Barclays Life Assurance Co Ltd

Advantages: professional service, wide range of products, reasonable premiums
Disadvantages: none

...and I will just here point out that we did not go for the cheapest option, we elected to take our 25 year policy out with Barclays as we have both got accounts with them and both have never had any reason to question their standards or professionalism. The cheapest options available were what is known as decreasing term assurance where the lump sum payable on death decreases each year in line with the outstanding mortgage debt. This meant that if one of us died straight away £172,000 would be payable, but if one of us died in 24 years, the likely lump sum would be only £10,000-£15,000. We opted to go for level term assurance so the lump sum payable would remain at £172,000 for the entire 25 year term. It works out more expensive, but if one of us dies in 15 years, there is a nice lump sum available to assist with funeral costs and additional... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: none that I can think off
Disadvantages: over priced - not flexible

...Not only are the products over priced but lack flexability. The admin is appaling I have recently tried to take my proceeds from a personal pension. They managed to lose my birth certificate - supposedly sent 3 sets of quotes out and after 6 weeks have received 1. They have a service standard of 5 working days, I think not. No new policies available as now Scottish Widows through LloydsTsb, however whilst slightly better priced you can get Scottish Widows cheaper on line through an intermediary. If you have an existing BHL term assurance policy you will probably find an alternative cheaper even after 3/4 yrs. My advice steer clear unless you are certain your getting value for money even consider alternative suppliers.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Great customer service
Disadvantages: Some people just love to hate banks!

.... Barclays has its own representatives from Barclays Life Assurance who deal with these products. The recent tie-up with Legal & General means they are also now able to offer products from other companies. Credit Cards – possibly one of the best known credit cards is Barclaycard. This is Barclays own card and is available as a Visa card or a MasterCard. Business accounts – Barclays does not just cater for personal customers. They also have a wide range of products designed for business of all sizes, from sole traders, clubs, partnerships, and limited companies up to PLC’s. Business managers are available in all outlets to discuss your needs. ONLINE BANKING Via its website (www.barclays.co.uk) you can access your accounts 24 hours a day. The online banking facility enables you to check balances, make bill payments, transfer... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful