UK banks regularly offer cash to people who move a current account to them. A switch bonus can be one of the better ways to make extra money because you are being rewarded for changing a service you already use, rather than spending money on something unnecessary.

The catch is that every bank sets different rules. You may need to move Direct Debits, pay in a certain amount, use the debit card or complete the switch before a deadline. This guide explains the process without trying to maintain another long list of offers that will quickly become outdated.

Compare the latest UK bank switch offers →

How does a bank switch work?

Most switching bonuses require you to use the Current Account Switch Service, usually shortened to CASS. You apply for a new current account and ask the new bank to move your old account on an agreed date.

The service normally completes the switch in seven working days. Your old current account closes, and its balance, Direct Debits, standing orders and regular incoming payments move to the new account. Payments accidentally sent to the old account are redirected.

The Current Account Switch Guarantee also says that charges or interest caused by a problem with the switch will be refunded once the bank is told about it.

How to get the offer

    What should you check before switching banks?

    Read the bank’s own offer page and terms before applying. A comparison page helps you find deals, but the bank decides whether you qualify and whether the bonus is paid.

    Check these points carefully:

    • Whether you must be a completely new customer
    • Whether a previous bonus from the bank or its wider banking group excludes you
    • The final date for applying or starting the switch
    • How many active Direct Debits must move
    • How much money must be paid into the new account
    • Whether debit card payments or an app login are required
    • The deadline for completing every task
    • Any monthly account fee or minimum income requirement
    • When the bonus should be paid

    Take a screenshot or save a copy of the terms on the day you apply. Offers can be withdrawn, and it is easier to query a missing payment when you have the rules that applied to your application.

    Common bank switch bonus requirements

    A full account switch

    A full CASS switch normally closes the old account. Simply opening another bank account or moving money manually will not qualify when the offer asks for a full switch.

    Active Direct Debits

    Some offers require two or more Direct Debits to move with the old account. A Direct Debit is not the same as a standing order or a recurring card payment. Set them up early enough to become active before beginning the switch.

    Do not create unnecessary subscriptions just for a bonus. Existing household bills, memberships or small regular charity donations may be more useful, provided they meet the bank’s definition of active.

    Paying money into the account

    A bank may ask you to pay in a total amount within a set number of days. Read the wording carefully. The money may not need to remain there, but transfers between accounts at the same bank might not count.

    Debit card payments

    Some bonuses require a number of purchases with the new debit card. Small things you would buy anyway are enough when the terms do not specify a minimum purchase. Do not spend extra just to reach the target.

    Previous customer rules

    Banks often exclude people who previously received a bonus from the same bank or another brand in its group. These rules can refer to accounts held several years ago, so do not assume that closing an old account makes you eligible again.

    Do you have to switch your main bank account?

    Not always. Some people open a separate current account and later use that as the account being switched. This can keep their salary, important bills and long-standing main account away from the process.

    However, the second account still needs to meet every offer condition. If the bonus requires active Direct Debits to move, an empty account will not qualify. Opening extra accounts can also involve identity checks and a credit search.

    Switching your main account can make more sense when the new bank genuinely offers better service, interest, budgeting tools or lower fees. A one-off bonus is useful, but you will live with the account after the switch.

    Bank switching mistakes to avoid

    • Starting before the required Direct Debits are active
    • Confusing a standing order with a Direct Debit
    • Missing a card payment, app login or pay-in requirement
    • Assuming you qualify after receiving an older bonus from the same banking group
    • Forgetting that the old account will close after a full switch
    • Expecting an existing overdraft limit to move automatically
    • Forgetting to update recurring card payments and mobile wallets
    • Switching an account linked to something important without checking the effect
    • Applying only for the reward without checking the account fee or long-term features

    Recurring payments taken from your card number, such as some streaming or shopping subscriptions, do not move like Direct Debits. Update them when the new card arrives.

    If you use an overdraft, speak to the new bank before switching. A new overdraft is not guaranteed, and debt on the old account does not disappear.

    Is bank switching free money?

    It is better described as a reward for completing a financial task. The cash can be good value, but it is not completely effortless. You must be organised, qualify for the account and meet every condition on time.

    Never borrow, enter an overdraft or pay for an unsuitable account just to receive a bonus. The underlying current account should still make sense for you.

    Bank switch offer questions

    How long does a bank switch take?
    A switch using CASS normally takes seven working days from the agreed start date. Opening the new account and receiving the bonus can take longer.
    Will my salary and bills move automatically?
    CASS moves regular incoming payments, Direct Debits and standing orders. Check the completed switch carefully and update recurring card payments, saved cards and mobile wallets yourself.
    Will switching affect my credit score?
    The switch service itself is not a credit application, but opening a new current account may involve a credit search, especially when an overdraft is available. Several applications close together can affect future lending decisions.
    Can I keep my old bank account open?
    Not when an offer requires a full CASS switch. The old account normally closes on the switch date. A partial switch may leave it open, but partial switches often do not qualify for cash bonuses.
    Can I receive more than one switch bonus?
    It may be possible over time, but each bank has its own previous-customer and banking-group exclusions. Check every offer separately and do not assume that a method used for one bank will work for another.
    Which bank has the best switch offer today?
    The best offer changes frequently and depends on eligibility, fees and the work required. Use Scrimpr’s live bank switch table, then confirm everything on the chosen bank’s official website.

    Sources and last check

    This guide was checked on 17 July 2026 using the official Current Account Switch Service, MoneyHelper banking guidance and Scrimpr’s current bank switch comparison.

    Offer values, deadlines and requirements change regularly. Scrimpr maintains the live comparison, but the chosen bank’s own terms are always the final source before applying.