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How to Switch Current Accounts UK Step by Step (2026): Hassle‑Free Switching in 7 Days

Switching your current account used to be a headache—cancelling direct debits, updating employers, and risking missed payments. Today, thanks to the Current Account Switch Service (CASS), you can move banks in just seven working days, with all your payments transferred automatically. Better still, many banks offer cash bonuses of £100–£200 to tempt you to switch.

This step‑by‑step guide walks you through the entire process, from choosing a new account to completing the switch, and answers all the common questions about switching bonuses, credit scores, and what to watch out for in 2026.

Why Switch Your Current Account?

Get a cash bonus: Many banks pay £100–£200 for switching (see our list below).
Better interest rates: Earn interest on your balance (some accounts pay up to 5% AER).
Lower fees: Avoid monthly account fees or reduce overdraft charges.
Improved customer service: Move to a bank with higher satisfaction ratings.
Ethical banking: Switch to a provider that aligns with your values (e.g., Triodos, The Co‑operative Bank).

Before You Switch: Checklist

Check your old account: Make sure there are no pending transactions or disputes.
Gather documents: You’ll need proof of identity (passport, driving licence) and proof of address (utility bill, bank statement).
Note down your regular payments: List any direct debits, standing orders, and regular incoming payments (salary, pension, benefits).
Consider your credit score: A switch involves a hard credit search, which may temporarily affect your score. Avoid switching if you’re about to apply for a mortgage or loan.

Step‑by‑Step Switching Process

Step 1: Choose Your New Account

Compare current accounts using comparison sites like [AFFILIATE LINK] MoneySuperMarket or [AFFILIATE LINK] Which?. Look for:

Switching bonus: £100–£200 for moving your account (check eligibility criteria).
Interest rate: Some accounts pay interest on balances up to a certain limit.
Overdraft terms: APR, fees, and interest‑free buffers.
Monthly fees: Many accounts are free, but packaged accounts may charge a fee for added benefits (insurance, travel perks).
Customer service ratings: Check Which? or Trustpilot scores.

Top Switching Bonuses in 2026

Bank	Switching Bonus	Eligibility Criteria	Notes
[AFFILIATE LINK] Lloyds Bank	£500	Deposit £2,000/month, 2 active direct debits, pay £3/month fee.	Premier account only; bonus paid within 30 days.
[AFFILIATE LINK] Santander	£200	Deposit £1,000/month, switch 2+ direct debits.	Bonus paid within 90 days.
[AFFILIATE LINK] Nationwide	£150	Deposit £1,000/month, 2+ direct debits.	Building society; bonus paid within 10 days.
[AFFILIATE LINK] Halifax	£125	Switch 2+ direct debits, deposit £1,500/month.	Bonus paid within 30 days.
[AFFILIATE LINK] first direct	£100	No monthly funding requirement.	Must not have held a first direct account before.

Bonuses and terms change frequently; verify with the bank before applying.

Step 2: Apply for the New Account

Apply online, in branch, or via the bank’s app.
The bank will run a credit check and ask for your identification.
Once approved, you’ll receive your new account details and can start the switch.

Step 3: Initiate the Switch Using CASS

Your new bank will ask if you want to use the Current Account Switch Service. Say yes.
Provide the details of your old account (account number, sort code).
Choose a switch date (at least seven working days ahead).
Decide whether to do a full switch (all payments moved, old account closed) or a partial switch (keep your old account open). Most people choose a full switch for simplicity.

Step 4: Let CASS Do the Work

CASS will automatically transfer:
- All direct debits and standing orders.
- Recurring payments (e.g., salary, pension, benefits) for 36 months.
- Your remaining balance (on the switch date).
Your old account will be closed automatically.
You’ll receive confirmation from both banks once the switch is complete.

Step 5: Update Any Manual Payments

CASS does not update:

Card details stored with online retailers (Amazon, Netflix, PayPal).
Payments made via mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay).
Logins for third‑party budgeting apps (e.g., Money Dashboard, Yolt).

Go through your statements and update these manually to avoid interrupted services.

What Could Go Wrong (and How to Avoid It)

Missed payments: CASS guarantees that if a payment is missed due to the switch, you’ll be reimbursed any charges or interest. Keep a small buffer in your old account just in case.
Switching bonus not paid: Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria (minimum deposit, active direct debits, etc.) and keep proof.
Credit score dip: The hard search will appear on your file for 12 months. This is normal and the impact is small unless you’re about to apply for major credit.
Overdraft not transferred: Overdrafts are not covered by CASS. You’ll need to arrange an overdraft with your new bank separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a switch take?

CASS guarantees completion within seven working days. Most switches finish sooner (3–5 days).

Can I switch if I have an overdraft?

Yes, but the overdraft won’t transfer automatically. You’ll need to apply for a new overdraft with your new bank. Make sure you can repay your old overdraft before the switch date.

Will switching affect my credit score?

There will be a hard credit search when you apply for the new account, which may cause a small, temporary dip. The switch itself (closing an old account, opening a new one) has minimal long‑term impact.

Can I switch to a joint account?

Yes, CASS supports switching from a sole account to a joint account (and vice versa). Both applicants will need to provide identification and pass credit checks.

What if I change my mind?

You have a 14‑day cooling‑off period after opening the new account. If you cancel within this period, the switch will be reversed and your old account reopened.

Are there any fees?

No. The Current Account Switch Service is completely free.

After the Switch: Next Steps

Destroy your old debit card and any remaining cheques.
Set up online/mobile banking for your new account.
Monitor your new account for the first few weeks to ensure all payments are arriving and leaving correctly.
Claim your switching bonus if you haven’t received it within the promised timeframe.

Conclusion

Switching your current account in 2026 is faster, safer, and more rewarding than ever. With the Current Account Switch Service handling the logistics and banks offering generous cash bonuses, there’s little reason to stay with an account that no longer suits you.

Follow the steps above, pick a bank that offers the right mix of bonus, rates, and service, and enjoy a smoother banking experience—plus a welcome cash boost.

Article last updated: 23 March 2026

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