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first direct: Current account reviews

4.73
Based on 1,489 reviews, last reviewed 8th May 2026
20% 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

Excellent service

5
First Direct is the best account that I have had. It helps me keep on top of my finances. Reviewed on: 31st May 2023

Great bank

5
Great bank, brilliant customer service and quick to answer the phone Reviewed on: 31st May 2023

Cannot transfer money after 6pm

2
Can’t transfer money after 6pm - something I have never experienced with other banks. Too many security questions to setup app- also 2 passwords for the account which is tedious. The first direct is so far behind the competition in terms of features, including the new challenger banks, that is is almost embarrassing. It’s so barebones you would think you have a limit on your account. Customer service is good, but I’ve contacted them 4 times since I had the account for 2 weeks - which is more than I contacted my previous bank in 2 years. The fact that you need to contact support to change a standing order for the linked savings account monthly payment is also ridiculous. I lasted 3 working days post switch completion and realising the 6pm limit after contacting support before switching back to my previous bank. Really not worth the limitations, which is a shame as they some how rank high in terms of customer satisfaction and app ratings - the LBG companies apps are scores better than FirstDirect. Would absolutely not recommend other than for switching incentives - but even then I would avoid. Reviewed on: 31st May 2023

A rating of 1 becasue 0 isnt an option.

1
The systems with online banking are difficult and quite frankly not fit for purpose. The staff on the phoneline are rude and unhelpful. The complaints team are full of platitudes and really could not care about your concerns. I would recommend that anyone looking for a bank avoids first direct. Reviewed on: 28th April 2023

Money Recovery

5
I'm grateful for recover coin and his team for bringing back my lost money. I invested $65,000 worth of coins with Coin-Flip 6 months ago but they ripped me off the return of investment and the investment capital as well. Recovercoin AT rescueteam DOT com are the best when it comes to bitcoin and money recovery. They were able to recover my stolen coin, and it was helpful. You can easily reach them via Email: ([email protected]) Reviewed on: 18th April 2023

Setting up a paye

5
I setup a payment to my Santander ISA. Not only was it easy the call handler David made sure that I was not a "SCAM". So I am sure that my money is safe in their hands. THANK YOU. Reviewed on: 12th April 2023

Wouldnt go anywhere else

5
First direct is now my main bank after banking with both HSBC and Halifax and it’s head and shoulders above the rest of the banking world. The app is easy to navigate and the customer service is the best around, with quick and thorough replies! Reviewed on: 12th April 2023

They bring a human touch to banking

5
Best bank ever! Love their customer service and products Reviewed on: 11th April 2023

Great customer service

4
Customer service is always helpful and considerate. Reviewed on: 11th April 2023

Direct banking and more

5
Easy to open additional savings accounts. Customer services were there when needed them and they sorted out the issue. If your thing is security I doubt you'll find a better place for your data. Reviewed on: 11th April 2023

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