How to switch business bank accounts without disrupting your operations

Switching business bank accounts can feel risky, but with the right process, it doesn’t have to be.

The Current Account Switch Service makes it easier for eligible UK businesses to move everything over, from standing orders to incoming and outgoing payments.

No lost transactions, no need to update payees manually.

This guide breaks down how to switch with confidence without pausing operations or chasing paperwork.

What is the current account switch service (CASS)?

The Current Account Switch Service (CASS) is a free service that helps UK businesses move their bank account from one provider to another without the hassle. It’s designed to take care of all the admin for you.

That includes switching direct debits, standing orders, incoming payments and even payee details. Most eligible business bank accounts are covered.

And it’s all backed by the Current Account Switch Guarantee, which means if anything goes wrong during the switch, your new bank will put it right.

How the business account switch works

Switching your business bank account might sound like a pain, but the actual process is surprisingly smooth. Once you've picked your new provider and opened an account, you'll agree on a switch date. That’s when everything behind the scenes kicks off.

Your old account stays open until the switch is fully complete. You won’t be locked out, and there’s no rush to move everything manually. Direct debits, standing orders, and incoming payments are all transferred automatically. Even the regular payees in your online banking get copied over.

If someone sends money to your old account by mistake, no problem. For 36 months, anything that lands in the old account will be redirected straight into the new one. That means you’ve got time to update your details with clients, suppliers or any third-party providers without worrying about missed payments or awkward follow-ups.

What gets moved (and what doesn’t)

Most of the important stuff moves over automatically when you switch. That includes your direct debits, standing orders, payees and any scheduled payments. You don’t need to log in and re-enter them all manually, they just land in your new account, ready to go.

Some things still need a little attention. If you’ve connected third party providers like accounting software or payroll tools, you might need to log in and reconnect them using your new account details. It’s usually quick, but worth flagging with your team.

A few things don’t transfer at all. Business credit cards, savings accounts and anything outside of your current account won’t be included in the switch. But the good news is you won’t need to email every supplier or customer to tell them you’ve moved, payments sent to your old account get redirected automatically.

Questions to ask before switching your business account

Before you hit go on a business account switch, it’s worth double-checking a few things to avoid surprises.

First, does your new provider support a full CASS switch? Not every account does, so it’s good to be sure. Then check your current account details are they up to date and accurate? If something’s off, it could slow things down.

Think about any third-party providers you’ve connected to your old bank. You might need to reconnect tools like accounting software or payment services once the switch is complete.

Also consider who in your team needs access to online banking during the switch. You won’t lose access entirely, but it helps to plan ahead especially if you’ve got future dated payments or direct debits coming up. A little prep now can save a lot of admin later.

How to prepare for your switch

A smooth switch starts with a bit of prep. Pick a switch date that avoids your busiest periods or bank holidays. You want breathing room, not a log of transactions piling up mid-process.

It’s also a good idea to download any key account data from your old bank, especially if you use it for accounting or reporting. Take a minute to review your standing orders and direct debits so you know what’s due to move across.

Double-check your registered business address and account details too. If anything’s out of date, get it sorted before you start. And once the switch is in motion, it’s best to hold off on big changes or one-off transactions until everything’s confirmed on the new account.

How long does a business bank account switch take?

Most full switches using the Current Account Switch Service take just seven working days from start to finish. That includes moving your payments, direct debits, and closing down the old account.

The whole process is backed by the Current Account Switch Guarantee, so if anything doesn’t go to plan, your new bank has to identify what went wrong and fix it. You’ll get a confirmation once the switch is complete, usually by email or post, so you’ll know exactly when to start using your new account.

In the meantime, your old account stays active, so there’s no risk of being locked out or losing access while everything’s in motion.

Why switching doesn’t mean starting over

Switching your business account doesn’t wipe the slate clean, in a good way. Your banking history moves with you, so there’s no need to open a new company or re-register your business details.

Once the switch is complete, your old account is closed for you. You don’t have to chase anything up or manage both at the same time.

And the best part? You can start using your new account as soon as it’s confirmed. Everything you need is in place, and the switch just works quietly in the background.

FAQs about switching business bank accounts

Can I switch if I have active direct debits and payments?

Yes, they’re all automatically redirected as part of the switch.

Do I need to tell every customer and supplier about the new account?

No, payments to your old account are forwarded for 36 months under the switch guarantee.

Will I lose access to my online banking during the switch?

Your old account stays active until the new one is ready, no downtime.

What if I have accounting software connected to my old account?

You may need to reconnect your software (like Xero or Sage) once the switch is complete.

Can I switch more than one account at once?

Each switch is treated individually, but your new provider may help coordinate multiple accounts.

Is it really free?

Yes, the CASS switch is a free service for eligible UK business banking customers.

Final Thoughts

Switching business bank accounts used to mean hassle. But thanks to the Current Account Switch Service, it’s now quick, secure and backed by a guarantee. You don’t have to start from scratch or worry about missing payments.

Choose a provider that supports a full switch, set your date, and the rest takes care of itself.

If you want to learn more on business account switching see How to switch your business bank account (and why).

Switch with confidence, stay in control

The Allica Business Rewards Account is a business current account that supports full CASS switching, so you can move your business banking over, with zero hassle. No missed payments, no paperwork, no downtime.

You’ll also get up to 1.5% cashback* on eligible card spend, competitive instant access rates and support from a dedicated relationship manager to help you get up and running fast.

Make your next move simple, open your Business Current Account today.

* Cashback is variable based on eligibility and spend. See a full list of limits and fees here.

Links were live and information was correct at the time of writing the article.

Disclaimer: This is information – not financial advice or recommendation

The content and materials featured in this article are for your information and education only, and are not intended to take into consideration any particular recipients’ financial situation. The product details and interest rates referred to are correct at the time of writing.

The information does not constitute financial advice or recommendation and should not be considered as such. Allica Bank will not accept any liability for any loss, including without limitation to, any loss of profit, which may arise directly or indirectly from use of or reliance on such information.