- Download statements and note important payees
- Check bonus exclusions and deadlines
- Confirm the account and switch type are eligible
Choose the account, not only the cash
Compare monthly fees, overdraft terms, app quality, branch access, savings rates and ongoing rewards. A bonus is temporary; the account may become your daily banking home.
Read every condition
Offers may require a full switch through the Current Account Switch Service, a minimum pay-in, active Direct Debits, app login or debit-card transactions. They often exclude people who received a previous incentive from the bank or its wider banking group. Dates and definitions matter.
Prepare your old account
Download statements you may need for tax, expenses or proof of payment. Record recurring card subscriptions that are not Direct Debits, save payee information and move anything that should not be part of the switch. Consider the timing of important payments.
Know what CASS does
Under the Current Account Switch Service, the new bank manages the process. Regular payments and the balance are transferred, the old account is closed for a full switch, and payments sent to the old account are redirected. The service says the switch takes seven working days and is covered by its guarantee.
Create an evidence trail
Save the offer terms on the day you apply, your application confirmation, requested switch date and proof of qualifying actions. Maintain a checklist with the final deadline and expected payment date. If the bonus is late, contact the new bank with specific evidence.
Avoid over-optimising
Repeated switching creates admin and can affect how providers view applications. Keep a dependable main account if that suits you, space activity sensibly and never sacrifice access to essential money for a one-off reward.