Use this guide if your bank no longer suits you, you want better features or a switching offer. Have your current account details, a list of your regular payments and some photo ID ready.
Step by step
Decide what you want from a bank
Write down what matters most: a good app, branch access, an arranged overdraft, fee-free spending abroad or a switching offer. Check any monthly fees and the conditions for offers, such as paying in a minimum amount. Make sure the new bank is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority.
List your regular payments
Look through two or three months of statements and list every Direct Debit, standing order and money coming in, such as wages and benefits. Include card payments set up with companies, as these do not move automatically. This list is your checklist for later.
Open the new account and choose a switch date
Apply for the new account and select a full switch using the Current Account Switch Service. The switch takes seven working days, and you can choose a date that avoids your payday or big bills. Your old account will be closed as part of a full switch.
Let the switch service do the work
Direct Debits, standing orders and incoming payments move to the new account automatically. Payments sent to your old account are redirected for a period after the switch. Keep enough money available in case an overdraft on the old account needs to be cleared or arranged elsewhere.
Update card payments and details
Give your new card details to any company that takes regular card payments, such as streaming services or online shops. Update your details with your employer or payroll if they ask. Check that your digital wallets and saved cards are changed.
Check everything arrived
For the first month, check each payment on your list has come out of or gone into the new account. Contact any company whose payment is missing. Download statements from your old account before you lose access.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Priorities for a new account written down
- New bank is FCA authorised
- Regular payments listed
- Switch date chosen away from payday
- Overdraft on old account dealt with
- Card payments updated
- Old statements downloaded
- First month of payments checked
Practical tips
- Read the terms of any switching offer carefully; some require several Direct Debits or a minimum deposit within a set time.
- Opening a new account usually involves a credit search, so avoid switching just before applying for a mortgage.
- Check whether your new bank's savings are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, and whether it shares a banking licence with another brand you use.
Common problems
A payment was missed or charged a fee during the switch.
The Current Account Switch Guarantee means the banks should refund interest and charges caused by a problem with the switch. Contact your new bank and explain what happened, with the date and amount.
You were refused the new account.
Ask the bank if it can tell you the main reason, and check your credit file for errors. You are entitled to a basic bank account at many banks if you cannot get a standard current account.
Money is still being paid into your old account months later.
Redirection does not last forever, so contact the payer and give them your new details. If money has been sent to a closed account, ask your old bank how to get it back.
This guide gives general information, not personal legal, financial or medical advice. Rules and prices change, so check the current position with the official service before acting.
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