Frustration over Santander current account switch

[Deleted User]

I already have a Santander 123 current account, and want to make the most of the switching offer of £160 from an old dud current account from another provider. However, as an existing customer, you have to go into branch to do so, rather than apply online. Firstly trying to actually get hold of anyone by phone is very difficult. Secondly, their 'user friendly' branch locator and appointment page is very difficult to locate and use. The first appointment I can get is a month away, possibly when the offer has ended. I can only assume they make it more difficult for existing customers as they already have you as a customer, and they would just have to give you the £160.

k_man

Another option is to open a second account with Santander, and switch your external account into that as part of the opening process.
This avoids the need to visit a branch, or call.

eskbanker

bexoxo60 said:

I already have a Santander 123 current account, and want to make the most of the switching offer of £160 from an old dud current account from another provider. However, as an existing customer, you have to go into branch to do so, rather than apply online. Firstly trying to actually get hold of anyone by phone is very difficult. Secondly, their 'user friendly' branch locator and appointment page is very difficult to locate and use. The first appointment I can get is a month away, possibly when the offer has ended. I can only assume they make it more difficult for existing customers as they already have you as a customer, and they would just have to give you the £160.

A switching offer last year had a similar stipulation about needing to go to branch to switch into an existing account, but doing so by phoning their switching team was possible then, despite this route being unpublicised, no guarantees that it'll work this time but may be worth a try?

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/78603209/#Comment_78603209

[Deleted User]

I rang the Switching Team number and she was fine. She then put me through to the main Switching number, and after being on hold for over half hour gave up. I've now opened a new account with Santander and started the switch process. At least it means I have a spare account for my next switch offer. Thanks to you both.