In a surprising move, Santander has launched a new incentive for UK customers, offering a £100 Amazon gift card without the typical requirement of switching bank accounts. Unlike the usual offers that demand customers transfer direct debits and salary payments, this deal allows account holders to earn a reward simply by using their debit cards for everyday transactions.
The new promotion is designed to attract more customers, following the end of a previous £30 voucher offer just days earlier. By offering a £100 Amazon voucher for as little as 30 debit card transactions over 60 days, Santander is tapping into a growing trend of “non-switch” banking rewards that provide flexibility without the usual hassle.
A Simple Reward for Regular Spend
The terms of the offer are refreshingly straightforward. Customers need only open a new Santander current account and make 30 debit card transactions within 60 days. This can include contactless payments, in-store purchases, or online shopping. The goal is to make it easy for consumers to qualify, without altering their regular spending habits or switching existing bank accounts.
“But unlike the usual incentives, you won’t need to shut down your old account, or use the Current Account Switch Service. “says Alastair Douglas, CEO of financial comparison site TotallyMoney. The reward, a £100 Amazon gift card, will be issued to qualifying customers who keep their accounts open, with the voucher available for redemption starting February 12, 2026. Customers should also be aware that only one voucher per person can be claimed.
Account Options and Fees: What’s the Catch?
While the new Santander offer is enticing, it’s important to note that not all account options are free. The Everyday account, recommended for those simply interested in the gift card, carries no monthly fee and is the most straightforward choice for those looking to benefit from the reward. However, for those seeking added perks, Santander also offers the Edge, Edge Up, and Edge Explorer accounts, each with a monthly fee ranging from £3 to £17.
The Edge account, for example, charges £3 per month but offers cashback on certain bills like council tax and utilities. For larger bills, the Edge Up account offers higher cashback, but at a monthly fee of £5. The premium Edge Explorer account, costing £17 monthly, comes with a range of insurance benefits, making it a more comprehensive banking option for those willing to pay for additional services.
While these paid accounts come with valuable extras, customers should carefully assess whether the benefits align with their needs before committing to one of the fee-bearing options.
A Growing Trend in Bank Incentives
This promotion from Santander comes amidst a competitive landscape where other banks are offering substantial rewards for new customers. According to Money Saving Expert, seven other banks are offering up to £200 in incentives for switching accounts, making it essential for consumers to shop around to find the best deal. In addition to cash bonuses, many of these accounts provide benefits like interest-free overdrafts and higher savings rates.
Santander’s latest move indicates a shift towards flexibility in how banks attract new customers. By offering rewards without requiring account switches, they are catering to a wider range of consumers who may be reluctant to disrupt their existing banking arrangements.
