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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.

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first direct Current Account reviews (1489)

The best account

5
I've been with first direct for years. They are without doubt the best bank to deal with. Their phone service if you ever need then is second to none. The app is very good and very clear. The back account is clear and provides everything you need. I would highly recommend first direct to anyone. I have encouraged several family members who have also moved to first direct and are also very happy. Reviewed on: 10th May 2019

Poor customer service - impossibly difficult online system to negotiate

2
Really disappointed with this bank (in process of switching to Metro). Basically, I joined almost as soon as it opened, and was pleased to recommend for quite a long time (to quite a few people). Unfortunately - as always seems to happen - it has grown bloated with self-satisfaction, uninterested in the consumer, and very well pleased with itself. So: the reasons I'm switching are: (1) poor customer service, (2) no interest on current account, (3) difficulty of negotiating online account, (4) insane level of security being required. Other than these: fab! (not!!!!) Reviewed on: 9th May 2019

Superb current account

5
Flawless service and no errors ever Reviewed on: 8th May 2019

Best customer service ever received from a bank

5
As it says on the box - this bank has the best customer service I have ever received from a bank! I highly recommend their first account if it works for you. Reviewed on: 2nd May 2019

Rude and time-consuming

1
I have put up with First Direct for about two decades. They were excellent for a while but they've grown very arrogant and unhelpful over time - while their security features take forever (one gets a little fob, to create codes for every single thing). I appreciate that security is an issue, but my husband doesn't have to do this, with Lloyds. Their staff are extremely offhand and unhelpful as well - and, in some ways, the worst of all - it's VERY hard to search for anything, or to accomplish tax returns, with their archaic system. I really would NOT recommend this online bank to a friend - would advise them to steer well clear, instead! Reviewed on: 1st May 2019

Excellent

4
Quick to set up, recommended. Lady talked me through and was extremely pleasant. Reviewed on: 23rd April 2019

Great 24 hour banking

5
I've been with this bank for many years and have a savings account and also had a couple of personal loans with them. I consistently get great customer service with them and have absolutely no complaints. Reviewed on: 20th April 2019

Great customer service

5
Great customer service on the phone Convenient app and access to hsbc branches Reviewed on: 19th April 2019

Excellent customer service

5
Excellent service with UK based call centre - very helpful Reviewed on: 19th April 2019

Fantastic customer service

5
Helpful & friendly staff No long telephone waiting times! Reviewed on: 15th April 2019

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