By If you’re self-isolating, getting hold of cash may not be easy. This may mean that if you're not set up for digital banking, it's difficult to pay people you owe money to, such as someone who has bought your groceries for you.
The good news is you can now access cash by asking a friend, neighbour or family member to withdraw it for you - without revealing any personal details such as your pin or even giving your debit card to them - through the Post Office.
The Post Office has made its ask-a-friend access to cash scheme available to all banks, building societies and credit unions, meaning you can get hold of cash easily no matter where you bank.
Here’s what you need to know...
How does the scheme work?
The scheme - known as the Payout Now scheme - is run by the Post Office and allows someone to collect cash for you. Since the increase in Covid-19 cases the Post Office has extended the scheme to include all banks, building societies and credit unions.
Call your bank or building society to see if they're part of the scheme, then simply let them know the amount you want to be collected and give the details of the person collecting the cash.
Your nominated person is then sent a one-time-use barcode on their phone, email or by post to exchange for cash. They will have to take ID with them and can collect the money from any local Post Office branch.
Is there any other way to access cash if I can't get out?
There’s also the Fast PACE service, which allows someone to exchange a pre-authorised cheque for cash for you. Your nominated person would have to collect the cheque from you in this instance. Write the cheque out to The Post Office, with the name of your nominated person on the back of the cheque, and sign both sides.
Who can collect cash for you?
Previously only a named individual, such as a carer, could collect cash this way for you from the Post Office, but the extension means you can ask a friend, neighbour or another family member. Only ever ask someone you trust and know well to bring the money to you. The scheme does not require them to know your pin, bank details or have access to your debit card – so keep that with you at all times.
Do all banks provide this service?
Contact your bank directly to ask if they have signed up to the scheme. If they have, they will let the Post Office know your bank details so that money can be collected for you.
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