How bank switching works in the UK
The Current Account Switch Service moves your account for you. Here’s what happens, how long it takes, and what to do before you start.
A full switch through the Current Account Switch Service takes 7 working days. Your new bank moves your balance, Direct Debits, standing orders and incoming payments, and your old account is closed. Switching offers usually require a full switch like this.
What the switching service does
The Current Account Switch Service is used by more than 50 UK banks and building societies. When you request a full switch, your new bank handles it:
- Your balance is moved to your new account.
- Regular outgoing payments, including Direct Debits and standing orders, are moved.
- Regular incoming payments, such as your salary, are moved.
- Saved payees are moved, and your old account is closed.
If something goes wrong, the service’s guarantee covers any charges or interest caused by the switch.
How long it takes
Allow 7 working days. You choose a switch date, which can’t be a weekend or bank holiday. You can keep using your old account until then, but payments set up during the 7-day period won’t be transferred.
Full switch vs partial switch
A partial switch moves payments but leaves your old account open. It may take longer and isn’t covered by the same guarantee. Switching offers usually require a full switch.
Before you request a switch
- Read the offer’s terms: Direct Debits, pay-in amounts, deadlines and eligibility.
- Make sure the Direct Debits you need are active on your current account.
- Open the new account and pick a switch date at least 7 working days away.
- Avoid setting up new payments in the 7 working days before the switch.
- After the switch, complete any remaining steps, like paying in or logging in.
Always check the current terms of your bank’s offer. Each bank sets its own rules, they change often, and a switching reward is never guaranteed.