Finance Editor, Kael Tripton Ltd - LBS MBA - Verified against FCA Handbook: 14 June 2026
Quick answer
Banks must give 2 months' notice before closing a current account (Payment Accounts Regulations 2015). They must give reasons under Consumer Duty unless doing so would prejudice fraud investigations. You have the right to a basic bank account from major UK banks regardless of credit history. Use CASS for a 7-day switch with 3-year payment redirection.
Can Your Bank Close Your Account Without Telling You Why?
Direct answer
Can my bank close my account without reason and how much notice must they give?
Banks must give 2 months' written notice before closing a personal current account under the Payment Accounts Regulations 2015. Consumer Duty (PRIN 12) requires banks to give reasons for closure unless this would prejudice a fraud investigation. If no reason is given, write citing Consumer Duty Outcome 4. Use CASS for a 7-day switch to a new bank.
Request written reasons
Write to the bank citing Consumer Duty Outcome 4 and requesting the specific reason for closure.
Use the Current Account Switch Service
CASS guarantees a 7-working-day switch and redirects all payments for 3 years. Available at currentaccountswitch.co.uk.
Apply for a basic bank account if refused
All major banks must offer a basic bank account to UK residents. Apply directly if your main account is being closed.
Complain if the closure appears discriminatory
Write to the bank citing the Equality Act 2010 and Payment Accounts Regulations 2015. Escalate to the FOS if not resolved.
Act quickly
You have 2 months from the closure notice. Do not leave it until the last week to switch -- direct debits and payroll payments need time to move.
Related KT guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my bank close my account without telling me why?
Under FCA Consumer Duty (PRIN 12) and the Payment Accounts Regulations 2015, banks must give at least 2 months' notice before closing a personal current account. The FCA has issued specific guidance requiring banks to give customers a reason for account closure. However, banks are not required to give reasons in cases where doing so would prejudice fraud investigations or breach anti-money laundering obligations. If you receive a closure notice without reasons, write to the bank citing Consumer Duty Outcome 4 and requesting an explanation.
What is the right to a basic bank account?
Under the Payment Accounts Regulations 2015, all major UK banks must offer a basic payment account to any legal UK resident who does not already have one and is not excluded for serious reasons (such as fraud conviction). A basic bank account allows direct debits, standing orders, debit card payments and cash withdrawals but typically does not include an overdraft or certain premium features. Banks cannot refuse a basic bank account application solely because the applicant has poor credit history or is in debt.
Can my bank close my account because of my political views or profession?
No. The Payment Accounts Regulations 2015 prohibit banks from discriminating on grounds protected under the Equality Act 2010. However, banks have broad discretion to close accounts for commercial reasons, risk appetite reasons, or because the customer's activity does not fit their business model. The FCA's 2023 guidance on account closures specifically addressed concerns about banks closing accounts of politically exposed persons (PEPs) or those with legal but controversial views, requiring banks to demonstrate objective business reasons.
How much notice must a bank give before closing my account?
Under the Payment Accounts Regulations 2015, banks must give at least 2 months' written notice before closing a current account. They must tell you where you can find information about switching to another provider. For basic bank accounts, the notice period before closure is also 2 months. During the notice period, the account continues to function normally.
What should I do if my bank account is being closed?
Request the reason in writing, citing Consumer Duty Outcome 4. Use the Current Account Switch Service (CASS) to move to a new bank -- CASS guarantees a 7-day switch and redirects all payments for 3 years. If you believe the closure is discriminatory or unjustified, complain to the FOS. The FOS has found against banks that closed accounts without adequate justification, particularly where the closure caused financial harm.
Primary sources
Kael Tripton Ltd is registered with the Information Commissioner's Office under registration number ZC135439.
