Q&A: Switching bank accounts

A survey for Santander found that 20% of those questioned would rather go to the dentist than switch their bank accounts.

But in September 2013, the process of switching became a lot less painful.

That was when Britain's 50m current account holders were first able to move their bank account to another provider within seven days.

It followed a recommendation from the Independent Commission on Banking, which said there should be more competition in the market.

So how easy is it to switch? What can go wrong? And what guarantees do you have if your bank makes a mistake?

How common is switching?

Where do we bank at the moment?

How can I switch?

Virgin Money has launched a current account

So how long will switching take?

Do I have to notify my old bank?

What happens if I miss a payment as a result of the switch?

Can I still switch if I am overdrawn?

Which banks can I switch to?