Does switching bank affect your credit score?
Short answer: switching your current account usually has only a small, short-lived effect on your credit file — and for many people it makes no noticeable difference at all.
The switch itself doesn't affect your score. What can leave a mark is opening the new account, because most banks run a credit check when you apply.
What gets checked when you switch
- Opening the new account: most banks run a credit check. If the account comes with an overdraft, this is often a 'hard' search that other lenders can see.
- The switch service moving your payments: this is not a credit application and doesn't appear as one.
- Closing the old account: this is part of a full switch and isn't a negative mark in itself.
How big is the effect?
A single hard search typically has a small effect that fades over time. Searches stay visible on your file for around 12 months, but their influence usually drops well before that.
Where it matters more is several applications close together. Lots of hard searches in a short period can make lenders cautious, so if you're chasing multiple switch bonuses, spacing them out is sensible.
When to hold off
If you're about to apply for a mortgage, a car finance deal or another big loan, it's usually wise to avoid new account applications in the months before. Lenders look closely at recent activity on your file.
Keeping the impact low
- 1Check your credit file for free before applying, so you know your starting point.
- 2Use a bank's eligibility checker if it offers one — these often use a soft search that other lenders can't see.
- 3Space out switches rather than applying for several at once.
- 4Decline an overdraft if you don't need one, where the bank lets you.
- 5Keep your direct debits running and your new account in good order — a well-run account doesn't hurt your file.
An important caveat
Every bank and credit reference agency works slightly differently, and this page is general information rather than financial advice. Check each bank's terms before applying.
Common questions
- Does the Current Account Switch Service do a credit check?
- No. The switch service only moves your payments and balance. Any credit check comes from the new bank when you apply for the account.
- How long does a credit search stay on my file?
- Hard searches usually remain visible for around 12 months, though their effect on lenders' decisions tends to fade sooner.
- Can switching improve my credit score?
- Not directly. But running a current account well over time — no missed payments, no unarranged overdraft — is a positive sign on your file.
Live offers by bank
Each bank page shows the current bonus, who qualifies, the switch timeline and how to switch. Amounts are refreshed automatically every Monday.