How the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) works
Quick answer: The Current Account Switch Service moves your current account, including all your direct debits, standing orders and incoming payments, to a new bank in seven working days — and comes with a guarantee that covers you if anything goes wrong.
The Current Account Switch Service moves your current account, including all your direct debits, standing orders and incoming payments, to a new bank in seven working days — and comes with a guarantee that covers you if anything goes wrong.
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Primary source: https://www.currentaccountswitch.co.uk/
What CASS actually does
CASS is run by Pay.UK and used by more than 50 banks and building societies. When you ask your new bank to switch you using CASS, they do the work — there is no form to fill in at your old bank.
Your new bank agrees a switch date with you (normally seven working days ahead). On that date all your direct debits and standing orders are moved across, and your old account is closed. Continuous payment authorities set up on a debit card (e.g. some subscriptions) are not moved automatically — you may need to update those with the merchant.
Payments sent to your old sort code and account number are redirected to your new account automatically. Pay.UK's current redirection period is at least three years from the switch date, after which payments to the old details may bounce. So salary, HMRC tax refunds, pensions and transfers from old contacts continue to reach you during that window.
The CASS guarantee
If anything goes wrong with the switch and you are out of pocket — for example a direct debit is missed and you are charged a late-payment fee — your new bank must refund the interest and charges caused by the error. This applies for as long as the redirection service is in place.
You only need to report the problem promptly and provide reasonable evidence.
What CASS does not move
Savings accounts, ISAs, mortgages, credit cards and loans are not moved by CASS — only current accounts. If you also want to switch a savings account you usually transfer it separately.
Cheque books and old paying-in books from your old bank stop working after the switch. Any pending cheques you paid in before the switch date are honoured normally.
Common questions
- Does switching damage my credit file?
- A new account application creates a hard search and a new account record, which can cause a small short-term dip. Closing an old account does not directly damage your score, but losing a long-running account can shorten your average account age — usually a minor effect.
- Can I switch if I have an overdraft?
- Most banks let you switch with an overdraft up to a certain limit, subject to credit check. If they decline the overdraft you can still switch the current account itself, but you may need to repay or arrange separate borrowing.
- How long do switching cash bonuses take to arrive?
- Each bank sets its own rules — usually 30 to 60 days after the switch completes, and only if you meet conditions like funding the account, setting up direct debits, or staying for a minimum period.