Best Current Account Switch Offers
Compare switching bonuses, interest rates, and account benefits. Get up to £175 free cash.
Featured Platforms:
Best Current Account Switch Offers (October 2025)
Banks compete for your business with cash bonuses, interest, and perks - compare offers and find your best deal
Independent comparison of UK banks actively recruiting new customers
Banks compete for new customers by offering cash bonuses to switch current accounts. The Current Account Switch Service (CASS) makes moving banks simple and guaranteed to complete in 7 working days - all your payments transfer automatically.
Good to know: You can switch between banks until you find the right account for you. Each bank has different eligibility rules, so check the terms below to see which offers you qualify for and when you can switch again.
Personal Current Account Switch Offers
Filter offers:
Get £400 cash for high earners (£75k+ salary) or those with £100k to save. Includes Apple TV+, MLS Pass, and 4.36% saver. No monthly fees. Premier banking service included.
✅ Easy
💳 £0/mo
Total Value
£400
Typical Payout
28 days
Monthly Fee
£0
Account Benefits
- Free Apple TV+ subscription (worth £9.99/month)
- Free Major League Soccer Season Pass (worth £14.99/month)
- 4.36% interest on up to £5,000 in linked saver
- Premier customer service and support
- No monthly account fee
- Access to Premier banking services
Requirements
- Earn £75,000+ per year OR have £100,000 to save with Barclays
- Open via app or in branch
- Pay in £4,000 within 30 days of opening
- Switch via CASS including 2+ Direct Debits by 27 Nov
- Complete switch within 30 days of starting it
Things to Consider
- High income requirement (£75k salary) or £100k savings
- Must pay in £4,000 within 30 days (higher than standard account)
- Can't have had any Barclays current account on/after 7 October
- Can't have ever received Barclays switch cash before
- Limited to high earners or substantial savers only
Pro Tips
- Worth considering if you meet salary requirements - double the bonus
- Premier perks included free (no Blue Rewards fee needed)
- Can qualify via savings balance if salary doesn't meet threshold
- Premium customer service included
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming you qualify - check income/savings requirements first
- Forgetting the £4,000 deposit requirement (double the standard)
- Not checking if you have access to Premier eligibility
Offer expires: 11 November 2025
Get £200 cash plus Apple TV+ and Major League Soccer Pass subscriptions (£25/month value). Blue Rewards required (£5/month) with >4% saver on up to £5,000. Cancel after bonus if you don't need the streaming perks.
✅ Easy
💳 £5/mo
Total Value
£200
Typical Payout
28 days
Monthly Fee
£5
Account Benefits
- Free Apple TV+ subscription (worth £9.99/month)
- Free Major League Soccer Season Pass (worth £14.99/month)
- 4.36% interest on up to £5,000 in linked saver
- Digital banking required
- No monthly fee on the account itself
Requirements
- Open a Barclays Bank Account via the app
- Join Blue Rewards scheme (£5/month fee)
- Pay in £2,000 within 30 days of opening
- Switch via CASS including 2+ Direct Debits by 27 Nov
- Complete switch within 30 days of starting it
Things to Consider
- Blue Rewards costs £5/month (but perks can offset this)
- Must pay in £800/month to keep Blue Rewards active
- Need to apply via Barclays app only (no joint accounts)
- Can't have had any Barclays current account on/after 7 October
- Can't have ever received Barclays switch cash before
- Interest rate drops to 4.13% on 30 October
Pro Tips
- Cancel Blue Rewards after receiving bonus if you don't want ongoing perks
- Apple TV+ and MLS Pass worth £25/month combined if you'll use them
- The £800/month requirement only applies if you keep Blue Rewards active
- Blue Rewards perks make the £5 fee worthwhile for streaming fans
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Must apply via app only (only works during regular banking hours)
- Forgetting the £2,000 deposit is separate from the £800 monthly requirement
- Not joining Blue Rewards (required for the bonus)
- Applying for joint account (solo accounts only)
Offer expires: 1 January 1970
Get £100 for switching via CASS, plus an extra £100 when you open a Regular Saver. Northern Ireland residents only. Free banking when in credit. Total value up to £200.
🎯 Medium
💳 £0/mo
Total Value
£100-£200
Typical Payout
30 days
Monthly Fee
£0
Account Benefits
- Free daily banking when account is in credit
- Visa debit card included
- Mobile and online banking
- Text alerts for account management
- CASS guarantee - 7 working day switch
- Access to Regular Saver account
Requirements
- Must be a new AIB NI Classic Account customer
- Must be 18+ and Northern Ireland resident only
- Switch using CASS from another bank
- Deposit £1,500+ within 30 days of switch
- Set up 2 active Direct Debits within 30 days
- For extra £100: Open Regular Saver within 30 days and deposit £100+
Things to Consider
- Northern Ireland residents only (not available in GB)
- Higher minimum deposit than most (£1,500 vs typical £1,000)
- Need to open separate Regular Saver for full £200 bonus
- Must be new customer to AIB NI
- Offer can be withdrawn at any time
Pro Tips
- Total bonus can reach £200 (£100 for switch + £100 for Regular Saver)
- Regular Saver bonus requires only £100 deposit to trigger
- Keep account in credit to avoid monthly fees
- Set up Direct Debits before switch to ensure they're "active"
- Both bonuses paid within 30 days of meeting criteria
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not meeting the £1,500 deposit requirement (higher than other banks)
- Forgetting to open Regular Saver within 30 days
- Not depositing £100 into Regular Saver to trigger second bonus
- Applying if you're not a Northern Ireland resident
- Already having an AIB NI current account
Get £200 within 10 days of switching. Choose free Disney+ or other lifestyle perks. Earn up to 3% interest on balances plus 6.25% Regular Saver. £5/month fee waived if you deposit £2,000+.
✅ Easy
💳 £5/mo
Total Value
£200
Typical Payout
10 days
Monthly Fee
£5
Account Benefits
- Choose 1 lifestyle benefit: Disney+ for 12 months, 6 cinema tickets, Coffee Club membership, or magazine subscription
- 1.5% interest on balances £1-£3,999.99 (requires 2+ Direct Debits)
- 3% interest on balances £4,000-£5,000 (requires 2+ Direct Debits)
- 6.25% Regular Saver (save £25-£400/month, max £161/year interest)
- Up to 15% cashback at selected retailers via Everyday Offers
- Fee-free spending and withdrawals abroad
- 3 months interest-free arranged overdraft (if approved)
- 0% overdraft on first £100
Requirements
- Open new Club Lloyds, Club Lloyds Silver, or Club Lloyds Platinum account
- Switch using CASS from another bank
- Transfer minimum 3 active Direct Debits
- Complete switch during offer period (started 16 Sept 2025)
- Cannot have received Lloyds/Halifax/Bank of Scotland switch bonus since April 2020
Things to Consider
- £5 monthly fee (waived if you pay in £2,000+/month)
- Silver adds £11.50/month (includes insurance)
- Platinum adds £22.50/month (includes more insurance)
- Must maintain 2 Direct Debits to earn interest
- Cannot have had switch bonus from Lloyds/Halifax/BOS since April 2020
- Existing Lloyds customers must open NEW account (can't upgrade)
Pro Tips
- Pay in £2,000/month to avoid the £5 fee
- Disney+ alone worth £120/year makes it worthwhile even with fee
- Regular Saver maxed out earns £161/year interest
- Can switch from another bank even if you're existing Lloyds customer
- 3 active Direct Debits required so set these up before switching
- Interest earned on current account balance if you keep 2 Direct Debits
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting you need 3 Direct Debits (not 2 like most banks)
- Not paying in £2,000/month and getting charged the £5 fee
- Trying to upgrade existing Lloyds account instead of opening new one
- Missing the "active" Direct Debit requirement (must have paid at least once)
- Not maintaining 2 Direct Debits ongoing (loses interest benefit)
Get £150 for switching plus up to £30 extra cashback by making 20+ card payments monthly for 3 months. Simple requirements with no Direct Debit needed. Choose free Spend & Save or Spend & Save Plus (£3/month, ongoing cashback). Expires 9 December 2025.
✅ Easy
💳 £0/mo
Total Value
£150-£180
Typical Payout
28 days
Monthly Fee
£0
Account Benefits
- Spend & Save: No monthly fee, £5/month cashback for first 6 months (with 20+ card payments)
- Spend & Save Plus: £3/month fee, £5/month cashback ongoing (with 20+ card payments)
- Both accounts: Access to TSB Rewards (discounts at Vue, Halfords, lastminute.com, etc.)
- Both accounts: Current Account Switch Guarantee (7-day guaranteed switch)
- Both accounts: Mobile banking app with standard features
- Switch bonus: Extra £10/month cashback for 3 months after receiving £150 (total £15/month)
- No Direct Debit requirement - simplest eligibility criteria of major switch offers
Requirements
- Apply for a new Spend & Save or Spend & Save Plus account (or switch to existing TSB account)
- Complete a full switch using CASS by 9 December 2025
- Pay in at least £1,000 into the account (one or more deposits from another bank)
- Make at least 5 debit card payments
- Log into TSB Mobile Banking App at least once
- Cannot have received TSB switching incentive since 1 October 2022
Things to Consider
- Cannot have received TSB switching incentive since 1 October 2022 (lifetime restriction)
- Must deposit £1,000 from another bank (not from TSB accounts)
- Mobile app login is mandatory - must download and use the app
- Cashback requires 20 card payments per month cleared in that calendar month
- Cashback timing: Payments must leave account in same month (can take 5 days to process)
- Spend & Save cashback ends after 6 months, Spend & Save Plus continues indefinitely
- Spend & Save Plus: £3/month fee means net £2/month profit from ongoing cashback
- TopCashback bonus (£20-£40) requires separate tracking and has 120+ day wait
- Must keep account open until all payments received (£150 + cashback)
- Existing Spend & Save customers switching won't get the initial 6-month cashback again
Pro Tips
- No Direct Debits needed - easiest major switch offer currently available
- The £1,000 deposit can come from savings or transferred funds during the switch
- Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay payments count as debit card transactions
- For extra cashback: make 20+ debit card payments monthly for first 3 months after getting £150
- Optional: Use TopCashback for extra £20 (Spend & Save) or £40 (Spend & Save Plus)
- Choose Spend & Save for simplicity (free, 6 months cashback, then close if desired)
- Choose Spend & Save Plus only if you'll maintain 20+ payments long-term (net £2/month profit)
- Five loose bananas bought separately = 5 card payments (easy way to hit minimum)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't let your switch complete after 9 December 2025 deadline
- Don't close the account before receiving all payments
- Don't forget the mobile app login requirement - it's mandatory
- For cashback: Payments must clear in the calendar month, not just be made
- Cashback is based on when money leaves your account (usually 5 days after transaction)
- Only get cashback once - existing Spend & Save customers won't get the 6-month bonus again
Offer expires: 12 September 2025
Get £100 within 7 days of switching, plus earn £25/month for 3 months (total £175). Includes access to 7% regular saver. Choose Standard Account (free) or Everyday Extra (£18/month with insurance, first 3 months free).
✅ Easy
💳 £0/mo
Total Value
£100-£175
Typical Payout
7 days
Monthly Fee
£0
Account Benefits
- Standard Account: No monthly fee
- Everyday Extra: Mobile phone insurance, worldwide travel insurance, UK/European breakdown cover (£18/month)
- 7% variable interest regular saver (max £250/month)
- Access to instant access savings accounts
- Mobile and online banking included
- Ethical Policy - customers have a say in how money is used
Requirements
- Request full switch using CASS within 2 weeks of opening account
- Complete switch within 8 weeks of switch request
- Deposit £1,000+ within 30 days after switch completes
- Have 2+ active Direct Debits after switch
- Make 10+ debit card payments within 30 days
- Register for online or mobile banking
Things to Consider
- Must not have had Co-op switch bonus since 1 November 2022
- Need 10 card transactions (more than most banks)
- Additional £75 requires active use for 3 months
- Everyday Extra has £18/month fee (but includes insurance)
- Must complete switch within 8 weeks of requesting it
- Some banks reject switches if you have linked products
Pro Tips
- Get £100 upfront within 7 days of meeting criteria
- Earn extra £25/month for 3 months by staying active (£1,000+ deposits, 10+ card payments, 2+ Direct Debits each month)
- Total possible: £175 (£100 + £25 + £25 + £25)
- Can miss a month and still qualify for remaining months
- Regular saver pays 7% on up to £250/month (£114 max interest/year)
- Everyday Extra first 3 months free (£54 saved) if you choose that account
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not completing switch within 8 weeks of requesting it
- Forgetting the 10 card payment requirement (higher than other banks)
- Not maintaining 2 Direct Debits throughout the 3-month period
- Depositing £1,000 before switch completes (must be after)
- Closing account before all £25 payments received
Get £175 switching to Select (no fee) or Reward (£2/mo, earns £5/mo cashback). Both include 5.5% Digital Regular Saver. Reward total first-year value: £364.
✅ Easy
💳 £0/mo
Total Value
£175
Typical Payout
30 days
Monthly Fee
£0
Account Benefits
- Select Account: No monthly fee, no ongoing requirements
- Reward Account: Earn £5/month cashback (£4 for 2+ Direct Debits, £1 for app login)
- Both accounts: Digital Regular Saver at 5.5% on up to £5,000
- Both accounts: Round Ups feature, mobile banking
- Reward Account: 1-15% cashback at partner retailers, no overseas fees
Requirements
- Open NatWest Select or Reward account online or via app
- Must not have held NatWest current account as of 16 September 2025
- Complete full switch using CASS from non-NatWest Group bank
- Deposit £1,250 within 60 days (can be multiple payments, each must stay 24 hours)
- Log into NatWest mobile banking app within 60 days
- Cannot have ever received switch bonus from NatWest/RBS/Ulster Bank
Things to Consider
- Cannot have ever received NatWest Group switch bonus before (lifetime exclusion)
- Must apply online or via app (branch/phone applications not eligible)
- Reward requires £1,250/month ongoing for cashback (Select doesn't)
- Reward has £2/month fee but earns £5/month (net £3 profit)
- Sister banks (RBS, Ulster Bank) share eligibility
Pro Tips
- Choose Reward if you can maintain £1,250/month - earns £36/year net profit
- Choose Select for no fees and no ongoing requirements
- Digital Regular Saver maxed out earns £153/year interest
- Each £1,250 deposit only needs to stay 24 hours - can withdraw and re-deposit
- Reward cashback paid to separate wallet - remember to withdraw monthly
- Can downgrade from Reward to Select after getting bonus if preferred
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying in branch or by phone (must be online/app only)
- Not logging into mobile app within 60 days
- Not keeping each individual deposit in for 24 hours
- Previously had switch bonus from RBS or Ulster Bank (excludes you)
- For Reward: Forgetting to withdraw cashback from Reward Wallet monthly
Get £175 switching to Select (no fee) or Reward (£2/mo, earns £5/mo cashback). Both include 5.5% Digital Regular Saver. Reward total first-year value: £364. Part of NatWest Group.
✅ Easy
💳 £30/mo
Total Value
£175
Typical Payout
30 days
Monthly Fee
£30
Account Benefits
- Select Account: No monthly fee, no ongoing requirements
- Reward Account: Earn £5/month cashback (£4 for 2+ Direct Debits, £1 for app login)
- Both accounts: Digital Regular Saver at 5.5% on up to £5,000
- Both accounts: Round Ups feature, mobile banking
- Reward Account: 1-15% cashback at partner retailers, no overseas fees
Requirements
- Open RBS Select or Reward account online or via app
- Must not have held RBS current account as of 16 September 2025
- Complete full switch using CASS from non-NatWest Group bank
- Deposit £1,250 within 60 days (can be multiple payments, each must stay 24 hours)
- Log into RBS mobile banking app within 60 days
- Cannot have ever received switch bonus from NatWest/RBS/Ulster Bank
Things to Consider
- Cannot have ever received NatWest Group switch bonus before (lifetime exclusion)
- Must apply online or via app (branch/phone applications not eligible)
- Reward requires £1,250/month ongoing for cashback (Select doesn't)
- Reward has £2/month fee but earns £5/month (net £3 profit)
- Part of NatWest Group (NatWest, RBS, Ulster Bank share eligibility)
- Cannot switch directly from NatWest or Ulster Bank
Pro Tips
- Choose Reward if you can maintain £1,250/month - earns £36/year net profit
- Choose Select for no fees and no ongoing requirements
- Digital Regular Saver maxed out earns £153/year interest
- Each £1,250 deposit only needs to stay 24 hours - can withdraw and re-deposit
- Reward cashback paid to separate wallet - remember to withdraw monthly
- Can claim both NatWest and RBS bonuses if switching from different banks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying in branch or by phone (must be online/app only)
- Not logging into mobile app within 60 days
- Not keeping each individual deposit in for 24 hours
- Previously had switch bonus from NatWest or Ulster Bank (excludes you)
- For Reward: Forgetting to withdraw cashback from Reward Wallet monthly
- Switching directly from NatWest to RBS (not eligible)
Earn up to £220 in your first year with Santander Edge: claim a £100 Amazon.co.uk Gift Card when you open your account and make 30 debit card purchases within 60 days, plus earn up to £10/month cashback on household bills (£120/year). You'll also get access to an exclusive Edge Saver paying 6.00% AER on up to £4,000, and no overseas card fees. That's over £300 in cashback and rewards alone in year one.
✅ Easy
💳 £2/mo
Total Value
£120
Typical Payout
89 days
Monthly Fee
£2
Account Benefits
- Earn up to £10/month cashback on household bills (1% on Direct Debits), £3 monthly fee
- Exclusive rate of 6.00% AER/5.84% gross (variable) on up to £4,000 with Edge Saver (includes 2.50% bonus for first 12 months)
- No overseas card fees, arranged overdraft available (subject to status)
- Boosts programme (cashback/discounts at retailers)
- Paper-free digital account only
Requirements
- Sign up to TopCashback (if you don't already have an account)
- Click through from TopCashback to Santander Edge offer page
- Open a new Santander Edge current account (must not currently hold one)
- Pay in at least £500 within first month of opening
- Set up 2 active Direct Debits within first month
- Complete 30 debit card transactions within 60 days of account opening
- Cashback should track in Topcashback 7 days and become payable approximately 90 days after eligibility criteria met
- £100 Voucher will be emailed
Things to Consider
- Must be 18+ and permanently resident in the UK
- Must pay £500/month into account for ongoing eligibility
- Edge requires 2 active Direct Debits for cashback benefits
- Edge has £3/month fee but earns up to £10/month (net £7 profit maximum)
- May need proof of ID or address documentation
- Current Account Switch Guarantee available
- Eligibility checker available in app (no credit score impact)
Pro Tips
- Sign up to TopCashback first before visiting Santander's website directly
- Use debit card for everyday spending to hit 30 transactions quickly (coffee, groceries, etc.)
- Set up Direct Debits for bills you already pay to maximize the £10/month cashback
- Edge Saver maxed at £4,000 earns £240 first year (with bonus rate), £140/year after
- £3 monthly fee costs £36/year but £10/month cashback = £120/year (£84 net profit)
- Amazon Gift Card typically arrives 90-120 days after completing requirements
- Keep account active for full tracking period to ensure cashback payment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not signing up to TopCashback first before applying to Santander
- Clicking through to Santander directly instead of via TopCashback tracked link
- Not completing all 30 debit card transactions within the 60-day window
- Failing to set up 2 Direct Debits within first month (required for account eligibility)
- Not paying in £500 in first month (breaks account terms and offer eligibility)
- Closing account before cashback tracks and becomes payable (~90 days)
- Already holding an Edge account or upgrading existing Santander account (must be new customer)
Get £100 Amazon Gift Card by redirecting £1,500+ monthly income for November and December 2025. No CASS required - just update your salary details. Free account with 1% cashback (max £15/month) on groceries, petrol, and transport for 12 months. Digital-only bank with no fees.
🎯 Medium
💳 £0/mo
Total Value
£100
Typical Payout
30 days
Monthly Fee
£0
Account Benefits
- No monthly fee - completely free account
- 1% cashback for 12 months on groceries, petrol, and transport (max £15/month)
- No fees for spending abroad or ATM withdrawals (merchant fees may apply)
- Chase Saver: 2.5% AER variable (tracks base rate minus 1.5%)
- New customers: 4.5% AER boosted saver for 12 months (2.5% + 2% bonus)
- Round-up savings feature: 5% AER on rounded-up amounts for 12 months
- Up to 20 linked accounts/pots - separate account numbers, same card
- Numberless debit card for enhanced security
- Fee-free replacement cards
- 24/7 UK-based customer support
- Apple Pay and Google Pay compatible
Requirements
- Receive income payments of £1,500+ per month for two consecutive months
- First income payment must arrive by 30 November 2025
- Second income payment must arrive by 31 December 2025
- Income must be from the same party via BACS (e.g., salary or pension)
- Can use CASS to switch your salary/pension, or manually redirect income
- Account must remain open until reward is received
- Switch must complete within 14 days if using CASS
- Cannot switch joint or business accounts to Chase
Things to Consider
- NOT a traditional switch offer - must redirect £1,500/month income twice
- Reward is £100 Amazon Gift Card, not cash (10-year expiry)
- No overdraft facility available
- Cannot deposit cash or cheques (no branch access)
- Cannot send or receive international payments (UK only, GBP only)
- No CHAPS or SWIFT payments available
- Digital-only bank - app-based only, no branches
- Must use same income source for both months (e.g., same employer)
- Switch must complete in 14 days if using CASS, or may not qualify
- 1% cashback limited to specific categories only (groceries, petrol, transport)
- Cashback capped at £15 per month maximum
- Cashback benefits reduced significantly since launch (used to be all spending)
- Interest on current account balance removed in 2024
Pro Tips
- You don't need to use CASS - just redirect your salary/pension manually
- Income can be weekly, fortnightly, or monthly as long as it totals £1,500+ per month
- If switching via CASS, start early - must complete within 14 days to qualify
- Open the boosted saver account in first 31 days for 4.5% for 12 months
- Use round-up feature to earn 5% on spare change for first year
- 1% cashback works abroad too - great for holidays (no foreign transaction fees)
- Set up multiple pots (up to 20) for budgeting different expenses
- Cashback appears in separate pot - remember to transfer to main account
- Works well as a secondary account rather than main bank
- Existing Chase customers may be invited to this offer - check your app
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Thinking this is a standard switch offer - it's an income redirection offer
- Not receiving the income payments by the deadlines (30 Nov & 31 Dec 2025)
- Income not totalling £1,500 in the calendar month
- Using different income sources for the two months (must be same party)
- Closing account before reward is received (up to 30 days after 31 Dec)
- Thinking cashback applies to all spending (only groceries, petrol, transport)
- Not opening boosted saver in first 31 days and missing 4.5% rate
- Trying to switch a joint or business account (not eligible)
- Expecting branch services or cash deposits (digital only)
- Needing international payments (not supported)
Get £175 switching to First Direct's 1st Account - consistently rated highly for customer service. No monthly fee, £250 interest-free overdraft available, fee-free spending abroad, and access to a 7% Regular Saver paying up to £84/year.
✅ Easy
💳 £0/mo
Total Value
£175
Success Rate
93%
Monthly Fee
£0
Account Benefits
- Winner of Finder Customer Satisfaction Award 2024 and 2025
- 24/7 telephone and app support available 365 days a year
- £250 interest-free overdraft buffer (subject to status)
- No fees for debit card spending or ATM withdrawals abroad
- Access to Regular Saver Account at 7% AER (save £25-£300/month for 12 months)
- No monthly account fee
- Digital-first banking with mobile app, online and telephone access
Requirements
- Switch with 2+ Direct Debits or standing orders
- Deposit £1,000+ within 45 days
- Make 5+ debit card payments within 45 days
- Can't have had ANY First Direct product before
- Can't have opened HSBC account since Jan 2018
Things to Consider
- No physical branches - digital and telephone banking only
- Overdrafts above £250 charged at 39.9% EAR variable
- Does not pay in-credit interest on current account balance
- Regular Saver Account limited to £300 per month maximum deposit
- Must be new customer - not eligible if held First Direct or HSBC current account since 1 January 2018
- Requires minimum £1,000 balance transfer and 2+ active Direct Debits for switching bonus
Pro Tips
- Bonus paid on 20th of month after meeting criteria
- Get an extra bonus by applying via cashback sites (See below)
- Best customer service rating: 92% "great"
- Many get £250 0% overdraft buffer
- 7% regular saver available (£300/month max)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not having Direct Debits or standing orders on the account when switch completes
- Missing the 45-day deposit deadline
- Forgetting the 5 debit card purchases
Get £175 switching to any Nationwide current account. FlexDirect (no monthly fee) includes 5% interest, 1% cashback, and access to a 6.5% regular saver - worth over £390 in year one.
✅ Easy
💳 £0/mo
Total Value
£175
Typical Payout
10 days
Monthly Fee
£0
Account Benefits
- FlexDirect: 5% AER interest on balances up to £1,500 for 12 months
- FlexDirect: 1% cashback on debit card purchases for 12 months
- FlexAccount: No monthly account fee
- FlexPlus: Worldwide family travel insurance included
- FlexPlus: Mobile phone insurance included
- FlexPlus: UK and European breakdown cover included
- Eligible members may receive annual Fairer Share Payments
Requirements
- Switch a non-Nationwide account using CASS (must have at least 2 Direct Debits)
- Complete the full switch within 28 days
- Pay in at least £1,000 within 31 days of account opening
- Make 1 debit card payment within 31 days
- Must be your first switch offer since 2021
Things to Consider
- Must not have had a Nationwide switch offer since 2021
- Old account needs at least 2 active Direct Debits
- FlexDirect benefits (5% interest, 1% cashback) only last 12 months
- FlexPlus has £18 monthly fee
- Must manually update recurring card payments with new card details
- Arranged overdraft not automatically transferred
Pro Tips
- You can get the bonus twice: once on a sole account and once on a joint account (as long as each hasn't had the offer since 2021)
- The £1,000 can be paid in instalments or as a lump sum - your salary, funds from the switch, or transfers all count
- Recurring card payments like Netflix or Spotify count towards the debit card requirement
- You can use Apple Pay, Samsung Pay or Google Pay for the required card payment
- The bonus payment will show as 'Switching Offer' on your statement
- Joint accounts only receive one £175 payment, not one per person
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't transfer the £1,000 from another Nationwide account - it won't count
- Gambling, crypto transactions, and cash withdrawals don't count as debit card payments
- Don't forget to update recurring card payments like subscriptions with your new card details
- Make sure your old account has at least 2 Direct Debits before starting the switch
- Starting the switch doesn't count - it must complete within 28 days
How Bank Switching Works
1
Choose Your New Bank
Compare the offers above based on bonus amount, monthly fees, interest rates, and account features. Check eligibility requirements before applying.
2
Apply for Your Account
Complete the application online (takes 10-15 minutes). You'll need ID, proof of address, and details about your income. Most decisions are instant.
3
Request the Switch
Choose to use the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) during application or after opening your account. Provide your old bank details and preferred switch date.
4
CASS Does the Work
The switch completes in exactly 7 working days. All Direct Debits, standing orders, and your balance transfer automatically. Your old account closes.
5
Meet Additional Requirements
Pay in the minimum deposit (usually £1,000), make required card payments, and ensure 2+ Direct Debits transfer. Timeframes vary by bank (typically 30-45 days).
6
Receive Your Bonus
Cash appears in your account within 7-60 days after meeting all requirements. Check the specific timeline for your chosen bank in the table above.
The Current Account Switch Guarantee
Every switch is protected by the Current Account Switch Guarantee. This legally binding promise means:
7 Working Day Guarantee
Your switch will complete in exactly 7 working days from your chosen date. No delays, no exceptions.
Automatic Transfers
All Direct Debits, standing orders, and your account balance move automatically. You don't need to contact any companies or set anything up manually.
Payment Redirection
For at least 3 years after switching, any payments to your old account are redirected to your new account. The sender is also notified of your new details.
Full Protection
If anything goes wrong, you're protected. Any charges or fees caused by errors are refunded, and your credit rating won't be affected.
What transfers automatically: Account balance, Direct Debits, standing orders, salary/benefits, regular payments, and your payee list.
What you need to update manually: Recurring card payments (Netflix, gym, etc.), mobile payment apps (Apple Pay, Google Pay), and any arranged overdraft.
What you need to update manually: Recurring card payments (Netflix, gym, etc.), mobile payment apps (Apple Pay, Google Pay), and any arranged overdraft.
Should You Switch Your Main Account?
You have two options when claiming switching bonuses:
Option 1: Switch Your Main Account
Best for: People genuinely looking for a better bank with improved features, service, or benefits.
Advantages:
- Consolidates all banking in one place
- Simplifies financial management
- No need to manage multiple accounts
- Straightforward process
Consider this if: You're unhappy with your current bank, want better customer service, or prefer features offered by the new bank.
Option 2: Switch a Secondary Account
Best for: People happy with their main bank but want to try new accounts and claim bonuses.
Advantages:
- Keeps your primary banking stable
- No disruption to main financial relationships
- Lets you trial new banks without commitment
- Can claim multiple bonuses over time
- Easy to meet Direct Debit requirements
How it works: Open a second current account with your existing bank (or any bank participating in CASS). Use this account purely for switching to claim bonuses while your main banking stays untouched.
Popular secondary account option: Chase Bank lets you create multiple current accounts within their app instantly. Each account has its own sort code and account number, making it perfect for switching while keeping your main Chase account active for cashback rewards.
Meeting Switch Requirements
Deposit Requirements (Usually £1,000)
Most banks require you to pay in a minimum amount within 30-45 days of opening your account.
Important facts:
- You can make multiple deposits that add up to the total (e.g., £500 twice)
- Your salary, benefits, or transfers from other banks all count
- The money doesn't need to stay in the account permanently
- Transfers from another account at the SAME bank usually don't count
⚠️ Avoid triggering fraud checks: Don't immediately transfer money in and out to new payees. Keep funds in the account for at least 24-48 hours to ensure deposits are properly registered.
Direct Debit Requirements (Usually 2 Active)
Most bonuses require you to transfer at least 2 "active" Direct Debits via CASS. An active Direct Debit is one that has successfully collected at least one payment.
Easy ways to set up Direct Debits:
- Savings apps: Plum, Chip, Moneybox (save £1-5/month)
- Charity donations: Even £1/month counts
- Subscriptions: Existing services you already pay for
- Utility bills: Move one or two bills temporarily
Common mistakes:
- Setting up Direct Debits after the switch starts (they need to be active before)
- Confusing standing orders with Direct Debits (most banks require Direct Debits specifically)
- Not waiting for the first payment to process
Card Payment Requirements (Usually 5+ Payments)
Some banks require you to make a certain number of debit card payments within a set timeframe.
What counts:
- In-store purchases using your physical card
- Online shopping with card details
- Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay)
- Contactless payments
- Recurring card payments (Netflix, Spotify)
What doesn't count:
- Cash withdrawals from ATMs
- Gambling transactions
- Cryptocurrency purchases
- Cash-like transactions (buying currency, money orders)
- Loan or mortgage payments
Can You Switch Multiple Times?
Yes, you can switch between banks multiple times. There's no legal limit on how many times you can switch bank accounts. However, each bank has its own rules about eligibility:
Common Eligibility Rules
- New customers only: Most bonuses are for people who haven't held an account with that bank before
- Time restrictions: Some banks allow you to claim again after 3 years of being a non-customer
- Sister bank exclusions: Can't claim if you have accounts with related banks (e.g., First Direct and HSBC)
- Previous bonus limits: Some banks won't pay if you received a switching bonus from them after a certain date
Joint Account Loophole
Some banks (like Nationwide) allow you to claim the bonus twice if:
- You previously switched a sole account → you can now switch a joint account
- You previously switched a joint account → you can now switch a sole account
This means a couple could potentially earn £350 from one bank (£175 each on separate account types).
Strategic approach: After claiming one bonus and trying the bank for a few months, you're free to switch again to a different bank. Many people gradually try several banks over the course of a year or two, claiming bonuses while finding the right long-term banking partner.
Important Considerations
Credit Checks & Your Credit Score
Most banks perform a hard credit check when you apply, which:
- Appears on your credit file
- May temporarily reduce your credit score by a few points
- Stays visible on your file for 12 months
- Could affect other credit applications if you have many in a short period
⚠️ Planning a mortgage or major loan? Avoid multiple bank switches in the 6 months before applying. Lenders may view numerous credit checks as a red flag.
Overdrafts Don't Transfer
Your arranged overdraft doesn't automatically move to your new bank. You'll need to:
- Pay off any existing overdraft before switching, OR
- Apply for an overdraft with your new bank (not guaranteed), OR
- Transfer enough money to cover the overdraft after the switch
The new bank will assess your eligibility independently. You may not get the same overdraft limit as before.
Bank Families & Shared Eligibility
Some banks are part of the same group and share eligibility rules:
- HSBC Group: First Direct & HSBC
- Lloyds Banking Group: Lloyds, Halifax, Bank of Scotland
- NatWest Group: NatWest, RBS, Ulster Bank
- Virgin Money Group: Virgin Money, Clydesdale, Yorkshire Bank
If you're ineligible for one bank in a group, you're typically ineligible for all of them.
What You Need to Update Manually
CASS doesn't transfer everything. You'll need to manually update:
- Recurring card payments: Netflix, Amazon Prime, gym memberships, etc.
- Mobile payment services: Re-add your new card to Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.
- Saved payment methods: Online retailers where you've saved card details
- Any third-party apps: Budget apps, money management tools, etc.
Allow a week or two to update everything and check nothing is missed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bank has the best switching offer right now?
The best offer depends on your needs. For pure cash, Lloyds and Barclays offer up to £200. For ongoing value, Nationwide's FlexDirect gives £175 plus 5% interest and 1% cashback. For customer service, First Direct offers £175 with consistently top-rated service. Compare all offers above to find your best match.
How long does a bank switch actually take?
Exactly 7 working days from your chosen switch date. The Current Account Switch Service guarantees this timeline. Your switch completes overnight on day 7, with your old account closing and new account becoming fully active.
Can I switch if I'm overdrawn?
Yes, but you'll need to either pay off the overdraft first, or ensure your new bank approves an overdraft large enough to cover it. The debt doesn't disappear - it either transfers to the new bank (if approved) or remains with your old bank to be paid off separately.
Will I lose access to my money during the switch?
No. You can use your old account right up until day 7 of the switch, and your new account is already open and accessible. There's no gap in banking access at any point during the process.
Do I have to deposit the full £1,000 at once?
No. You can make multiple deposits that total the required amount. For example, you could deposit £500 twice, or have your £1,000+ monthly salary paid in. The key is that the total deposits meet or exceed the requirement within the specified timeframe.
What counts as an "active" Direct Debit?
A Direct Debit that has successfully collected at least one payment from your account. Simply setting one up isn't enough - it needs to have actually taken money before the switch completes. Set up Direct Debits at least a month before switching to ensure they're active.
How many times can I switch banks?
There's no legal limit on how many times you can switch. However, each bank has eligibility rules - most only pay bonuses to new customers or customers who haven't received a switching bonus from them for 3+ years. You can switch between different banks to claim their bonuses over time.
Will switching affect my credit score?
Each application involves a hard credit check that appears on your file and may temporarily lower your score by a few points. The check stays on your file for 12 months. Multiple switches in a short period could impact future credit applications, so space them out and avoid switching before applying for mortgages or loans.
When will I receive my switching bonus?
Payment times vary by bank. Some pay within 7-10 days of meeting requirements (like Nationwide and Lloyds), while others take 30-60 days (like First Direct and NatWest). Check the specific timeline in the offer table above. If your bonus hasn't arrived within the stated timeframe, contact customer service.
Can I switch away after getting my bonus?
Yes. Most banks only require you to keep the account open until the bonus is paid. After that, you're free to switch again or close the account. However, some banks have minimum holding periods or ongoing requirements for certain perks, so check the specific terms.
Related Money-Saving Guides
- Best Cashback Sites - Save £200+ annually on shopping
- Get Paid To Sites - Earn money from surveys and offers
- Investment Offers - Free shares and bonuses
- All Money Saving Guides - Complete resource library
Disclaimer: This is independent editorial content comparing bank switching offers. We may earn commission if you apply through our links, but this doesn't affect our editorial independence or the offers available to you. Always read full terms and conditions before switching. Your eligibility depends on the bank's lending criteria. Last updated: October 27, 2025