FCA calls on Scottish consumers to ‘act now’ as PPI complaints deadline pressure builds

FCA figures show the regulator has had more than 3.9 million users access the PPI website and 44,000 calls to their dedicated contact centre. On top of that, a total of £334.3m was paid in April 2019 to customers who complained about the way they were sold PPI.

This takes the amount paid since January 2011 to £35.3bn.

To emphasise how pressing the deadline is, the FCA has brought back the animatronic head of Arnold Schwarzenegger for the final time in a campaign that will run nationwide across the summer. These latest ads feature Arnie in a hydraulic press, urging people to take action on PPI before it’s too late. As the deadline approaches, the series of advertisements will gradually reveal Arnie’s fate.

Emma Stranack, FCA’s PPI deadline campaign lead, said: “With just two months to go, time is running out to claim back money for PPI. Simply put, if you haven’t complained to your provider by 29 August 2019, you won’t be able to claim money back for PPI – so you should make your decision as soon as possible. Checking if you had PPI is simple and free. Don’t worry about paperwork, you only need your date of birth and relevant previous addresses. Search FCA PPI or call 0800 101 88 00 to find out how.”

Personal finance expert and consumer champion, Sarah Pennells, said: “The PPI deadline is fast approaching – so now is the time to contact your bank, loan or card company as soon as possible. You can complain to them directly for free and you can use the FCA’s website for more information.  You don’t have to use a claims management company as providers are supposed to make sure that complaining about PPI is straightforward. I am working with the FCA to help remind consumers that now is the time to decide whether or not to make a complaint before the deadline on the 29 August 2019.”