Thinking of changing banks? Read our guide on how to Switch your Bank Account
Switching banks may seem like a lot of work, but with Skibbereen Credit Union's guide to Switching your Bank Account, you only need to worry about which bank has the lowest fees. Our guide has all the steps you need to follow to ensure a hassle-free transfer of your savings to a new bank with lower fees and better savings rates.
Step 1: Pick a new bank
Research the different current account options available to you. There are several websites available which give advice on how to choose an account and compare the fees and charges of various financial institutions(bonkers.ie, consumerhelp.ie).
Once you have decided on a bank, you can contact them directly, either online or in person. Your new bank may provide you with a switching pack, which is available in the branch or on their website. A switching pack contains information on the current accounts that the bank offers and a guide on how to switch accounts.
Step 2: Pick a switching date
Your new bank will help you to decide on a date to begin the switching process. It is important to pick a date during the month with the least activity on your account. Try to avoid dates where money is automatically paid in or out of your account.
At this point, you will also need to decide if you want to keep your old account open or to close it. You can keep your old account open if you are not sure that all payment details have been changed to your new account. However, if you keep your old account open, you will be liable for any charges or interest rates that apply.
Step 3: Complete an account transfer form
You will need to complete an account transfer form for your new bank. This involves providing the details of your old bank account and your new bank account, and gives authorisation for your old bank to supply your new bank with details of your direct debits and standing orders, to help make the switching process smoother. The balance on your old account will be also transferred to your new account.
Your old bank will provide you and your new bank with a copy of your direct debit and standing order details. You can use this to ensure that all payments from your account have been transferred correctly.
You must give your new account details to anyone that pays money into your bank account, e.g. wages. Your new bank cannot do this for you, but may give you information on what details you need to provide.
Step 4: Switch!
Your new account will be up and running within 10 working days of the switching date you selected. If you left your old account open, keep an eye on it for the next 30 days. If there has been no activity on it during this time, i.e. automated payments, then you can have the remaining balance transferred to your new account before closing the old one.
When you do close your old account, avoid using your old cheque books and bank cards after you receive your new ones. Cut your old bank cards in half and return them along with your old cheque books to your old bank. You will receive a refund of Government Duty on any unused cheques.
Remember that banks aren't the only financial institutions around. Skibbereen Credit Union already offers most of the services that a bank does, (including direct debits and online banking) and we are committed to providing a friendly and professional service to all our members. You can visit our website for more information on membership or call into one of our offices in Skibbereen, Schull or Drimoleague to talk about becoming a member.
