Thailand ?"

I did a comparison on another post some time ago and if I remember correctly the charges were something like .05% just checked my payment last Friday and I was given 51.14 baht to the pound, given the variable rates between banks of 51.08 to 51.15 I think I received a reasonable rate. I pay my utilities by DD so having my pension paid direct alleviates me trying to avoid transfer charges etc. This has worked for me for the past four years and I have used my BB debit card in the UK to access my account there.

[ignis]

"Many thanks but if you don't mind my asking what is the charges having it paid direct into your Bank in Thailand ?"

I did a comparison on another post some time ago and if I remember correctly the charges were something like .05% just checked my payment last Friday and I was given 51.14 baht to the pound, given the variable rates between banks of 51.08 to 51.15 I think I received a reasonable rate. I pay my utilities by DD so having my pension paid direct alleviates me trying to avoid transfer charges etc. This has worked for me for the past four years and I have used my BB debit card in the UK to access my account there.

Many thanks, will phone tomorrow and ask at my other Bangkok Bank Branch Rama 4 ? [next to HSBC] where I opened many years ago a Fixed rate account [uK Pension cannot be paid into this type of account] or so I am told. [don't want to use this as it is the money fixed for my Retirement Extensions every year]

the Bank I opened my normal saving account in 2002 was near the river under Rama 8 bridge, last time went that way 2006 appeared to be a new built Apartment block, live over 50 km from BKK, and never go that way.

[ignis]

Just out of interest........

I followed all this and was given the Unique Reference Number in June 2015.. Just noticed that the Unique Reference Number is my Bangkok Bank Account number in Thailand and sort code... [yet DWP so say cannot enter my Bank account number on payments ??] no wonder the Bank returned all the payments as they did not have my account number on them !!! what am I missing ?

How to receive payments from a UK-based state/private pension provider or company

If you currently receive UK-based payments such as a pension, annuity or salary, you can arrange for your payments to be directly deposited into your account at Bangkok Bank in Thailand via Bangkok Bank’s London branch.

How to apply

1. You will need to first register and obtain a unique reference number to send funds to Thailand via Bangkok Bank’s London branch. Registration can be made either in person or in writing with the following documentation and transaction details:
   • Copy of your passport – an original is preferred if visiting the London branch in person.
   • Proof of address – a recent utility bill or bank statement which bears your name and address. Original documentation will be returned upon completion of the funds transfer registration.
   • Copy of your Bangkok Bank passbook account – the account may be in your or another person’s name.
   • Details of the origin of funds – you will need to specify the name of the State/private pension provider or company where the funds originated.
   • Expected amount and frequency of funds transfers (single or recurring funds transfer) to Thailand.
     
2. The London branch will post a confirmation letter to you, including the unique reference number and registered bank details.
   
3. Provide the confirmation details to your state/private pension provider or company for them to process with each payment. Funds will be received in Thailand the next working day after the funds are received by Bangkok Bank in London.

For more information, please call Bangkok Bank London's Customer Service Department

[colinneil]

OP why not make things easy for yourself. Give DWP a Thai Bangkok bank branch, problem solved.

I get my state pension paid direct to my Thai bank account, no charges what so ever, good exchange rate.

Why on earth would you want your pension paid to bank in London then transferred to Thailand?

[lopburi3]

As you know last year Thailand required payments from UK must use a swift code. My LOS BKK bank never had one, I suppose they had to create one for all their branches. I assume all BKK bank branches have their own code now. If your branch has gone then perhaps the problem..

UK pensions use Citi bank (Ireland) to do the transactions at no cost to the recipient. Those who have it paid into a UK bank and then have it sent to LOS, or use a UK ATM card it costs....Those who don't "live" in LOS use this method..

If me I would find a near BKK bank and open or transfer you account base there, then let UK know the new swift code etc...

Sorry if I have got the OP probs story ass upwards... ...........

Bangkok Bank in Thailand has always had a SWIFT code - BKKBTHBK

That is the one and only code for all Bangkok Bank accounts in Thailand - the first 3 numbers of the account gets it to the correct branch office.

http://www.bangkokbank.com/BangkokBank/PersonalBanking/DailyBanking/TransferingFunds/TransferringIntoThailand/Pages/InwardFAQs.aspx

[sunnyjim5]

As you know last year Thailand required payments from UK must use a swift code. My LOS BKK bank never had one, I suppose they had to create one for all their branches. I assume all BKK bank branches have their own code now. If your branch has gone then perhaps the problem..

UK pensions use Citi bank (Ireland) to do the transactions at no cost to the recipient. Those who have it paid into a UK bank and then have it sent to LOS, or use a UK ATM card it costs....Those who don't "live" in LOS use this method..

If me I would find a near BKK bank and open or transfer you account base there, then let UK know the new swift code etc...

Sorry if I have got the OP probs story ass upwards... ...........

Bangkok Bank in Thailand has always had a SWIFT code - BKKBTHBK

That is the one and only code for all Bangkok Bank accounts in Thailand - the first 3 numbers of the account gets it to the correct branch office.

http://www.bangkokbank.com/BangkokBank/PersonalBanking/DailyBanking/TransferingFunds/TransferringIntoThailand/Pages/InwardFAQs.aspx

When I went to my BKK bank to set up the pension stuff the lady said we don't have a branch swift code, she just wrote down stuff to pass on. Whether her 'wording' was wrong I don't know, but that is what she said. I rang pensions and told them that, they said don't worry, just send us the details the branch gave you..

The BB swift code is noted at the top of the page in the link.

http://www.bangkokbank.com/BangkokBank/PersonalBanking/DailyBanking/TransferingFunds/TransferringIntoThailand/Pages/InwardFAQs.aspx

The one code relates to all BB branches/accounts. Differentiation is made by the accompanying account name and number.

[OJAS]

My pensions go into my UK a/c and are transferred online when needed.

HTH

Yes the OP needs to have a UK account into which DWP can pay his State Pension and from which he can subsequently transfer it to his Bangkok Bank account here in LOS via their London branch.

And not one with Bangkok Bank's London branch either, unfortunately, since they only do commercial, not personal, accounts.

[ignis]

OP why not make things easy for yourself. Give DWP a Thai Bangkok bank branch, problem solved.

I get my state pension paid direct to my Thai bank account, no charges what so ever, good exchange rate.

Why on earth would you want your pension paid to bank in London then transferred to Thailand?

Many thanks..... yes I phoned them yet again DWP Wolverhampton and gave my Branch details in Thailand in the afternoon 22nd February 2016 ...... the man read everything back so all details 100% correct, he also stated that the payments would be re-sent again in a couple of days...

waited and waited, nothing, phoned them DWP Wolverhampton yet again on the 7th March........ was assured that the payments had been sent on 26th February 2016, but to allow 10 days.. today is 14th [18 days after being so say sent.. maybe via carrier Pigeon ? did it die on the way ?] still nothing this morning..

Now the 3rd 4 weekly UK State Pension is due, and not received the 1st yet.

As a PS my Private pension is paid into London Branch via BACS, it is in my account in Thailand the same day.... Do others have to wait 10 - ? [so far 18 days] for there State Pension to arrive ??

I am still at a loss, and re-read there DWP website again this morning.. states:

Bank accounts your pension can be paid into

Your State Pension can be paid into:

a bank in the country you’re living in = gave them these details on 22nd Feb 2016

a bank or building society in the UK = Fine gave details September 2015, after checked with them DWP Wolverhampton in May 2015 !

You can use:

an account in your name = Yes is in my Name

a joint account

someone else’s account - if you have their permission and keep to the terms and conditions of the account

So this is totally wrong then ?

At a loss as to what to do next, keep waiting ? phone DWP Wolverhampton yet again [made at least 10 phone calls via mobile phone + so far 8 recorded Air Mail letter]..

My Pension Payment day is on a Friday every 4 weeks..

Please advise when do other receive there UK Pension ? how many days ?

Just used to dealing with Bangkok Bank London, the day money is paid in, is the day it appears in my account in Thailand.

[ignis]

Please advise, I am still at a loss, have I done or not done something ?

Still cannot see why I cannot get my UK State Pension via Bangkok Bank London Branch, [pension returned as they did not put my account number on the payment] loads of problem so say they cannot pay into a London Branch as is a 3rd Party Bank.... but changed that to give the Address here [still Bangkok Bank still the same account number opened the account in 2002] as a note: my Private pension goes this route Bangkok Bank London with no problems

Phoned them yet again yesterday.........I got the man on the line to read back what account number they have = 100% correct.. so say they sent Dec payment again to Thailand branch on 26 Feb + Jan payment on 1st March, both these payments have been returned ! they have sent Feb payment on the 11th March, so far Not in my account and not yet returned... There is 4 x 4 weekly payments now due..

Do I need to inform the Branch here ? My pension was set up via the London Branch, on 16 June 2015 with paperwork from Bangkok Bank which was sent to DWP Wolverhampton early September 2015. is that the problem ?

​Maybe the Bank branch here has no idea about my account ? is that possible ? the last time I went to the branch I opened the account with was in 2006, it was a empty plot with a Apartment block being built. the address I have used is what I have received from Bangkok Bank Help line. is that the reason of all my payments being returned ?

​The only other thing, but would it make a difference ? In Thailand my name is Christian and Surname only. as with everything middle names get missed out here, but the DWP Wolverhampton say they cannot change that and so payments will shown my name in full including middle names.

Did ask, I do still have an account in the UK with the Co-Op, but the man from DWP Wolverhampton said that account would not help.. why ? no idea.

So say they at DWP Wolverhampton are at a loss, me 100% at a loss and no idea what to do next. so if anyone can advise what to do next, or what I can try..

[ignis]

Your best option is to open another BKK account in LOS, pass the details on to Overseas pension folk.

The recipient has nothing to do with Citibank, they are UK Gov agents for the transfer.

Using this method costs you nothing in transfers or using your new BKK bank ATM card.

I have a middle name and no probs..

Many thanks

Wonder is SCB any good ? I do have a savings account with them for some years,

[never thought about them as set everything up with Bangkok Bank London Branch.]

[lopburi3]

My Bangkok Bank account has all 3 names with no issues (plus another two for wife). Staff may address you as first/middle but your surname is still there.

Edit: have seen many posts of issues when names did not exactly match for international transfers.

[sunnyjim5]

This could have been resolved easily if the OP would cease talking about the London branch of the Bangkok bank etc.

The DWP will pay the pension directly into a Thai Bank IF they are provided with the Bank name, address, account name, Swift code and account number

[ignis]

This could have been resolved easily if the OP would cease talking about the London branch of the Bangkok bank etc.

The DWP will pay the pension directly into a Thai Bank IF they are provided with the Bank name, address, account name, Swift code and account number

You make it sound so easy.. and maybe is for you ?

Myself gave them at DWP my Thai Bank + provided with the Bank name, address, account name, Swift code and account number over 2 months ago + 5 time by phone since + 8 times by recorded mail, to pay the pension directly into my Thai account... They have also sent my by mail conformation of the change of Bank detail, this letter is dated 26 January 2016. .......So say they have re-sent on 26th Feb + the next 4 weekly payment on 1st March, both have been returned, my 3rd payment was sent on the 11th March so far it is not in my account or has it been returned. These 3 payments have NOTHING to do with London Branch............ I said I get my PRIVATE Pension paid into London Branch = no problem ever since July 2015...

NOTE: My biggest point is what it says on DWP website + I phoned them at the call centre May 2015 to be 100% sure..Yes London Branch was fine...........

I went to Bangkok Bank and got the forms [is also on there Bangkok Bank website in English under Receiving UK State Pension] I filled all the forms in sent it to London Branch, this was set up, filled in signed and returned to me here in Thailand. then I sent this letter to DWP, this I did in September 2015.

16 ​November 2015 I received by mail from Newcastle: = the date I would be paid and acknowledgement of the Bangkok Bank London account...

​Payment day = got a email from London Branch, the payment was automatic returned.. emails to Bangkok Bank = they DWP had not put my account number on the payment.. [still have the signed by Bangkok Bank copy forwarded to me of the payment account from Newcastle they had entered 001001001001001001..... is that even an account ? well it is 100% NOT mine, nowhere is it on the Bank paperwork or entered in the Pension Pack I sent]

At the end of the day I am owed 4 lots of 4 weekly payments, have made over 3 hours of phone call via my mobile phone to UK + so far 8 recorded delivery Air Mail packs to receive nothing..! at my wits end to know how to go from here, there all daft at DWP Wolverhampton? give out wrong information or try to not understand and blame me for there mistakes

So at a loss as to how 'This could have been resolved easily'

[chiang mai]

As you know last year Thailand required payments from UK must use a swift code. My LOS BKK bank never had one, I suppose they had to create one for all their branches. I assume all BKK bank branches have their own code now. If your branch has gone then perhaps the problem..

UK pensions use Citi bank (Ireland) to do the transactions at no cost to the recipient. Those who have it paid into a UK bank and then have it sent to LOS, or use a UK ATM card it costs....Those who don't "live" in LOS use this method..

If me I would find a near BKK bank and open or transfer you account base there, then let UK know the new swift code etc...

Sorry if I have got the OP probs story ass upwards... ...........

There is a single SWIFT code for Bangkok Bank in Thailand, it doesn't vary by branch.

[chiang mai]

Um, I believe the OP can specify a BACS transfer to Bangkok Bank London using the account number he already has for his account in Thailand. As far as DWP is concerned they are making a transfer within the UK, DWP does not need to know anything about Thailand.

When Bangkok Bank receives the funds they will see the account number and credit the account in Thailand, they know it must be in Thailand because there are NO retail accounts at Bangkok Bank in the UK.

Without reading the thread again completely it seems as though the OP is trying to give DWP too much information, the name Bangkok Bank, their address in London, their BACS code and the OP's bank account number (in Thailand) is all that is required.

[shunter]

There is a simple way to deal with the matter.

Have your pension paid direct to your bank here in Thailand ,no charge although the receiving bank may charge a movement process fee my bank charges me a fee of 100 b. worth it as I am notified by S.M.S. whenever there is an A/C movement.

No doubt once your connection is established the monies owed will be paid to you.

To be brutally honest, I think that you have created this problem for yourself by the twisting road that you have chosen to take regarding your state pension payments,, the end end result being known as ''A mucking Fuddle..''

In my dealings with the overseas pension payment dept I have found them very helpful both by email and telephone and on the one occasion payments were delayed due to non receipt of mail here, after speaking on the phone and replying to the security questions the money owed was in my account here three days later.

The phone calls from Thailand run at around 18 B a minute if you use the 005 or a similar service offered by A.I.S. and other local telecommunication services, also the overseas pension office office will call you back and update you as to progress.

Politeness always works too..

[ignis]

Um, I believe the OP can specify a BACS transfer to Bangkok Bank London using the account number he already has for his account in Thailand. As far as DWP is concerned they are making a transfer within the UK, DWP does not need to know anything about Thailand.

When Bangkok Bank receives the funds they will see the account number and credit the account in Thailand, they know it must be in Thailand because there are NO retail accounts at Bangkok Bank in the UK.

Without reading the thread again completely it seems as though the OP is trying to give DWP too much information, the name Bangkok Bank, their address in London, their BACS code and the OP's bank account number (in Thailand) is all that is required.

Yes Correct and this is what I did, the Bangkok Bank London branch sent the letter to me to give/send to DWP. the Account Number on this is my account in Thailand + PEN [= what it is - Pension] + another few letters = what branch of Bangkok Bank.......... Yes a BACS payment was sent, only they DWP put 001001001001001001 NOT my account number... Yes DWP accepted Bangkok Bank London and informed me of this on 16th November 2015.

So you would think it was easy and simple error on there part............. Not so they wanted proof it was there error, no you cannot send it by email, so sent Recorded Air Mail.... then started all 'this is a 3rd party bank' nonsense..... and would then only accept my branch account address in Thailand and send it via Swift.... this new way to get my Pension was confirmed in writing dated 26th January 2016. since then it is letters and phone calls every week.. its like hitting ones head against something totally thick and getting nowhere

[chiang mai]

Um, I believe the OP can specify a BACS transfer to Bangkok Bank London using the account number he already has for his account in Thailand. As far as DWP is concerned they are making a transfer within the UK, DWP does not need to know anything about Thailand.

When Bangkok Bank receives the funds they will see the account number and credit the account in Thailand, they know it must be in Thailand because there are NO retail accounts at Bangkok Bank in the UK.

Without reading the thread again completely it seems as though the OP is trying to give DWP too much information, the name Bangkok Bank, their address in London, their BACS code and the OP's bank account number (in Thailand) is all that is required.

Yes Correct and this is what I did, the Bangkok Bank London branch sent the letter to me to give/send to DWP. the Account Number on this is my account in Thailand + PEN [= what it is - Pension] + another few letters = what branch of Bangkok Bank.......... Yes a BACS payment was sent, only they DWP put 001001001001001001 NOT my account number... Yes DWP accepted Bangkok Bank London and informed me of this on 16th November 2015.

So you would think it was easy and simple error on there part............. Not so they wanted proof it was there error, no you cannot send it by email, so sent Recorded Air Mail.... then started all 'this is a 3rd party bank' nonsense..... and would then only accept my branch account address in Thailand and send it via Swift.... this new way to get my Pension was confirmed in writing dated 26th January 2016. since then it is letters and phone calls every week.. its like hitting ones head against something totally thick and getting nowhere

I think the problem may be that DWP knows your account number at BB is not in the UK because of its length, it needs to be an 8 digit account number plus a 6 digit sort code, how long is your BB account number and did you give them a sort code?

EDIT: I just checked, your BB Thailand account number is 10 digits hence DWP knows/thinks it's a third party bank.

[ignis]

Um, I believe the OP can specify a BACS transfer to Bangkok Bank London using the account number he already has for his account in Thailand. As far as DWP is concerned they are making a transfer within the UK, DWP does not need to know anything about Thailand.

When Bangkok Bank receives the funds they will see the account number and credit the account in Thailand, they know it must be in Thailand because there are NO retail accounts at Bangkok Bank in the UK.

Without reading the thread again completely it seems as though the OP is trying to give DWP too much information, the name Bangkok Bank, their address in London, their BACS code and the OP's bank account number (in Thailand) is all that is required.

Yes Correct and this is what I did, the Bangkok Bank London branch sent the letter to me to give/send to DWP. the Account Number on this is my account in Thailand + PEN [= what it is - Pension] + another few letters = what branch of Bangkok Bank.......... Yes a BACS payment was sent, only they DWP put 001001001001001001 NOT my account number... Yes DWP accepted Bangkok Bank London and informed me of this on 16th November 2015.

So you would think it was easy and simple error on there part............. Not so they wanted proof it was there error, no you cannot send it by email, so sent Recorded Air Mail.... then started all 'this is a 3rd party bank' nonsense..... and would then only accept my branch account address in Thailand and send it via Swift.... this new way to get my Pension was confirmed in writing dated 26th January 2016. since then it is letters and phone calls every week.. its like hitting ones head against something totally thick and getting nowhere

I think the problem may be that DWP knows your account number at BB is not in the UK because of its length, it needs to be an 8 digit account number plus a 6 digit sort code, how long is your BB account number and did you give them a sort code?

EDIT: I just checked, your BB Thailand account number is 10 digits hence DWP knows/thinks it's a third party bank.

Yes, but they had the original Bangkok Bank Headed Letter, in with the pension Pack, so if they know this is wrong why did DWP accepted Bangkok Bank London and informed me of this on 16th November 2015.?

All this London Branch is old news, as they DWP have my Thailand Bank address for over 2 months + many times.

[chiang mai]

Um, I believe the OP can specify a BACS transfer to Bangkok Bank London using the account number he already has for his account in Thailand. As far as DWP is concerned they are making a transfer within the UK, DWP does not need to know anything about Thailand.

When Bangkok Bank receives the funds they will see the account number and credit the account in Thailand, they know it must be in Thailand because there are NO retail accounts at Bangkok Bank in the UK.

Without reading the thread again completely it seems as though the OP is trying to give DWP too much information, the name Bangkok Bank, their address in London, their BACS code and the OP's bank account number (in Thailand) is all that is required.

Yes Correct and this is what I did, the Bangkok Bank London branch sent the letter to me to give/send to DWP. the Account Number on this is my account in Thailand + PEN [= what it is - Pension] + another few letters = what branch of Bangkok Bank.......... Yes a BACS payment was sent, only they DWP put 001001001001001001 NOT my account number... Yes DWP accepted Bangkok Bank London and informed me of this on 16th November 2015.

So you would think it was easy and simple error on there part............. Not so they wanted proof it was there error, no you cannot send it by email, so sent Recorded Air Mail.... then started all 'this is a 3rd party bank' nonsense..... and would then only accept my branch account address in Thailand and send it via Swift.... this new way to get my Pension was confirmed in writing dated 26th January 2016. since then it is letters and phone calls every week.. its like hitting ones head against something totally thick and getting nowhere

I think the problem may be that DWP knows your account number at BB is not in the UK because of its length, it needs to be an 8 digit account number plus a 6 digit sort code, how long is your BB account number and did you give them a sort code?

EDIT: I just checked, your BB Thailand account number is 10 digits hence DWP knows/thinks it's a third party bank.

Yes, but they had the original Bangkok Bank Headed Letter, in with the pension Pack, so if they know this is wrong why did DWP accepted Bangkok Bank London and informed me of this on 16th November 2015.?

All this London Branch is old news, as they DWP have my Thailand Bank address for over 2 months + many times.

I'm guessing but it looks like they took your details initially thinking that the account was at Bangkok Bank London, only later did someone spot the fact that the account number was not in the UK and this was corroborated by you having an address in Thailand. The long and the short seems to be that DWP no longer allows third party bank accounts, I know that BB London is still BB and it should be irrelevant that they do an internal transfer to get your pension into your account in Thailand. But it does sound as though DWP is tightening up on things, as such I dout there is much you can do other than to ask them to transfer direct to Thailand or to deposit to a UK account.