Best UK Bank Switching Offers

Last updated: 15/11/2024

first direct

Account: 1st Account

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.90%

Interest Rate (AER): 0.00%

Account Fee: N/A

Switching Incentive: £175 cash for accounts switching using the Current Account Switch Service. Additional T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1,200. Up to £250.00 charged at 0.00% EAR Variable. Over £250.00 charged at 39.90% EAR Variable. Representative 30.5% APR variable.}

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Lloyds Bank

Account: Club Lloyds

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.90%

Interest Rate (AER): 1.50%

Account Fee: £3.00 pm

Switching Incentive: £200 for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service before 10 December 2024, including at least 3 direct debits. Previous account must be closed, w.e.f. 2 October 2024.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200. Up to £50.00 charged at 0.00% EAR Variable. Over £50.00 charged at 39.90% EAR Variable. Representative 29.9% APR variable.}

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Lloyds Bank

Account: Silver - with Club Lloyds

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.90%

Interest Rate (AER): 1.50%

Account Fee: £3.00 pm, £11.50 pm

Switching Incentive: £200 for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service before 10 December 2024, including at least 3 direct debits. Previous account must be closed, w.e.f. 2 October 2024.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200. Up to £50.00 charged at 0.00% EAR Variable. Over £50.00 charged at 39.90% EAR Variable. Representative 74.5% APR variable.}

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Lloyds Bank

Account: Platinum - with Club Lloyds

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.90%

Interest Rate (AER): 1.50%

Account Fee: £3.00 pm, £22.50 pm

Switching Incentive: £200 for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service before 10 December 2024, including at least 3 direct debits. Previous account must be closed, w.e.f. 2 October 2024.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200. Up to £50.00 charged at 0.00% EAR Variable. Over £50.00 charged at 39.90% EAR Variable. Representative 74.5% APR variable.}

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Nationwide BS

Account: FlexAccount

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.90%

Interest Rate (AER): 0.00%

Account Fee: N/A

Switching Incentive: £175 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service, including at least 2 direct debits. Must deposit £1,000 and make at least 1 debit card payment within 31 days. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 39.90% EAR Variable. Representative 39.9% APR variable.}

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Nationwide BS

Account: FlexDirect - Funded

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.90%

Interest Rate (AER): 5.00%

Account Fee: N/A

Switching Incentive: £175 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service, including at least 2 direct debits. Must deposit £1,000 and make at least 1 debit card payment within 31 days. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 39.90% EAR Variable. Representative 39.9% APR variable.}

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Nationwide BS

Account: FlexPlus

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.90%

Interest Rate (AER): 0.00%

Account Fee: £13.00 pm

Switching Incentive: £175 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service, including at least 2 direct debits. Must deposit £1,000 and make at least 1 debit card payment within 31 days. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 39.90% EAR Variable. Representative 39.9% APR variable.}

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NatWest

Account: Reward

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.49%

Interest Rate (AER): 0.00%

Account Fee: £2.00 pm

Switching Incentive: £180 for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service. Must deposit £1,250 and log in to mobile banking app within 60 days of switching. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 39.49% EAR Variable. Representative 39.5% APR variable.}

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NatWest

Account: Premier Reward

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.49%

Interest Rate (AER): 0.00%

Account Fee: £2.00 pm

Switching Incentive: £180 for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service. Must deposit £1,250 and log in to mobile banking app within 60 days of switching. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 39.49% EAR Variable. Representative 39.5% APR variable.}

Compare Current Accounts
Santander

Account: Everyday Current Account

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.94%

Interest Rate (AER): 0.00%

Account Fee: N/A

Switching Incentive: £150 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switching Service provided at least £1.5K credited and 2 direct debits active within 60 days of request. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 39.94% EAR Variable. Representative 39.9% APR variable.}

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Santander

Account: Private Current Account (v2)

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.94%

Interest Rate (AER): 3.00%

Account Fee: £5.00 pm

Switching Incentive: £150 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switching Service provided at least £1.5K credited and 2 direct debits active within 60 days of request. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 39.94% EAR Variable. Representative 39.9% APR variable.}

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Santander

Account: Santander Edge current account

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.94%

Interest Rate (AER): 0.00%

Account Fee: £3.00 pm

Switching Incentive: £150 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switching Service provided at least £1.5K credited and 2 direct debits active within 60 days of request. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 39.94% EAR Variable. Representative 39.9% APR variable.}

Compare Current Accounts
Santander

Account: Santander Edge Up current account

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 39.94%

Interest Rate (AER): 3.00%

Account Fee: £5.00 pm

Switching Incentive: £150 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switching Service provided at least £1.5K credited and 2 direct debits active within 60 days of request. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 39.94% EAR Variable. Representative 39.9% APR variable.}

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The Co-operative Bank

Account: Current Account - Age 18 and over

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 35.90%

Interest Rate (AER): 0.00%

Account Fee: N/A

Switching Incentive: £75 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service. Must deposit £1K or more, have 2 or more active direct debits, make at least 10 debit card payments, register for online banking or mobile app and register debit card in a digital wallet within 30 days. Receive £25 per month for up to 3 months after receiving the £75 switch offer. Must deposit £1K or more, making at least 10 debit card transactions and have 2 or direct debits each month. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 35.90% EAR Variable. Representative 35.9% APR variable.}

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The Co-operative Bank

Account: Everyday Extra

Arranged Overdraft Rate (EAR): 35.90%

Interest Rate (AER): 0.00%

Account Fee: £15.00 pm

Switching Incentive: £75 cashback for accounts switched using the Current Account Switch Service. Must deposit £1K or more, have 2 or more active direct debits, make at least 10 debit card payments, register for online banking or mobile app and register debit card in a digital wallet within 30 days. Receive £25 per month for up to 3 months after receiving the £75 switch offer. Must deposit £1K or more, making at least 10 debit card transactions and have 2 or direct debits each month. T&Cs apply.

_{Representative Example:}_{Based on an overdraft limit of £1200 charged at 35.90% EAR Variable. Representative 35.9% APR variable.}

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Switching offers explained

At a glance

• The Current Account Switch Service has made it quicker and easier to switch bank accounts.
• The service is free, and switches should be completed within seven working days.
• Direct debits should automatically transfer to your new account.
• Your new provider should do all the legwork for you!

Why do people switch banks?

People may switch banks due to poor customer service, to improve the rate of interest they earn or to benefit from a switching incentive.

How to switch current accounts

You may think switching would be too much of a hassle, but thanks to the Current Account Switch Service, it's easier than ever to change your bank account. What's more, it's completely free.

Banks involved in the scheme have pledged to complete the switching process in seven days or fewer, and as an added guarantee they'll even refund you any charges or lost interest incurred should things go wrong.

This all means that there's no reason to stick with a bank you're unhappy with. If you're looking for an account that offers extra services, cash incentives or simply a better interest rate, then now's the time to get searching, and we want to help make the process as stress-free as possible. So, here's a quick guide on how to switch so you can reap the rewards that a new current account could bring.

Shop around for the most suitable account

First of all, you need to take some time to research the market before committing to a new account as there are plenty of options to choose from. Comparisons are key.

You'll want to look at the features, charges, overdraft facilities and interest rates to decide if the account will suit your financial needs and lifestyle, and see what incentives can be offered, too (some accounts offer the likes of mobile phone and travel insurance as part of a paid-for accounts package, while others will offer up to £125 cashback just for switching).

OK, I've made a decision. How do I switch?

Once you've found a suitable account and have checked that the bank is part of the scheme (those participating will display the Current Account Switch Guarantee Trustmark), you can get things underway.

All you need to do is let the new bank know your intention to switch, provide them with proof of your identity (most will do this electronically, or you may need to supply some documents such as a utility bill, bank statement, passport, driving licence etc.), agree a specific switch date and fill in a couple of forms – a Current Account Switch Agreement form and a Current Account Closure Instruction form – and they'll take it from there.

How long does the switching process take?

Under the new rules, a new current account must be fully operational within seven working days.

Your existing provider is obliged to supply the new bank or building society with any direct debit and standing order details, and once the switch has taken place, any payments coming into or going out of your old account will be automatically redirected for 36 months. Any money remaining in your old account on the switch date will be automatically transferred to the new account, too.

Will I have to pay any charges if errors are made?

No. The Current Account Switch Guarantee is a core part of the scheme and guarantees that, should mistakes be made and penalties incurred (such as charges levied should direct debits be taken from your old account), you'll be completely refunded.

The same applies if you suffer from loss of interest or have any other problems during the switching process.

Can you switch bank accounts online?

Yes most banks offered a switching incentive will allow you to apply and switch online. During this process you should check if your bank is using the Current Account Switching Service, which ensures all your payments will be transferred without you needing to contact all your payees. You shouldn’t miss any payments as a result. Read more in our guide to the Current Account Switching Service.

FAQs

Do banks run a credit check to open a new account?

Basic accounts (also known as bad credit bank accounts) and prepaid accounts will not need the provider to run a credit check to open. Basically, these are designed for those who have a poor credit score and while you will likely get an ATM card, these forms of account will not allow you any form of credit or overdraft. Often the cards issued will be debit-only, meaning that if you try to buy something but lack enough funds in your account, then the transaction will be refused.

On the other hand, if you are opening a standard account (i.e. one that is not intended for consumers with bad credit scores) or one that includes a package of benefits (sometimes called packaged or premium accounts), then the bank will be running a credit check to confirm your identity and assess your ability to handle credit.

Does switching bank accounts affect my credit score?

Every time you make an application that involves a hard credit check this will leave an impression on your credit file. In some cases, your credit score may dip, especially if you apply for multiple sources of credit in close succession. Generally a single credit switch made outside of any other credit applications should have little impact in your credit score.

Closing accounts is often believed to be a good way to improve your credit score. However, in some circumstances it can actually hurt your scoring instead. An important factor in credit scoring is the proportion of total balances vs. your total credit limit. Paying off credit lowers this proportion, improving a credit score, but closing an account will likewise reduce your overall credit, making the proportion of debt higher and as a consequence it may negatively affect your credit score.

Closed bank accounts (and credit card accounts too) will remain on your credit history for seven to 10 years, depending on the way they were operated and closed. Having closed accounts on your credit history is quite normal and enables a more accurate picture of your financial history for credit scoring.

Can banks see your other bank accounts?

Banks cannot see details of your bank accounts when you apply or switch a bank account or if you use a digital banking app that brings all your accounts into one place. The only times they may be able to share information between each other is in suspected cases of fraud/ illegal activity, or if a court order or warrant has been granted for this to happen.

1. A bank cannot see your bank account details when you switch. When you apply or switch bank account, a credit check (if applicable) will show on your credit file. However, your bank account balance or overdraft used or available are not shown, unlike with loan products, which show an outstanding balance or an available amount of credit.

2. Banks do not share details of accounts between them on money management apps. There are digital banking apps that enable you to see all your bank accounts in one place – this is often referred to as ‘Open Banking’. This is only allowed with your direct permission (this is part of the sign-up process) and the individual banks included cannot see your other bank accounts.

3. Banks may share details if they suspect fraud or illegal activity. Banks do co-operate in anti-fraud initiatives, which might result in them sharing details where they think illegal activity or an attempt to commit fraud is taking place.

Can I switch accounts if I'm overdrawn?

Yes, and your new bank may offer ways to help pay off your overdraft (subject to usual lending criteria). The industry regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority, now requires current account providers to put overdraft eligibility checking tools on their websites, so customers can see if an existing overdraft is likely to be acceptable to a new provider.

When you switch banks using the Current Account Switching Service, does your old account close?

Yes. As part of the Current Account Switching Service, your old bank will close your previous current account within seven days of a successful transfer. In addition, any monies sent to your old current account will be automatically diverted to your new account.

Can I change my mind?

Yes, but only up to seven working days before the agreed switch date. After that only certain elements can be cancelled.

How many bank accounts can I have?

There is no limit to the number of bank accounts you can have. While the standard check that banks do when you open a new account will appear on your credit history, this has either a very small or no impact at all on your credit score. In addition, switching accounts from one provider to another will be recorded, but again there is little to no impact on your credit score no matter how many times you do this. In fact, if you open a basic bank account or similar bank account designed for those who have a poor credit score, these will not appear on your credit history at all.

Will I have to pay for switching?

No, it's an entirely free service that's been designed by Payments UK (formerly the Payments Council) and run by Bacs – a not-for-profit organisation owned by the New Payment System Operator – to make switching quick and simple. Why not take advantage of it?

Can you switch multiple current accounts?

Yes, you can switch more than one current account, but these need to be done one at a time.

How often can I switch current accounts?

You can switch bank accounts as often as you wish. If these accounts require a credit check you may find your credit score dips if multiple applications are made close together. You could also find that the bank you want to switch to has restrictions for those that have previously been customers.

Editorial Team

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Relaunched: first direct’s £175 switching offer

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This limited time offer could see customers earn a switching bonus by moving to an eligible current account.

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High street providers TSB and Lloyds Bank have launched new switching deals at the end of last month. While Lloyds Bank offers the larger cash incentive at £175, savers may want to consider both options.

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