Thinking of moving banks - is it a nuisance?

[ToldItToTheBees]

There are lots of incentives on offer these days, so that's appealing, but what about all my direct debits etc? Is it going to be a horrific mess?

I'm also interested in any recommendations of good banks that don't get mired in politically charged twitter spats.

I did it a few years ago and it was very easy. The bank you decide on do everything for you and everything from your old bank is transferred over. You don't have to do anything, they keep you informed during the whole process.
I am with First Direct and have found them really good. My son is with Starling and they get really good reviews.

We moved our current account to Starling (their CEO is a woman) recently and it couldn't have been easier. Not a single problem, and the banking app is super easy to use.

Changed to Santander recently because of the £140 incentive and they handled everything, very easy. Only problem I had was accessing the savings account I had with Barclays once I no longer had a current account. Had to call them to transfer the money but not really any hassle.

Halifax, I assume?

I'm a bit annoyed with Nationwide as well for similar reasons, but I can't move my account because I'm no longer UK resident.

Think the only thing you have to do now is tell your employer that you've changed banks and what your new details are. The new bank does everything else.

I have an account with Starling, although my main account is still with Smile, so my DDs go out of that (and salary goes in). Joint account for bills with DH with Nationwide. Starling is really good, I am not keen on switching completely but definitely recommend. Smile used to be better although I rarely need their customer service, so don't have any issues with them - day to day the account works and I have the app and use the website. Nationwide are fine except for their ridiculously cumbersome bank transfer process and the fact that you can't pay in cheques online (if I get one I pay it into the Starling account).

I change banks all the time for free money - it’s easy

never understand why Everyone doesn’t do it tbh - FREE CASH??? Hahah

It takes everything (direct debits and stuff) over to the new account

No, switching is very easy now.

It should be straightforward but only if you're moving to a bank that's good with customer service. Lots of useless ones out there so be careful.

Otherwise you just pass on your old account details and they manage the transfer, including direct debits.

Oh this is good to hear.

I had hoped it would be this easy, and with a wide variety of banks, too.

Yep, really easy. Also another vote for Starling. I have both my personal and business account with them and they're great.

Think First Direct are offering GBP150 or near. They change everything for you, no issue whatsoever.