Barclays has issued a crucial update for customers hoping to claim its popular cash incentive for switching current accounts, specifically addressing those who have held accounts with the bank in the past.
Who is Eligible for the £200 Payment?
The bank is currently offering a £200 payment to new customers who switch to a Barclays Bank Account using the Current Account Switch Service. For those opting for a Premier Current Account, the incentive rises to a £400 bonus. Furthermore, the bank is promoting the opportunity to earn up to £500 by transferring ISA savings.
However, the eligibility criteria are strict. A potential customer recently queried the bank on social media, asking: "Can I get a current account switching bonus if I’ve had a Barclays account in the past (but no open account on 7 October)?"
The Critical Cut-Off Date
Barclays provided a definitive response, stating that customers are not eligible for the switching bonus if they had any open Barclays current accounts on or before the offer start date of 7 October 2025.
The bank's guidance makes it clear that this rule applies even if the account was closed before the switch request but was active on or before that specific date.
Other Key Reasons for Disqualification
Beyond the historic account rule, Barclays has listed several other conditions that will prevent customers from receiving the £200 reward. You will not qualify if:
- You have ever received a switch offer reward from Barclays for any current account in the past.
- You only hold or are applying for a Barclays Basic Bank Account.
- You do not pay at least £2,000 into your new account within 30 days of opening it.
- You fail to use the Barclays app to complete a full current account switch.
- You are opening a joint account.
- You do not complete the full switch from another provider within 30 days of requesting it.
The offer is also time-sensitive. The switch must be requested between 7 October 2025 and 27 November 2025. Applicants must be 18 or over and a UK resident.
Barclays encourages all potential switchers to review the full terms and conditions to ensure they meet all requirements before initiating the process.
