Initially getting settled in the UK

Greetings again, just a few more inquiries:  prior to your final move did you go to the UK to find your new abode, set up your utilities, etc.  We have funds already set at HSBC as we use this bank locally.  From what I have read your bank card needs a guarantee to be able to pay your monthly expenses.  I also understand that stellar credit in the US means nothing in the UK.  What documentation would suggest I bring with me that could be of use.  We do have the luxury of staying with relatives when we make the move, however, I don't want to be a burden to them as they also run a pub which takes up a lot of their time.  Once again, thanks for all of your  help and support.  God knows I really need it to keep my sanity intact.  Michele 

If you decide to do the staying with relatives route, make sure you get mail sent to both you and your husband at that address for the time you live there.  There's suggestions on what to get sent and how in the Visa and Citizenship section.  It won't be as simple as you won't be paying utilities, but you will need it for your ILR.  I know my husband's bank won't put my name on his accounts until we go in with a piece of mail with my name and address on it, so you could try to start getting things sent there now to open your bank accounts.  I don't know anything about a guarantee, but if there is one, I am sure someone can explain it to you.

Thanks for the info, you just may have saved me a few thousand dollars by doing this differently and I had originally planned.  I will check out the site you recommended and take it from there, it's a start.  Michele 

From what I have read your bank card needs a guarantee to be able to pay your monthly expenses. 

I dont know what you mean by this.   

Most people here pay their monthly bills by Direct Debit from their bank account, if that helps.

  Thanks for all the suggestions and help.  I have been through the Visa and Citizenship section to where the words are a blur and cannot find any information regarding what type of mail I should start having sent to the relatives that will start the residency process moving along.  My husband is going to change our UK bank account so the statements will be sent to his brother's house.  I am on the account, but this is not a joint account because at the time we never dreamed that this would become an issue although I have signed paperwork with the bank.  I am going to see if perhaps  the bank will convert the account to a joint one.  Does junk mail count?  Information from universities? From what I understand to even apply for credit out there you  must reside there for three years, so we shall be on a cash basis which I prefer anyway.  if someone could steer me in the right direction I would appreciate it.  I don't want to be an inconvenience to the family as their generosity to us has always been phenomenal.  Once we get there, I want my own space!  Thanks loads.  Cheers!  Michele

This post will help you Michele 

http://talk.uk-yankee.com/index.php?topic=36355.0

Take care,
Chrissy

Many thanks Chrissy for your assistance.  Enjoy the rest of your day, while mine is just beginning.  That feels so strange!  Cheers!  Michele 

The mail won't count for your ILR until you enter the country, but having it coming in already helps establish the flow and helps with things like your bank account once you get there.  I didn't mean to confuse you, and I normally wouldn't have brought something to do with your ILR before you moved, but I thought it would help with your bank account.