Santander is paying £180 into bank accounts of certain customers. The banking giant is running an offer for new customers switching from rivals. Those who join the Santander Edge account can get a free £180 payment once they have completed a few steps. READ MORE: £200 for Nationwide customers not getting bonus payments Get our best money saving tips and hacks by signing up to our newsletter It’s one of the latest cash deals from one of the big banks in the battle to secure customers from rivals. These offers run during most times of the year, so it’s always worth hunting around to see what money is available. Finance experts say switching is an easy way to make extra cash and is usually an straightforward process. NatWest , TSB and First Direct are among other banks running switching offers at the moment. New customers usually have to complete a few steps before getting the payments, such as moving a set amount of money and direct debits to the new account. The Santander Edge account also offers access to a 6% easy-access savings account and 1% cashback on bills. It does come with a £3 monthly fee, though people may feel this is worthwhile in order to bag the £180 payment. Martin Lewis’ Money Saving Expert (MSE) explained: “Banks sometimes offer switch incentives – free cash, boosted savings rates or other perks – to new customers who switch in an existing current account to a new current account with them. “Essentially, banks want your custom and switch bribes are a double win for banks – you not only join them, but you leave one of their rivals.” On the Santander offer, they added: “FREE £180, 6% easy-access savings, 1% bills cashback and a top overseas debit card. “As well as the free cash, for a £3/month fee, switching to the Santander Edge account can net you a total of £20/month cashback.”