how does switching affect my credit score?

Avoirdupois

Having just learnt of the insane salary boost that may go to the Nationwide group's ceo, I've determined to work harder to get what I can back.  A good place to start might be to get as many of the sweeteners offered by banks to switch accounts.  But then I read to my annoyance that by doing so, my credit score could be adversely affected. Can you, dear reader, explain what the rules are and perhaps point out any gotchas I should be aware of. I'm retired & don't need to borrow money.

la531983

In which case why would you even be worried?

The "credit score" isnt seen by any lender regardless. 

Exodi

Please note that in some of the larger banks, the CEO's are compensated considerably more. If you're making this decision on principles, make sure you don't move to HSBC/FirstDirect/Barclays

https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/money-finance/high-pay-financial-sector

Nonetheless, credit score doesn't mean anything (it's a gimic only viewable by consumers) - banks will be looking at your credit report, history, default record, etc.

So to answer your question, switching bank will likely affect your credit score (as some banks do a hard credit check, regardless of whether you require an overdraft) but the affect will only be seen by you and the affect on your score will be temporary (likely 6 months).

Also, to ask the obvious, if you're "retired & don't need to borrow money", why do you care about your credit score?