Over a million people in Ireland who are currently with KBC or Ulster Bank are facing major delays in switching their accounts.
Due to a shortage of staff in some banks, those trying to schedule in-person appointments to get their affairs in order ahead of the big shutdown are having to wait weeks on end to be seen.
As has been seen across many sectors, the banks are dealing with staff shortages amid the increased demand for new accounts.
According to the Irish Independent, some people who are trying to open with a new bank are also being temporarily blocked from a number of services.
READ MORE: Irish bank customers waiting up to two hours to have phone calls answered, report shows
These include opening a credit card account and getting an overdraft facility.
The issues are a result of long delays associated with mandatory credit rating assessments, which are carried out for every new customer applying for any loan service.
Those seeking to transfer to a bank where they can avail of an overdraft need to have had their new account for three months before they can be deemed eligible.
The Central Bank is now being urged to take action and do more in order to halt any “chaos” due to the closures.
Despite the complications, consumer journalist Sinead Ryan told Newstalk’s The Hard Shoulder that while KBC is pulling out quicker than was expected, Ulster Bank will still be around in a year or two.
She said: "KBC has decided to pull out of Ireland that little bit quicker than had originally been anticipated.
"So by all accounts, they're only going to give customers only about 90 days... it's not much.
"Ulster Bank is saying 'we'll give you at least six months notice' - but in truth, the reality is Ulster Bank will still be here in a year or two.”
She confirmed that it is in fact more complicated for people who have other services with the banks - such as current accounts, deposit accounts, credit cards, car loans, and overdrafts, but said a Central Bank switching code could save some stress.
"They compel the bank you are moving to give you what's called a switching pack.
"And in undertaking that, your whole account - direct debits and standing orders and all that - would be transferred within 10 working days."
However, with staff shortages and a huge influx of new customers, people are being warned the 10-day wait could shoot up amid the demand.
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