Below are some answers to frequently asked questions. However, if you have any specific concerns or queries regarding the switching process that are not outlined below please contact your new bank or building society.
Common questions
What happens to payments that people send to my old account?
What happens to payments that people send to my old account?
The Current Account Switch Service will redirect payments to your new account. Each time an electronic payment is redirected an automatic message is sent back to the originator advising them of the new account details so they can update their records. Some organisations may contact you directly to confirm your details have changed.
What happens if there is a mistake or unnecessary delay in the current account switching process?
What happens if there is a mistake or unnecessary delay in the current account switching process?
The Current Account Switch Service is backed by the Current Account Switch Guarantee. This guarantees that any charges or interest incurred on your old or new account, as a result of a failure in the switching process will be refunded when you bring this to your new bank or building society’s attention.
Will the Current Account Switch Service automatically transfer new payment arrangements if I set them up at my old bank within 7 working days of the switch date agreed with my new bank?
Will the Current Account Switch Service automatically transfer new payment arrangements if I set them up at my old bank within 7 working days of the switch date agreed with my new bank?
No. The Current Account Switch Service will take care of all payment arrangements at your old bank up until 7 working days before your agreed switch date. If you want to set up new payment arrangements during the 7 working day period leading up to your switch date you must do this on your new account.
Support by subject
All about eligibility
Can I switch my current account?
Can I switch my current account?
Yes, you can use the service to switch accounts from and to any of the participating banks and building societies.
Can I switch my savings account?
Can I switch my savings account?
No, we can’t switch savings accounts or ISAs.
I have a joint account. Can I switch my current account?
I have a joint account. Can I switch my current account?
Yes, as long as both parties agree to the switch and you are switching to another joint account. It is not possible to use the service to switch a joint account to a sole account.
Can I switch my current account if I am overdrawn?
Can I switch my current account if I am overdrawn?
Yes. You will need to agree any overdraft facilities you require with your new bank or building society. Alternatively, they may be able to provide facilities to help you pay off any existing overdraft you may have, subject to their normal lending criteria. If you do not come to an agreement with your new bank you must make separate arrangements to repay your existing overdraft before you switch.
Is the Current Account Switch Guarantee the same for all banks?
Is the Current Account Switch Guarantee the same for all banks?
Yes, all banks and building societies that display the Current Account Switch Guarantee Trustmark will follow the same switching process and must offer the same guarantees. There are over 40 participating banks and building societies in the UK and you can see themhere.
What if my bank is not signed up to the Current Account Switch Guarantee?
What if my bank is not signed up to the Current Account Switch Guarantee?
If your old or new bank is not signed up with us, then you won't be able to use the Current Account Switch Service. You should talk to your new bank to find out how to switch your account.
The switching process
Who provides the guarantee?
Who provides the guarantee?
As a participant of the Current Account Switch Service, your new bank or building society guarantees your switching process. Pay.UK, the home of Bacs Payments, Faster Payments and Cheque Payments, manage and oversee the service.
Can I choose my switch date?
Can I choose my switch date?
Yes, you can choose and agree a switch date with your new bank or building society. Just make sure you allow seven working days for the switch to take place and that your chosen date isn't a Saturday, Sunday or Bank Holiday.
Are account opening and account switching all part of the same process?
Are account opening and account switching all part of the same process?
Account opening and account switching are separate processes. Your new bank or building society has to carry out ‘know your customer’ security checks as part of their account opening process. Once these are complete to the satisfaction of the new bank or building society, you can choose and agree your switch date.
When does the switch begin?
When does the switch begin?
Once you have applied for and opened your new account, you can choose the switch date to suit you. The date of your switch must be at least seven working days from this point.
Will the Current Account Switch Service automatically transfer new payment arrangements if I set them up at my old bank within 7 working days of the switch date agreed with my new bank?
Will the Current Account Switch Service automatically transfer new payment arrangements if I set them up at my old bank within 7 working days of the switch date agreed with my new bank?
No. The Current Account Switch Service will take care of all payment arrangements at your old bank up until 7 working days before your agreed switch date. If you want to set up new payment arrangements during the 7 working day period leading up to your switch date you must do this on your new account.
Do I have to close my old account?
Do I have to close my old account?
If you use the Current Account Switch Service to switch, your old bank will close your old account. This ensures that any payments made to your old account are automatically redirected to your new account.
If you would like to keep your old account open then you are free to do so, but you won’t be able to use the Current Account Switch Service to do this, and you will not be covered by the Guarantee. Speak to your bank and they can help explain your options.
What happens to payments that people send to my old account?
What happens to payments that people send to my old account?
All incoming and outgoing payments will be automatically redirected to your new account. Each time a payment is redirected, an automatic message is sent back to the originator advising them of your new account details so they can update their records. Some organisations may contact you directly to confirm your details have changed. If you do not want your new details to be given to someone who sends a one-off payment, contact your new bank.
When will the money in my old account be transferred to my new account?
When will the money in my old account be transferred to my new account?
You will be able to access the funds in your old account up to and until your switch date, when they will be transferred to your new account.
If the switch is delayed for any reason, can I still use my new account?
If the switch is delayed for any reason, can I still use my new account?
Yes, if the new account is open and you have money in it (or an overdraft agreed) then you can use it.
What happens to any debit card transactions or Direct Debits that I have asked my old bank to stop?
What happens to any debit card transactions or Direct Debits that I have asked my old bank to stop?
The Current Account Switch Service will not interfere with this process and any debit card or Direct Debit transactions that you have asked your bank to stop should remain stopped after your switch.
What will happen to any refunds applied to my old debit card after my old account is closed?
What will happen to any refunds applied to my old debit card after my old account is closed?
Any refunds which are applied to your old debit card after switching your account will be sent to your new bank. If you are expecting a refund and have not received it, please contact your new bank.
What if I change my mind?
What if I change my mind?
You can cancel your switch up to seven working days before your switch date. If you do want to cancel, speak to your new bank, who can guide you through this process.
My new bank says I need to update my personal details with my old bank. Why?
My new bank says I need to update my personal details with my old bank. Why?
If the details you provide to your new bank do not match those held by your old bank you may be asked to contact your old bank and update them. Examples include if you have got married and not changed your maiden name to your married name, or if you have moved house and not told your old bank your new address. When you are updating your details with your old bank you do not have to tell them that you will be switching to a new bank.
I’ve allowed third parties (such as financial comparison websites, money management apps and payment services) access to my financial data. Will this be switched too?
I’ve allowed third parties (such as financial comparison websites, money management apps and payment services) access to my financial data. Will this be switched too?
No, you’ll need to cancel and re-authorise these with your new account details. You would need to contact the third party providers directly to discuss arranging set up at your new bank. If your old account is still open, your bank will be able to tell you which third parties you’ve given permission to make payments on your behalf, and/ or access your financial data.
Not all Third Party Providers services are supported by all banks and building societies, so there’s a chance that the Third Party Providers on your old account may not be able to access your new account.Please check your new provider’s terms and conditions for more information about Third Party Providers.
My new bank doesn’t allow me to give my financial data to third parties. What will happen to third-party authorisations on my old account?
My new bank doesn’t allow me to give my financial data to third parties. What will happen to third-party authorisations on my old account?
Unfortunately, you’ll no longer be able to use these services and any payments you have set up through them will end. If you’re not sure whether you have any third-party authorisations set up on your old account, check with your old bank before you close the account.
What happens to my old bank statements after I switch?
What happens to my old bank statements after I switch?
Your transaction history on your old account won’t be transferred through the Current Account Switch Service. If you’d like your old statements get in touch with your old bank.
Your rights
What happens if there is a mistake or unnecessary delay in the switching process?
What happens if there is a mistake or unnecessary delay in the switching process?
In the unlikely event that there are any issues in starting the switch, we will inform you before your switch date. If anything goes wrong, we will ensure that any charges or interest incurred on your old and/or new account as a result of the error will be refunded. It is for your new bank to decide whether you receive compensation above and beyond the refund.
Will switching my current account affect my credit rating?
Will switching my current account affect my credit rating?
When you open a new current account, the bank or building society may run a credit score which could affect your credit rating. The credit scoring impact of opening a new account can last for up to six months. Opening multiple accounts within a six-month period will mean it will take longer for your credit score to return to normal.
When using the Current Account Switch Service for a full switch, your original account will be closed which can in turn result in a positive contribution to your credit score.
In the unlikely event that during a switch you encounter any problems with payments (such as standing orders or direct debits), your new bank or building society will correct them and ensure your credit rating is not affected.
Can I be sure that all payments made to my old account are redirected?
Can I be sure that all payments made to my old account are redirected?
Yes, any payments made to your old account will automatically be redirected to your new account. Each time a payment is redirected, an automatic message is sent back to the originator advising them of your new account details so they can update their records. Some organisations may contact you directly to confirm your details have changed. Let your new bank know if you do not want them to provide your details to anyone.
If something goes wrong
My switch is not going as promised. Who do I contact?
My switch is not going as promised. Who do I contact?
If there’s a problem with your switch you should contact the bank or building society you are switching to. If you've got any questions about the switching process, take a look at ourhow to switchpage.
My Direct Debit hasn’t moved across after I’ve switched. What do I do?
My Direct Debit hasn’t moved across after I’ve switched. What do I do?
If you're missing a Direct Debit and your switch is complete, contact your new bank. Remember all payments are covered by the Current Account Switch Guarantee and any charges or interest incurred on your old or new account as a result of the error will be refunded.
Who do I tell if I think the Current Account Switch Service does not meet my requirements? (Please note: if you have a complaint about the way the service has been delivered by your new bank please contact them directly.)
Who do I tell if I think the Current Account Switch Service does not meet my requirements? (Please note: if you have a complaint about the way the service has been delivered by your new bank please contact them directly.)
If you think you have found a flaw, or missing feature, in the service design, or in the way that Pay.UK operates the service, please contact:
By email:Complete theContact usform, including a summary of the issue that you would like to raise.
By post:CASS Advisor, Pay.UK Limited, 2 Thomas More Square, London, E1W 1YN. Enclosing a summary of the issue that you would like to raise.
Pay.UK will acknowledge receipt within 2 working days of receiving the email / letter and for more complex questions provide a detailed (initial) response within 10 working days.
How the Current Account Switch Service works Find out about the stress-free way to switch Current Accounts | Before you Switch Our top three tips to help you prepare before you switch |
Transferring your payments Our quick guide to what happens to your payments when you switch | |
Common questions
What happens to payments that are sent to my old business account?
What happens to payments that are sent to my old business account?
The Current Account Switch Service will redirect payments to your new account. Each time an electronic payment is redirected an automatic message is sent back to the originator advising them of the new account details so they can update their records. Some organisations may contact you directly to confirm your details have changed.
What happens if there is a mistake or unnecessary delay in the current account switching process?
What happens if there is a mistake or unnecessary delay in the current account switching process?
The Current Account Switch Service is backed by the Current Account Switch Guarantee. This guarantees that any charges or interest incurred on your old or new account, as a result of a failure in the switching process will be refunded when you bring this to your new bank or building society’s attention.
Will the Current Account Switch Service automatically transfer new payment arrangements if I set them up at my old bank within 7 working days of the switch date agreed with my new bank?
Will the Current Account Switch Service automatically transfer new payment arrangements if I set them up at my old bank within 7 working days of the switch date agreed with my new bank?
No. The Current Account Switch Service will take care of all payment arrangements at your old bank up until 7 working days before your agreed switch date. If you want to set up new payment arrangements during the 7 working day period leading up to your switch date you must do this on your new account.
Support by subject
All about eligibility
Can I switch my business account?
Can I switch my business account?
Yes, so long as you have an annual turnover that does not exceed £6.5 million and you employ fewer than 50 people. If you are a small trust with a net asset value of less than £6.5 million you can also use the service. If you are still unsure whether you qualify, speak to your new bank or building society.
Can I switch my savings account?
Can I switch my savings account?
No, we can’t switch savings accounts or ISAs.
Can I switch my business account if I am overdrawn?
Can I switch my business account if I am overdrawn?
Yes. You will need to agree any overdraft facilities you require with your new bank or building society. Alternatively, they may be able to provide facilities to help you pay off any existing overdraft you may have, subject to their normal lending criteria. If you do not come to an agreement with your new bank you must make separate arrangements to repay your existing overdraft before you switch.
Is the Current Account Switch Guarantee the same for all banks?
Is the Current Account Switch Guarantee the same for all banks?
Yes, all banks and building societies that display the Current Account Switch Guarantee Trustmark will follow the same switching process and must offer the same guarantees. There are over 40 participating banks and building societies in the UK and you can see themhere.
What if my bank is not signed up to the Current Account Switch Guarantee?
What if my bank is not signed up to the Current Account Switch Guarantee?
If your old or new bank is not signed up with us, then you won't be able to use the Current Account Switch Service. You should talk to your new bank to find out how to switch your account.
The switching process
Who provides the guarantee?
Who provides the guarantee?
As a participant of the Current Account Switch Service, your new bank or building society guarantees your switching process. Pay.UK, the home of Bacs Payments, Faster Payments and Cheque Payments, manage and oversee the service.
Can I choose my switch date?
Can I choose my switch date?
Yes, you can choose and agree a switch date with your new bank or building society. Just make sure you allow seven working days for the switch to take place and that your chosen date isn't a Saturday, Sunday or Bank Holiday.
Are account opening and account switching all part of the same process?
Are account opening and account switching all part of the same process?
Account opening and account switching are separate processes. Your new bank or building society has to carry out ‘know your customer’ security checks as part of their account opening
process. Once these are complete to the satisfaction of the new bank or building society, you can choose and agree your switch date.
When does the switch begin?
When does the switch begin?
Once you have applied for and opened your new account, you can choose the switch date to suit you. The date of your switch must be at least seven working days from this point.
Will the Current Account Switch Service automatically transfer new payment arrangements if I set them up at my old bank within 7 working days of the switch date agreed with my new bank?
Will the Current Account Switch Service automatically transfer new payment arrangements if I set them up at my old bank within 7 working days of the switch date agreed with my new bank?
No. The Current Account Switch Service will take care of all payment arrangements at your old bank up until 7 working days before your agreed switch date. If you want to set up new payment arrangements during the 7 working day period leading up to your switch date you must do this on your new account.
Do I have to close my old account?
Do I have to close my old account?
If you use the Current Account Switch Service to switch, your old bank will close your old account. This ensures that any payments made to your old account are automatically redirected to your new account.
If you would like to keep your old account open then you are free to do so, but you won’t be able to use the Current Account Switch Service to do this, and you will not be covered by the Guarantee. Speak to your bank and they can help explain your options.
What happens to payments that people send to my old account?
What happens to payments that people send to my old account?
All incoming and outgoing payments will be automatically redirected to your new account. Each time a payment is redirected, an automatic message is sent back to the originator advising them of your new account details so they can update their records. Some organisations may contact you directly to confirm your details have changed. If you do not want your new details to be given to someone who sends a one-off payment, contact your new bank.
When will the money in my old account be transferred to my new account?
When will the money in my old account be transferred to my new account?
You will be able to access the funds in your old account up to and until your switch date, when they will be transferred to your new account.
If the switch is delayed for any reason, can I still use my new account?
If the switch is delayed for any reason, can I still use my new account?
Yes, if the new account is open and you have money in it (or an overdraft agreed) then you can use it.
What happens to any debit card transactions or Direct Debits that I have asked my old bank to stop?
What happens to any debit card transactions or Direct Debits that I have asked my old bank to stop?
The Current Account Switch Service will not interfere with this process and any debit card or Direct Debit transactions that you have asked your bank to stop should remain stopped after your switch.
What will happen to any refunds applied to my old debit card after my old account is closed?
What will happen to any refunds applied to my old debit card after my old account is closed?
Any refunds which are applied to your old debit card after switching your account will be sent to your new bank. If you are expecting a refund and have not received it, please contact your new bank.
What if I change my mind?
What if I change my mind?
You can cancel your switch up to seven working days before your switch date. If you do want to cancel, speak to your new bank, who can guide you through this process.
My new bank says I need to update my personal details with my old bank. Why?
My new bank says I need to update my personal details with my old bank. Why?
If the details you provide to your new bank do not match those held by your old bank you may be asked to contact your old bank and update them. Examples include if you have got married and not changed your maiden name to your married name, or if you have moved house and not told your old bank your new address. When you are updating your details with your old bank you do not have to tell them that you will be switching to a new bank.
My new bank says my business details do not match those held with my old bank. Do I need to update them?
My new bank says my business details do not match those held with my old bank. Do I need to update them?
Yes, you need to update them, but you do not need to tell your bank that you are switching to a new bank. Examples include if you have changed your address and not told your old bank.
I’ve allowed third parties (such as financial comparison websites, money management apps and payment services) access to my financial data. Will this be switched too?
I’ve allowed third parties (such as financial comparison websites, money management apps and payment services) access to my financial data. Will this be switched too?
No, you’ll need to cancel and re-authorise these with your new account details. You would need to contact the third party providers directly to discuss arranging set up at your new bank. If your old account is still open, your bank will be able to tell you which third parties you’ve given permission to make payments on your behalf, and/ or access your financial data.
Not all Third Party Providers services are supported by all banks and building societies, so there’s a chance that the Third Party Providers on your old account may not be able to access your new account.Please check your new provider’s terms and conditions for more information about Third Party Providers.
My new bank doesn’t allow me to give my financial data to third parties. What will happen to third-party authorisations on my old account?
My new bank doesn’t allow me to give my financial data to third parties. What will happen to third-party authorisations on my old account?
Unfortunately, you’ll no longer be able to use these services and any payments you have set up through them will end. If you’re not sure whether you have any third-party authorisations set up on your old account, check with your old bank before you close the account.
What happens to my old bank statements after I switch?
What happens to my old bank statements after I switch?
Your transaction history on your old account won’t be transferred through the Current Account Switch Service. If you’d like your old statements get in touch with your old bank.
Your rights
What happens if there is a mistake or unnecessary delay in the switching process?
What happens if there is a mistake or unnecessary delay in the switching process?
In the unlikely event that there are any issues in starting the switch, we will inform you before your switch date. If anything goes wrong, we will ensure that any charges or interest incurred on your old and/or new account as a result of the error will be refunded. It is for your new bank to decide whether you receive compensation above and beyond the refund.
Will switching my current account affect my credit rating?
Will switching my current account affect my credit rating?
When you open a new current account, the bank or building society may run a credit score which could affect your credit rating. The credit scoring impact of opening a new account can last for up to six months. Opening multiple accounts within a six-month period will mean it will take longer for your credit score to return to normal.
When using the Current Account Switch Service for a full switch, your original account will be closed which can in turn result in a positive contribution to your credit score.
In the unlikely event that during a switch you encounter any problems with payments (such as standing orders or direct debits), your new bank or building society will correct them and ensure your credit rating is not affected.
Can I be sure that all payments made to my old account are redirected?
Can I be sure that all payments made to my old account are redirected?
Yes, any payments made to your old account will automatically be redirected to your new account. Each time a payment is redirected, an automatic message is sent back to the originator advising them of your new account details so they can update their records. Some organisations may contact you directly to confirm your details have changed. Let your new bank know if you do not want them to provide your details to anyone.
If something goes wrong
My switch is not going as promised. Who do I contact?
My switch is not going as promised. Who do I contact?
If there’s a problem with your switch you should contact the bank or building society you are switching to. If you've got any questions about the switching process, take a look at ourhow to switchpage.
My Direct Debit hasn’t moved across after I’ve switched. What do I do?
My Direct Debit hasn’t moved across after I’ve switched. What do I do?
If you're missing a Direct Debit and your switch is complete, contact your new bank. Remember all payments are covered by the Current Account Switch Guarantee and any charges or interest incurred on your old or new account as a result of the error will be refunded.
Who do I tell if I think the Current Account Switch Service does not meet my requirements? (Please note: if you have a complaint about the way the service has been delivered by your new bank please contact them directly).
Who do I tell if I think the Current Account Switch Service does not meet my requirements? (Please note: if you have a complaint about the way the service has been delivered by your new bank please contact them directly).
If you think you have found a flaw, or missing feature, in the service design, or in the way that Pay.UK operates the service, please contact:
By email:Complete theContact usform, including a summary of the issue that you would like to raise.
By post:CASS Advisor, Pay.UK Limited, 2 Thomas More Square, London, E1W 1YN. Enclosing a summary of the issue that you would like to raise.
Pay.UK will acknowledge receipt within 2 working days of receiving the email / letter and for more complex questions provide a detailed (initial) response within 10 working days.
How the Current Account Switch Service works Find out about the stress-free way to switch Current Accounts | Before you Switch Our top three tips to help you prepare before you switch |
Transferring your payments Our quick guide to what happens to your payments when you switch | How to switch business bank accounts Switching business accounts couldn’t be easier |
