Adulting · Finance

Make some momney by switching bank account

I must admit until recently I have been with the same bank for decades – I’ve had the same account since I was a very small child! These days, loyalty to banks doesn’t pay so there’s no point in staying with your current bank if you can get a better service elsewhere. Due to competition in the finance industry, banks are now offering great incentives to switch to them. I recently switched my old Barclays account to Santander and got £200 for doing it! Here’s a bit of information about switching your bank account, as well as how to do it.

Current Account Switching Service

In the UK, there is a service called the Current Account Switch Service which makes it easy for consumers to switch their account to a new bank. This service was introduced in 2013 by the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) to simplify the process of switching bank accounts and ensure that it is done in a secure and efficient manner.

When using the current account switching service, customers can switch their account to a new bank in just 7 working days. The service takes care of closing the old account, transferring money, direct debits and standing orders to the new account, and providing confirmation when the switch is complete.

To use the current account switching service, customers must choose a new bank account and provide the new bank with the necessary identification and proof of address. The new bank will then provide the customer with a switching pack, which includes a switch guarantee that promises that all direct debits and standing orders will be transferred to the new account and any errors will be refunded.

The current account switching service also provides a redirection service for a period of up to 36 months, meaning that if any payments are sent to the closed account, they will be automatically forwarded to the new account. In addition to the switch service, many UK banks also offer switching bonuses to customers who move their account to their institution, this could include cash rewards, gift cards or other incentives.

Incentives for switching

Some banks offers as much as £200 if you switch to them using the current account switching service. The amount of the bonus and the terms and conditions for receiving it can vary depending on the bank and the type of account being opened.

To get the bonus you usually have to set up at least two direct debits or standing orders, and pay in a certain amount each month. In some cases, you also have to register and sign into their online banking. Be sure to check these terms carefully before switching to make sure that you can meet them, otherwise you may miss out on your incentive bonus. It’s worth noting that before you switch bank account, it’s important to compare the fees, interest rates, and other terms and conditions of the new account to ensure that it is the best option for your needs.

To switch your bank account to a new bank or financial institution, you will typically need to provide proof of identification and proof of address, as well as complete any necessary paperwork. You will also need to inform your current bank of your intention to switch, and close any existing accounts you have with them. In most instances you will also require your old account’s debit card details if you were issued with one when you opened the account.

Switching your bank account can take up to 7 working days, and during this time, you may need to make arrangements for your direct debits and standing orders. A good idea is to try and pick a week in the middle of the month, when there are less active direct debits and standing orders set up.

How to switch your bank account and claim a bonus

Switching is pretty easy, and can be summed up in just a few steps:

  1. Choose a new bank account: Compare different bank accounts and choose one that meets your needs.
  2. Gather the necessary information: You will need to provide your name, address, date of birth, and account information for your existing account and the account you want to switch to.
  3. Initiate the switch: Contact your new bank and ask to switch your account using the Current Account Switch Service. Your new bank will then provide you with a switching pack and a switch date.
  4. Close your old account: On the switch date, your new bank will arrange for your direct debits and standing orders to be transferred to your new account. You should also inform your employer of your new account details and close your old account.
  5. Monitor the progress: After the switch date, your new bank will keep you informed of the progress of the switch. You should also check that all your direct debits and standing orders have been transferred successfully.
  6. Confirm the switch: After the switch, you will receive confirmation that the switch has been completed.

And that’s all there is to it! By switching your current account to a different bank you can bag an easy pot of cash and hopefully you’ll be as pleased with your new bank as I am!

Adulting

Valentine’s cards – how to choose and what to write

Valentine’s Day is a special occasion to express love and appreciation to your loved one, and choosing the right card can make all the difference. With the big day just around the corner, I thought I’d share some advice on choosing the right Valentine’s card for your loved one, as well as some tips on what to write inside.

Choosing the right Valentine’s card

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which Valentine’s card to choose. Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect card for your Valentine:

  1. Consider your relationship: The first thing to consider is the nature of your relationship. If you are in a new relationship, a cute and funny card may be more appropriate. If you are in a long-term relationship, a romantic and heartfelt card may be more suitable.
  2. Think about your partner’s interests: Consider your partner’s interests when choosing a card. If they have a favourite animal, a card with a cute animal illustration may be perfect. If they are a fan of a certain TV show or movie, a card with a reference to it may be a great choice.
  3. Choose a card that suits your partner’s personality: Think about your partner’s personality when choosing a card. If they are a romantic person, a card with a heartfelt message may be perfect. If they have a sense of humour, a funny card may be more suitable.
  4. Decide on the type of card: There are different types of Valentine’s cards, such as traditional paper cards, e-cards, and pop-up cards. Consider which type of card your partner would prefer, and choose one that suits their personality and interests.
  5. Personalise it: Personalising the card with a special message or a photo of the two of you together can make the card even more meaningful.
  6. Be thoughtful: The Valentine’s card is not just about the card itself, it’s also about the thought and effort you put into choosing it. It’s the thought that counts, so put some thought and consideration into it to show your partner how much you care.

Choosing the right Valentine’s Day card for your loved one is just as important as what you write inside. It’s not just about the card itself, but also about the thought and effort you put into choosing it. Take the time to consider your relationship, your partner’s interests and personality, and the type of card they would prefer. With a little thought and consideration, you can choose the perfect card to express your love and appreciation. Then all you have to do is decide what to write inside.

What to write in a Valentine’s card

A heartfelt Valentine’s card can be the perfect way to show your feelings and create a lasting memory. But what should you write in a Valentine’s card? Here are some tips to help you craft the perfect message for your loved one.

  1. Express your feelings: The most important thing to include in a Valentine’s Day card is how you feel about the person. Tell them how much they mean to you, how much you love them, and how much they make your life better.
  2. Share a memory: Recalling a special moment or memory that you share with your loved one will make the card more personal and meaningful. It could be a special date, a trip, or a moment that you will never forget.
  3. Be specific: Instead of using generic phrases, try to be specific about what you love about the person. For example, instead of saying “you’re beautiful,” mention a specific feature that you love, such as their sparkling eyes or their infectious laugh.
  4. Use humour: A little bit of humour can lighten the mood and make the card more fun. You can include a funny inside joke, a silly pun or a witty comment.
  5. Add a promise: Include a promise in your card, something that you are looking forward to doing together in the future. It could be a trip, a special event, or a promise to always be there for each other.
  6. End with a heartfelt closing: End your message with a heartfelt closing, such as “I love you,” “Forever yours,” or “Thinking of you always.”

Ultimately, the most important thing is to be genuine and heartfelt, The words you choose should come from the heart and be a true reflection of your feelings. A Valentine’s card is a great opportunity to express your love and appreciation, so make the most of it because Valentine’s day only comes once each year.