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first direct: Current account reviews

4.73
Based on 1,489 reviews, last reviewed 8th May 2026
2% increase in 5 star reviews
in the past 90 days
100% increase in 1 star reviews
in the past 90 days
See only 5 star reviews
85%
See only 4 star reviews
9%
See only 3 star reviews
2%
See only 2 star reviews
1%
See only 1 star reviews
3%

Latest highest rating:

5

I’ve had a really positive experience with First Dir... I’ve had a really positive experience with First Direct’s 1st Account. The account is simple to manage, with an easy-to-use app, reliable online banki... Read more Reviewed on: 5th May 2026
Phil A's avatar
Phil A

Latest lowest rating:

1

1 star is far too generous. 1 star is far too generous. First Direct sent an email asking me to provide another review even though i have been waiting for a working PIN since Fe... Read more Reviewed on: 8th May 2026
Linda's avatar
Linda

About this product

The first direct 1st Account is a current account that can be opened in minutes.

If you’re eligible, you can get an interest free overdraft of £250. You won’t be charged debit card fees when spending abroad. If approved for an account, you’ll get a virtual card you can use straight away.

first direct 1st Account reviews help you find out what it’s really like to be a customer. If you’ve used first direct before, you can also leave a review and share your experience.

first direct Current account reviews (1489)

Review of the first direct, Current account:

Simple but effective

4
Although they lack high street locations they have the best customer service available and you can use the post office to pay in cheques etc Reviewed on: 22nd November 2019

Superb phone banking service!

5
I started banking with First Direct in 1990 because at the time they were offering something a bit different and something a bit more modern than the high street banks. Over 20 years later I still bank with them and I still consider them as one of the best service providers that I interact with on a regular basis. On the very odd occasion when something has gone wrong they have been honest about it and quick to act. I like that they care about customer retention. Reviewed on: 5th February 2015

Been with them from the start - best customer service ever - most unbank-like!

5
I have used First Direct from their very early days, and have had the best customer service from them - I'm no bank lover, but First Direct make me feel like they actually try that extra bit harder to keep you happy. I don't use their web service as I prefer to speak to a real person, and their UK based staff are helpful, friendly and knowledgable - EVERY time. Totally recommended. Reviewed on: 26th January 2015

first direct employ amazing staff, their people make phoning the bank more of a pleasure and less of a chore

5
First direct have won my vote due to how well they look after their customers! I recently joined and they've taken care of me as a friend, rather than a customer. They really make you feel as if you can trust them... And I do! Reviewed on: 24th January 2015

Customer focused bank that makes sure you are not being defrauded.

5
I love the 24/7 365 day access this account and this bank give you. I've called them at 11:30pm on Christmas Eve to check something in my account before and always find the staff friendly and helpful. Another great thing about this bank is their attention to your account and the way you use it. They've blocked purchases from my account before because they were unusual and I've had to call them to authorise the payment. Some people would find this annoying but I don't because I have a friend who's had a lot of money taken from her account fraudulently - if her bank had blocked the withdrawals, it wouldn't have happened. Reviewed on: 14th January 2015

Incredible service, easy to reach. 10/10!!

5
first Direct seriously know their customers needs and the market they're in. Never, ever had an issue with them in the 10 years I've banked with them! Would always be my first recommendation with anything banking! Reviewed on: 10th January 2015

Helpful Customer Services

4
Everytime I've had to call (usually due to forgetting various passwords!) they've been super friendly and helpful. They seem to empathise with forgotten passwords, losing letters and updated iPhone software which causes the app to stop working correctly. Nothing seems to difficult for them, and they take the time to listen to what you're asking. It also helps that they're based in the UK, so there's no language barrier. Reviewed on: 16th December 2014

Unobtrusively innovative

5
FD is a great internet bank, providing fast transfers, decent mobile app service and good service one to one. They take into account personal situation and are always willing to help. Reviewed on: 7th October 2014

No Hassle

5
Rarely had any problems and when I did I got through to a person instantly who knows what they are talking about and resolved my issues in minutes. Reviewed on: 6th October 2014

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