Bank Account Offer: If you are looking for a smart way to boost your finances, a bank account offer could be exactly what you need right now. With household expenses continuing to rise in 2026, this is a rare chance to claim up to £310 simply by switching your current account. That is not a scam or a gimmick. It is a real, time-sensitive deal offered by several UK banks to attract new customers. The catch? You need to follow the instructions carefully to get the reward.
In this blog, we will explore how the bank account offer works, who qualifies, and what steps you must take to make sure you actually receive the cash. It is easier than most people think, but only if you pay attention to the details. We will walk you through every part of the process so you can make a confident decision.
Bank Account Offer – What You Need to Know
The bank account offer available right now is not your typical discount or loyalty scheme. It is a cash incentive that banks provide when you open a new current account or switch from another bank using the official switching service. The £310 offer is made up of a base reward and, in some cases, extra bonuses for meeting certain conditions like using the account regularly or setting up direct debits. Unlike government benefits, this money is yours to keep once you qualify. It is a win-win situation: you get a financial boost, and the bank gets a new customer who is likely to stay. But the reward is only paid if all the terms are met correctly, which is where most people miss out.
Overview Table of the £310 Bank Account Offer
| Key Information | Details |
| Offer Amount | £310 |
| Who Is Eligible | UK residents aged 18 or over |
| Account Type Required | New current account or full switch from another UK bank |
| Reward Paid When | Usually within 30 to 90 days after meeting conditions |
| Switching Required | Yes, through official Current Account Switch Service |
| Direct Debits Needed | Typically 2 or more active direct debits |
| Minimum Monthly Deposit | Often required (varies by bank, e.g., £1000+) |
| Not Eligible If | Existing customers or prior bonus recipients from the same bank |
| Effect on Benefits | Usually not affected unless it pushes total savings over a threshold |
| Risk Level | Low if instructions are followed carefully |
What the £310 bank account offer is
The £310 offer is a genuine incentive paid by banks to new customers who switch their current account. This is not a loan and you do not need to pay it back. It is designed to encourage people to change where they bank. The payment usually comes in one or two stages and lands directly in your account after all required steps are completed. These include completing the switch using the official service, moving over direct debits, depositing money, and sometimes making card payments. The reward is not automatic just for opening an account, so it is important to follow every instruction provided by the bank.
Why banks offer cash incentives
Banks offer cash deals like this to increase their customer base and to build long-term relationships. Getting a new customer to switch banks can be difficult, so offering a cash bonus helps draw attention. These incentives usually show up during competitive times when banks are trying to outperform each other. While it may cost the bank a few hundred pounds, they make that back if you use their account for years to come. For customers, it is a simple way to get rewarded for making a switch they might have already been considering.
Who may be eligible for the £310
To qualify for this bank account offer, you must be at least 18 years old and live in the UK. You also need to be opening a new current account or switching from another UK bank. Most banks require that the switch be completed using the official switching service, which moves your balance, direct debits, and standing orders. Some banks exclude people who already have an account with them or who have received a switching bonus in the past. Meeting all the conditions is the key to making sure you get paid.
Is the £310 paid automatically
No, it is not. This is where many people make a mistake. Opening an account alone does not qualify you for the cash. You need to complete a full switch, move over direct debits, use the account actively, and follow the deposit rules. Every step matters. If one part is missed or delayed, the bank may withhold the payment. Most banks clearly list the requirements in their terms and conditions. Reading and following them carefully will help ensure that you do not miss out.
What “account switching” usually means
When a bank account offer requires a switch, it means using the official Current Account Switch Service. This process transfers all your payments, including direct debits and standing orders, and closes your old account. It is usually completed within seven working days. The process is designed to be simple and safe, but it only qualifies for the offer if the switch is complete and all direct debits are moved correctly. Failing to use the switching service may make you ineligible for the reward.
Common conditions attached to the offer
Although each bank has its own set of rules, there are some common conditions across most offers. You may be asked to deposit a certain amount each month (for example, £1000 or more), set up two or more active direct debits, and use your debit card for everyday purchases. You might also be required to stay with the bank for a minimum period. Everything must be done within a deadline, which can range from a few weeks to a few months after account opening. Missing any part of the agreement can result in losing the reward.
How quickly the £310 is paid
Once all steps are completed, banks typically pay the reward within 30 to 90 days. The exact timing depends on the bank and how quickly you meet the requirements. Some banks will send a message or confirmation before the money is paid, while others will deposit the funds without prior notice. If you think you have done everything correctly but do not receive the money, you should contact the bank with evidence of your activity.
Is the £310 taxable
For most people, this type of bank account offer is not taxable. If the account is for personal use, and the bonus is a one-time payment, you usually do not need to declare it as income. However, if you open multiple accounts to receive several bonuses or use the account for business purposes, different tax rules may apply. If you are unsure, it is always a good idea to check the latest guidance or speak with a tax advisor.
Does receiving the £310 affect benefits
In general, this payment does not affect your benefits. It is considered a one-time income and does not count toward ongoing earnings. However, if the money increases your savings above the threshold for certain means-tested benefits, it could affect your eligibility. Always consider how the bonus fits into your overall financial situation and check the rules that apply to your specific benefit type.
FAQs
1. Can I claim the offer more than once?
No, most banks only allow you to claim the offer once. If you have already received a switching bonus from the same bank before, you are usually not eligible again.
2. Do joint accounts qualify for the £310 offer?
Some banks allow joint accounts to qualify, but in many cases, only one person can claim the reward. It is best to check the specific rules for each bank.
3. What happens if I cancel the switch halfway through?
If you cancel the switch or do not complete all the steps, you will not receive the payment. You must complete the switch through the official service for it to count.
4. Is it safe to switch banks using the Current Account Switch Service?
Yes, the service is designed to be secure and is backed by the UK banking industry. It guarantees that all payments will be redirected and your old account will be closed.
5. Can I switch banks just for the cash and leave afterward?
Technically yes, but many banks require you to keep the account open for a few months. If you close the account too early, you may lose the reward or be disqualified.