Many of us have been with same bank for years, potentially missing out on hundreds of pounds that rivals are offering us to move to them.<\/p>\n
Whether it's loyalty, laziness, or fear it'll be a faff that keeps us from switching, banks are competing to change our mind.<\/p>\n
More than five banks are currently offering incentives to switch – with the largest bonus \u00a3220.<\/p>\n
Plus, if you've got savings, you could get a better interest rate – and therefore a greater return on your money.<\/p>\n
Almost two thirds of British savers have been with their bank for more than a decade, new research from Hargreaves Lansdown suggests.<\/p>\n
Its survey, of 3,000 British adults in August, found 34% have moved their money in the last 12 months.<\/p>\n
It estimates staying put costs British savers around \u00a312bn in missed interest every year, based on analysis of Financial Conduct Authority data.<\/p>\n
Simon Belsham, Hargreaves Lansdown's chief client officer, says doing nothing might be easy but "often leads to poor returns".<\/p>\n
"Millions leave their cash with the same bank by default and that inertia is worth a fortune to banks, while costing British savers billions of pounds a year.<\/p>\n
"Savers clearly care about rates: when they move their money, the overwhelming reason is to secure a better return.<\/p>\n
"What holds them back is the effort of repeatedly finding, opening and juggling different accounts."<\/p>\n
How to change bank, energy or broadband provider and save money<\/p>\n
People are "incredibly loyal" to their bank which is why competitors need to offer sweeteners, says Sarah Coles, head of personal finance at AJ Bell.<\/p>\n
"It's worth it for the banks, because they then have a captive audience, who are more likely to take other products from them."<\/p>\n
She says the bonus should be the "cherry on top" and people shouldn't overlook other aspects such as the bank's reputation for service, any overdraft charges and what savings rate it offers.<\/p>\n