Glossary · UK
What is Current Account Switch Service (CASS)?
A free UK scheme that moves your current account, including payments and payees, to a new bank within seven working days.
Full Definition
The Current Account Switch Service (CASS) is a free service, backed by most UK banks and building societies, that moves a customer's current account from one provider to another within seven working days, automatically transferring the balance, redirecting incoming and outgoing payments (salary, standing orders and Direct Debits) for at least three years, and closing the old account once the switch is complete. The customer only needs to open the new account and instruct the switch through the new bank -- CASS itself handles contacting the old bank, moving payment instructions, and notifying anyone who pays money into the old account of the new details. If a payment is nonetheless sent to the closed old account, or a payment out is missed because of the switch, the CASS Guarantee requires the banks involved to refund any resulting fees, interest or charges to the customer. CASS was launched in September 2013 to make switching current accounts faster and less risky, replacing the previous manual process where customers had to close accounts, chase payees themselves and risk missed payments during the transition, which had been identified as a major barrier to customers shopping around for a better account.