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Chris Rowlands

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All reviews (4)

Review of the first direct, Current Account:

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Cannot transfer money after 6pm

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

Review of the NatWest, Reward Account:

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Methods not suitable for modern times

Still require card readers for transactions over a certain amount- unable to use mobile app to authorise/create these payments , meaning that you need to use a desktop browser. Not had this experience with other banks. Flakey chat support too, and you often get conflicting messages from different reps. Phone support is pretty good though, no issues with that. Reviewed on: 14th June 2021

Chris Rowlands

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Review of the Halifax, Current account:

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Really happy

Really happy with Halifax. Switched from FD. The app is great, lets you do pretty much every thing you need to do Day to day. The extra benefits such as the 3 pound reward and the cashback extras are great, and add extra value to the account! Customer service is good from what I have experienced. Would definitely recommend as they have a wide range of products too. Opening an account and switching was incredibly quick and hassle free. Reviewed on: 21st August 2017

Review of the first direct, Current Account:

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Customer service is good but that's all there is...

Customer service is really good. You get through to some one right away and are dealing with your query in minutes. Though, there is nothing really more to first direct - you don't really get any benefits (low interest rates, a pretty lack luster app..) it really feels like a no frills bank. Competitors have better interest rates, benefits such as rewards and cash back etc - first direct has nothing but good customer service. I don't find myself calling my bank often (reallistically, why should you these days when it's all online!) Also, all the security questions etc were a pain along with the various codes etc. I seen no beneift from staying, as I wasn't getting anything back from first direct after 4 years - especially from a product that would technically cost 10 pound a month if I didn't meet the quota. In the end, I decided to leave for a competitor that would offer better benefits such as rewards and cashback on certain purchases and I am a lot happier (better app too!) even if I need to press one when calling and entering my details on the phone. Reviewed on: 21st August 2017

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