Not sure why the bank would know the cause of the debt. Maybe someone wrote a check for more money or an autopayment came through and not enough money in account. Sounds like an old account is overdrawn and she just needs to settle the debt. Could be hers or her husband (is he an ex) it would need to be cleared before she can get an account.
I wouldn't get mad at the bank since they are the ones who have money owed to them. I can't blame them for not opening a new account until and old debt is repaid.
Sounds like an issue with either her or her husband/ex or both.
What amount are we talking about.....less than $100 or $1,000's of dollars. If a small amount I would pay and open the account.
