Switching Bank Account to existing account.

Chomeur

The idea behind most bank account switches seems to be to do them when you open a new account. But I'd like to switch a couple of accounts to an account (with Santander) that I've had for quite a while. Can I do this? I've looked on their website but I don't see how, and emailed them to ask but they haven't replied.

Thanks

BoGoF

Don't think it's possible to do a switch. Why can't you transfer the money from the other accounts to your Santander account using online banking. If you have any direct debits on the other accounts you just arrange to have them changed......then close the old accounts?

Chomeur

BoGoF wrote: »

Don't think it's possible to do a switch. Why can't you transfer the money from the other accounts to your Santander account using online banking. If you have any direct debits on the other accounts you just arrange to have them changed......then close the old accounts?

Yes, I can do all that. It's just a bit of a faff, would be easier to use a switching service.

YorkshireBoy

See their website. Under the heading "Switching to us", the very first sentence says...

You can either switch to a new account, or one you've already got with us.

surreysaver

BoGoF wrote: »

Don't think it's possible to do a switch.

Why wouldn't it be possible? Of course it is! What would the difference be between a new and an existing account?

Chomeur

Actually their website says this:

"If you don't already hold a Santander Current Account, you can apply online, in branch. We will ask you during the application if you want to switch an account you hold elsewhere to Santander.
If you're an existing customer we can also arrange to switch a current account you hold elsewhere to your existing Santander current account. Simply visit your local branch. An appointment may need to be booked."

which suggested I would have to go into a branch and make an appointment. But I've just phoned them up and was able to do it over the phone, so no problems.

colsten

All banks, as well as Nationwide BS, allow you to switch to an existing current account. In fact, you can only switch to an existing account as if you don't already have a suitable existing account, you must first open one before you can request a switch.

It is also good practice to only ever switch to an account for which you have full online access, a debit card, a PIN and a card reader if the bank requires one. If you have one of these missing, you might find yourself with no access to your money at the end of the 7 days switch period.