Santander current accounts
If you’re looking for a different bank account, Santander has several options, from everyday accounts to rewards accounts with multiple perks.
Who is Santander?
Santander UK is a major high street bank serving over 14 million customers. It was established in 2010 after Abbey National, Alliance & Leicester, and Bradford & Bingley were rebranded under the Spanish banking giant Banco Santander.
Offering a wide range of services, Santander provides current accounts, savings, mortgages, loans, credit cards, and business banking.
What types of current accounts does Santander offer?
Santander offers a range of current accounts from basic no-frills bank accounts to rewards accounts that come with a monthly fee. These include:
Everyday Current Account. A simple and straightforward account with no monthly fee, and no fees for using Santander cash machines when you travel. Enjoy the flexibility of an optional overdraft and no minimum monthly funding requirements, making everyday banking hassle-free
Santander Edge Current Account. Earn cashback on selected household bills, supermarket spending, and travel costs. Benefit from an exclusive savings account with competitive rates. Simply fund your account with £500 each month and set up two active direct debits. No foreign transaction fees on debit card use. £3 monthly fee applies
Santander Edge Up Current Account. Enjoy cashback on household bills, supermarket purchases, and travel, plus interest on balances up to £25,000. To qualify, deposit £1,500 monthly and set up two direct debits. Use your debit card abroad without extra charges. £5 monthly fee applies
Santander Edge Student Current Account. Designed for students, this account comes with a free 16-25 Railcard for four if years and a £1,500 interest-free overdraft for the first three years, increasing thereafter (subject to approval). To keep it active, deposit at least £500 every four months
1|2|3 Mini Current Account. Helping young people learn money management, this account rewards savers with interest on balances at certain thresholds. Choose between a contactless debit card or a cash card, making it easy to manage spending and savings
Basic Current Account. If you have a poor credit history, are new to the UK, or have been declined for other accounts, this no-frills account could be a solution. It provides essential banking services without overdraft facilities
Carer’s Card Account. Give up to two carers access to a separate debit card account for everyday spending on your behalf. Whether for shopping or cash withdrawals, this account ensures controlled access to funds while keeping your other accounts secure
What rewards can I get with Santander?
With a Santander current account, you can enjoy a range of rewards to make your money work harder.
The Santander Edge Up account gives you the chance to earn 1% cashback (up to £15 a month) on selected household bills when you pay by direct debit, plus 1% cashback (up to £15 a month) on spending at supermarkets and travel costs when using your debit card.
The Edge Up account also offers 3% interest on balances up to £25,000. You can also enjoy fee-free debit card use abroad and access to Santander Boosts, which offers extra perks.
What are Santander Boosts?
A free rewards service offering cashback, vouchers, prize draws, and personalised deals.
Available to Santander current account customers, it provides exclusive discounts and money-saving opportunities tailored to your spending habits.
Simply activate offers through online or mobile banking and start earning rewards when you shop with participating retailers.
Can I switch to a Santander account?
Yes, you can switch to a Santander current account using the Current Account Switch Service (CASS). The process is free, takes just seven working days, and moves your balance, direct debits, and standing orders automatically.
Your old account will be closed, and payments sent to your previous account will be redirected. Some Santander accounts may offer cash incentives for switching, but eligibility criteria apply.
What overdraft do I get with a Santander current account?
Current account holders can apply for an arranged overdraft, with approval subject to eligibility. There are no interest-free buffers on Santander accounts, with the exception of the student account.
Here students receive an interest-free overdraft of £1,500 for the first three years of their studies, which could rise to £2,000 if studies are extended to five years.
What fees and charges come with Santander accounts?
While the everyday and basic Santander current accounts are free, the Santander Edge account has a £3 a month fee and the Santander Edge Up account a £5 a month fee.
There are also fees and charges common with other current accounts, such as interest rates on arranged overdrafts or sending same-day payments and money outside of the UK.
Is Santander regulated?
Yes, Santander UK is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), ensuring it follows strict banking rules.
Eligible deposits are also protected up to £85,000 per person under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), keeping your money safe in case the bank fails.
How do I open an account with Santander?
Opening a current account with Santander in the UK is a straightforward process. Here's how to go about it...
First, choose the account that best suits your needs, whether it’s the Everyday Current Account, Santander Edge or Edge Up, or a student account
Once you’ve decided, you can apply online, in a branch, or via the Santander mobile app
To apply, you’ll need to provide proof of identity (such as a passport or driving licence) and proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement)
If you’re switching from another UK bank, Santander offers the Current Account Switch Service, which transfers your balance, direct debits, and standing orders within seven working days
Once approved, you’ll receive your account details and debit card in the post. You can then register for online and mobile banking to manage your account easily. If you need help, Santander’s customer service team is available online or in-branch
Why you should compare current accounts with MoneySuperMarket
Choosing the right current account is easier with MoneySuperMarket.
Whether you want an interest-free overdraft, a cashback account, low-cost banking, or a chance to earn interest on your balance, we help you find the best option.
Plus, you’ll see any introductory offers and switching incentives that could save you money.