Many people stay with the same bank for years out of inertia, assuming that switching is complicated or risky. In reality, switching your current account in the UK has been made straightforward by the Current Account Switch Service (CASS), which handles the process on your behalf and comes with a formal guarantee.
This guide explains how switching works, what is transferred automatically, and what to watch out for.
What is the Current Account Switch Service?
The Current Account Switch Service (CASS) is a free service that makes switching your current account simpler and safer. It is backed by participating banks and building societies and comes with the Current Account Switch Guarantee, which protects you if anything goes wrong during the switch.
Under the guarantee, if any payments are made to or from your old account in error after the switch, your bank must refund any charges or interest you incur as a result. Incoming payments — such as your salary — are automatically redirected from your old account to your new one for at least three years after the switch date.
What gets transferred automatically?
When you switch using CASS, the following are automatically moved to your new account:
- Direct debits (bills, subscriptions, loan repayments etc.)
- Standing orders (regular payments you have set up)
- Incoming payments (salary, benefits, tax credits etc.)
The switch takes seven working days to complete from the date you choose. During this period, the service coordinates with your old and new banks to transfer everything.
What is not transferred automatically?
Your account balance transfers automatically. However, some things are not covered by the switch service:
- Linked savings accounts or ISAs (these stay with your old bank)
- Overdraft arrangements (your new bank will set its own terms)
- Online banking logins and payment references (you will need to update these with any companies that require your account number for reference)
- Debit card details stored with online retailers (you will need to update these with the new card details)
Step-by-step: how to switch
Step 1: Choose your new bank
Research the options available to you. Consider factors such as monthly fees (or lack thereof), overdraft terms if you use one, app quality, switching incentives, and whether you want a traditional or digital bank. Use eligibility checkers before applying — these use soft searches that do not affect your credit score.
Step 2: Apply to open the new account
Apply to open an account with your chosen bank. Most banks allow you to apply online. You will typically need to provide identification (such as a passport or driving licence) and proof of address. Some banks carry out a credit check.
Step 3: Request the switch
When opening your new account, or shortly after, request that the bank initiates a switch using CASS. Choose your switch date — this must be at least seven working days in the future, to allow time for the service to complete. Make sure any final payments (such as rent) clear your old account before the switch date if needed.
Step 4: Wait for the switch to complete
You do not need to do anything during the seven-day switch process. The service handles the transfer of direct debits, standing orders and incoming payments. Your old account is closed on the switch date.
Step 5: Update payment details where needed
After the switch, update your debit card details with any online retailers or subscription services that charge your card directly rather than by direct debit. Check your new account statements in the weeks after switching to confirm everything has transferred correctly.
Switching incentives
Several UK banks offer cash incentives for switching via CASS — sometimes £100, £150, £200 or more. These are real cash bonuses paid into your account, though they typically come with conditions such as:
- Paying in a minimum amount each month (often £1,000 to £1,500)
- Setting up a minimum number of direct debits
- Closing your old account as part of the switch
Read the terms of any switching offer carefully to ensure you meet the conditions. Switching offers are typically available to new customers only, though some banks allow you to switch again after a set period.
Can you switch back?
Yes. There is no limit on how many times you can switch, and no penalty for switching away from a bank you have just joined. However, switching incentives are typically only available to new customers, so you may not be able to claim an offer if you have held an account with that bank recently.