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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
James Rodger & Sophie Buchan

Martin Lewis urges people to check if they can get cash to switch bank accounts

Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis has been giving out some much-needed advice over the last few years when it comes to getting the best deals.

And now in recent times, the expert has also been helping people who are struggling amid the cost of living crisis.

Taking to his newsletter in a bid to help others, Martin Lewis urged people to check whether they could be eligible by making money should they switch bank accounts.

READ MORE: Nationwide Building Society confirms interest rates rises across saving accounts

In his latest update, according to Birmingham Live, he revealed that some banks are offering money to switch with the money guru explaining: "One bit of relief is that six banks are currently willing to pay you legal bribes to switch to them, including the biggest upfront cash we've seen for years.

"To bag the free cash you usually need to pass a not-too-harsh credit check and then use the bank's seven working-day switching service. This auto-moves your balance, standing orders and direct debits for you. Plus it'll close your old account, and ensures any payments to it are auto-forwarded. Most say the process is easy & hassle-free to do."

Nationwide's Flex Direct account was identified by the MSE guru as the top for up-front cash. "FREE £200, plus newbies get 5% interest on up to £1,500 for a year," he wrote.

"That interest's worth around £75. Many also get a year's 0% overdraft, credit score depending. And with its strong customer service rating, this is our overall top pick. You'll need to switch 2+ direct debits across, though."

Another example is First Direct, which offers £175. Mr Lewis added: "First Direct has been top or near-top of every customer service poll we've ever run."

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