Current accounts: How to switch
Contact your old bank for a list of direct debits and standing orders
Find an account
Have a look at our Best Buys to pick the account that will be the best fit for your needs and then contact the bank to get the ball rolling and the account opened.
Tie up loose ends
Pick a date for moving your money from your old account to your new one. Ask your new bank to contact your old bank for a list of your direct debits and standing orders – your old bank has to send over this list within three days of it being requested. You'll need to confirm which payments you want to be moved.
All you have to do now is give your new account details to your employer, pension provider and anyone else who regularly pays money into your account. Your new bank will provide standard forms for this, so there shouldn't be any hiccups.
Transfer time
The transfer takes place. It can take up to four weeks to move all of your standing orders and direct debits so it’s wise to keep some money in both accounts until the transfer is complete. Alternatively, some banks offer a special overdraft facility to cover this intermediary period.
Complete the switch
Once all your regular payments have been switched, your new bank will ask the old bank to cancel obsolete direct debits and standing orders. Your new bank will then tell you when the switch has been completed.
If anything goes wrong with the switch and you end up out of pocket as a result, you will get your money back under the terms of the Banking Code.
Reap the benefits
All that remains now is for you to enjoy receiving better service, higher interest rates and lower charges from your new Best Buy bank or building society.