Current Account Switching Guide

Step 1 - Getting started

You can apply to open your new Explore account in-app. You can also apply for a personal or non-personal Current Account in your local branch. Our team in Open24 can schedule an appointment for you at a convenient time in a branch of your choice Find out what Current Account options (pdf, 27KB) are available.

Click here to find out what documents we'll need from you for a Current Account (The branch will advise what documents will be required if you’re opening a different account type).

Your new account will be up and running within 10 working days of the Switching Start Date.

If you’re opening a personal account we will order bank cards for your new account, help you set up telephone and internet banking and arrange any bill payment you need. Your new account will have the ability to send and receive Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) payments, should this be required.

Starting Your Switch

We will help you to select a switch Date. This is the date that the switching process between your old bank and PTSB will begin and usually at a time when there is the least activity on your account. The switching process takes no more than 10 working days to complete.

Step 2 - We'll let your old bank know you're switching

For Personal Accounts: All you have to do is sign an Account switching Form (pdf, 44KB) (you're not seeing double, we do need you to fill out two of these!) and we will send it to your old bank.

For Non Personal Accounts: Please fill out the Non Personal Account Switching Form (pdf, 62KB) and bring it to your branch when applying for your account.

Please note, on both forms above you can choose to close your old account completely or keep it open.

Step 3 - Standing Orders & Direct Debits

Your old bank will inform the companies you hold Direct Debits with of your new account details. You will also receive a copy of this list from your old bank. Please check this carefully and let us know if any changes are required. We will set the Standing Orders up on your account and let you know when your switch has completed. We also recommend that you contact all of your Direct Debit providers to ensure they have updated their records with your new account number. For contact details of most common providers, please click here. 

Step 4 - We'll help you let people know about your switch

You can inform your employer of your new account details by completing a Credit Transfer Request Form (pdf, 33 KB). You can also re-direct any other regular payments into your new account e.g. child benefit, share dividends etc. We will provide you with all the forms you need.

Step 5 - Up and running

Our switch Team will issue a Pre-switch letter to you 5 working days prior to the switch Start Date to inform you of the switch process.

Closing your old Current Account?

Here are some things you should know:

• Bank cards Once your new personal Current Account is up and running and you have your new cards, you should return your old bank card to your old bank.
• Fees and Charges Your old account should be in credit if you are closing it to ensure there are enough funds to meet any fees or charges that may be due.
• Cheques If you switch and close your old bank account, cheques drawn on that account will be returned unpaid to the presenting bank.

More information for our Non-Personal customers

• Direct Debits If you are a Direct Debit Originator, you will need to change your sponsoring bank.
• Payroll Please check your payroll arrangements and prepare for any changes that will need to be made arising from the switch.
• Documentation Changes Please check your documentation e.g. invoice documentation to ensure the Bank Identification Code (BIC) and International Bank Account Number (IBAN) for the new account are noted.

If you have any questions in relation to switching, please call our Open24 Centre on 0818 502 424 or 01 353 1212 4101. The line is open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 2pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Calls may be recorded. Or Alternatively Book an Appointment with your local branch.