2006-10-13 01:50:16 · 15 answers · asked by Anonymous in Local Businesses ➔ United Kingdom ➔ London
we just moved to first direct and i know they're part of the HSBC Group, but they're brilliant. We got an automatic £500 o/d facility, chq book and atm card as usual. Within the first week of moving to them, my salaries dept failed to pay my wages due to an error they had made. My rent was set up to come out the same day my salary went in, which the bank paid but this took me over the limit. I phoned them and they said not to worry, they would recoup the money back, not charge me and telephone my salary dept to help me get my money.
The customer service every time we have phoned is excellent and the best thing is they are open 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year.
2006-10-13 02:28:01 · answer #1 · answered by heleneaustin 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
All high street banks are pretty much the same. The thing to remember is banks are businesses, not charities and like all businesses their priority is to make a profit.
Keep them informed about what's happening with your finances. Don't get in trouble and then whinge when the bank charges you a massive administration fee for going a £1 into an unauthorised overdraft. See the problem coming and speak to your bank first.
Your finances are your responsibility to take care of, not the banks. I bank with HSBC and have never had a problem.
I sound really preachy. Sorry
2006-10-13 09:10:03 · answer #2 · answered by Katya-Zelen 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First Direct have been the number one rated bank for years in terms of being the most recommended bank.
2006-10-13 08:59:23 · answer #3 · answered by ZCT 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I also have to agree with the previous poster. Lloyds is by far the most professional, quick, and efficient service. My partner banks with them. I bank with Natwest and they aren't very reliable. They tend to make lots of mistakes that have cost me in the past. Like forgetting to file a standing order for me and being late for a mortgage payment!
What you need to do is assess what works for you, if you have little time to go to the bank why not see who offers internet banking. Or, some banks offer a great telephone banking system.
Alternatively, go with a bank you go past every day and can get to easily. This is always a bonus!
2006-10-13 08:56:18 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I see a lot of Nawest in there. I actually bank with Natwest and they are really good... the only thing I will say is that if you ever cancel a direct debit ask for proof of cancelation, Every time I have cancelled one they still let them come out!!!
2006-10-13 09:05:51 · answer #5 · answered by mrbatfink 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First Direct are really good. Their internet banking is fantastic and easy to use. Phone and postal banking is also good. Staff are quick to respond and helpful.
I've gone over my overdraft limit a few times too and they were very quick to refund charges after I explained reason why. Fab service.
2006-10-13 09:04:28 · answer #6 · answered by Lalalala 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Decent British Bank you got to be kidding there the ones who screw people..foreign Banks is what you want ..or a
Building society come Bank ..I suggest .Abbey National..
hope this helps
2006-10-13 11:01:10 · answer #7 · answered by JJ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
hey whatever you do not HSBC the company i work for banks with them and being in accounts i have to deal with them daily they are a nightmare! Natwest is probably the most popular bank and i would most certainly recommend it :)
2006-10-13 08:54:33 · answer #8 · answered by carlaroberts18 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Natwest are ok. MY boss uses them too and he a solicitor with plenty of accountants round him, i asked the accountant which bank is better to bank with and he said they are pretty much all the same, Theiving robbing barsto*ds!
2006-10-13 08:52:37 · answer #9 · answered by london lady 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have found the Nationwide to be great, even though they are not technically a bank! Check them out!
2006-10-13 12:21:50 · answer #10 · answered by Steve J H 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋