Switching to Starling: how the switch works
Important: This guide provides general information, not personalised financial advice. Financial products, rates and eligibility rules can change, so check the provider’s current terms before applying. You can check a firm’s details on the FCA Register.
FSCS protects eligible deposits up to £120,000 per person, per authorised institution.
Quick answer
You can switch to Starling with the Current Account Switch Service (CASS). Starling says the switch is done in seven working days, covered by the Switch Guarantee, and anything sent to your old account is redirected for three years.
We didn’t see a cash switching incentive on Starling’s site on 3 October 2026, so the reasons to move are the account itself rather than a bonus.
Who it’s for
- People who want to move their salary, Direct Debits and standing orders to an app-based bank
- Anyone happy for their old account to be closed as part of a full switch
Who should skip it
These are general points to weigh up, not advice. You may want to look elsewhere if:
- You want a switch bonus — compare banks that pay one in our switch bonus table
- You rely on an overdraft with your current bank — arrange alternatives before you close it
- You need branch access
The catch
A full CASS switch closes your old account. If you want to keep it, a partial switch or moving payments by hand may suit you better.
How the switch works
Open a Starling personal current account first, then start the switch in the app and choose a switch date.
Your balance, payees, Direct Debits and standing orders move across, and your old account is closed. Payments sent to the old account are redirected for three years.
Read Starling’s switching page before you start.
These go straight to each provider’s own website. They aren’t referral links and we don’t earn from them.
FAQs
How long does switching to Starling take?
Starling says seven working days using the Current Account Switch Service.
Will my Direct Debits move automatically?
Yes, in a full CASS switch your Direct Debits and standing orders are moved for you.
Does Starling pay me to switch?
We didn’t see a switch payment on Starling’s site on 3 October 2026.
Does switching affect my credit score?
Opening a new account can involve a credit check. See our credit score basics.
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