How to switch your bank account and earn £175

Switching your current account might sound like a hassle—but it can be one of the quickest and easiest ways to earn up to £175 tax-free. Thanks to the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) and some generous bank incentives, moving your money has never been simpler.

Whether you’re looking for better customer service, lower fees, or just free cash, here’s everything you need to know to switch—and pocket that bonus.

What is the Current Account Switch Service (CASS)?

CASS is a free, government-backed scheme that guarantees your current account will be fully switched to a new provider within 7 working days. It includes:

• Automatic transfer of all direct debits and standing orders
• Redirection of payments from your old account for 3 years
• No risk—your old account will be closed only after everything moves over successfully

Which Banks Are Paying to Switch in July 2025?

These are some of the top bank switch offers available right now (amounts and conditions may vary, so check each bank’s site for full T&Cs):

Bank	Switch Bonus	Key Requirements	Link
First Direct	£175	Pay in £1,000+ and switch using CASS	Join Now (affiliate)
Lloyds Bank	£175	Apply online, switch using CASS, pay in £1,500/month	Apply Here (affiliate)
NatWest / RBS	£175	Use mobile app, pay in £1,250+, log in once	Get Started (affiliate)
Santander Edge	£175 + cashback	Set up direct debits and pay in monthly salary	Switch Now (affiliate)

These offers can change monthly—subscribe to our Money Alerts Newsletter to stay up to date.

How to Switch Your Bank in 5 Simple Steps

1. Check Eligibility

Each bank will require different:

• Minimum monthly pay-ins (e.g. £1,000–£1,500)
• Number of direct debits (usually 2)
• Timeframe for completing the switch (typically 30 days)

2. Choose Your New Bank

Compare benefits like:

• Welcome bonus
• Cashback on bills
• Interest rates
• Mobile app experience

You can use our Compare Bank Accounts Tool to help choose the right one.

3. Apply for the New Account

Apply online or via the bank’s mobile app. Most banks run a soft credit check.

4. Initiate the Switch via CASS

During the application, opt to switch via CASS. Provide your old bank details. The new bank takes care of the rest.

5. Meet the Bonus Criteria

This often includes:

• Paying in a set amount
• Setting up direct debits
• Logging into online or mobile banking

Once you meet the criteria, the bonus usually arrives within 7–60 days.

Pro Tips Before You Switch

• Don’t close your old account manually — let the new bank handle it via CASS
• You can open a spare current account just to switch (keeping your main account untouched)
• Track your switching activity—some bonuses are limited to once per customer or per year
• Use it for couple’s cashback – partners can switch individually or jointly for double rewards

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. If you switch just twice a year and make £150–£175 each time, that’s an easy £300+ in free cash. No risk. No tax. Just smart money management.

Ready to Switch?

We’ve rounded up the best switching offers on our Top UK Bank Account Offers page. Use our simple comparison tool and let your money work harder for you.

Final Thought?

Banks are competing for your business—and you can benefit. Don’t let loyalty cost you money. Switching accounts can be safe, fast, and profitable.

Take 10 minutes today and earn £175. Smart money moves start here.