Barclays, one of the UK’s largest banks, is grappling with a significant IT outage that has disrupted its app and online banking services. This issue is affecting thousands of customers across the UK, coinciding with a crucial payday and the self-assessment tax return deadline. The bank’s ability to process payments in and out of accounts is severely compromised, leaving many individuals unable to complete essential transactions.
The outage has caused widespread inconvenience, as reported by downdetector, a website that monitors online service disruptions. Customers have expressed frustration over being unable to access their funds or make payments to HMRC, potentially facing penalties for missing today's tax submission deadline. Despite these challenges, Barclays has assured customers that card transactions and cash machines remain operational, although some users have reported issues with declined cards despite having sufficient funds.
"We're sorry for this and are working hard to fix the problem. As soon as it's resolved, we'll let our customers know." – A Barclays spokesperson
The outage is particularly disruptive given the timing. Many UK residents receive their salaries today, and the inability to access banking services adds stress to an already hectic financial day. One poignant example is a family stranded at a service station in Horsham, West Sussex, unable to move into their new home due to transaction failures.
"Because the system is down, the money can't go through" – Scott
Barclays processes over 40% of the UK's credit and debit card transactions and serves more than 20 million retail customers. The current disruption is not an isolated incident; last year, similar issues affected thousands of UK bank customers, including those from other leading financial institutions.
The bank has yet to provide an explanation for the IT problems. This lack of clarity adds to customer frustration, particularly among those who need immediate access to their funds for critical payments and commitments. The situation also underscores the vulnerability of digital banking systems during peak financial periods.
The IT failure not only impacts individual customers but also businesses that rely on Barclays for daily transactions. Delays in processing payments can disrupt business operations, leading to further economic consequences.
HMRC has reiterated that those who fail to meet the self-assessment tax return deadline by midnight could face a £100 fine. With millions still yet to file their returns, the pressure on affected Barclays customers is mounting.