What it does
first direct offers the 1st Account to UK residents aged 18 or over, with no monthly account fee. It can be held individually or jointly and managed through mobile, online or phone banking. first direct is a division of HSBC UK Bank plc.
The 1st Account provides a debit card for each holder of a joint account. A virtual card is available while the physical card is being delivered, making the app useful from the start rather than only after the post arrives.
Moving regular payments
For an account switch, select the destination account in the app and choose switch to us from its account menu. Enter the old account details and your preferred switching date. The Current Account Switch Service moves regular payments through its seven-working-day process. Existing customers who want an additional account also have a phone route.
There is no monthly account fee. An arranged overdraft is optional and subject to approval: the first £250 is interest-free, with borrowing above that charged at 39.9% EAR variable. This borrowing cost is separate from the account’s monthly fee.
Applicants must be UK residents aged at least 18. Be ready to provide identification and proof of address; income information may also be requested. The account supports cash and cheque payments, including service through HSBC UK and Post Office branches, alongside digital and phone access. It is a personal account and cannot be used as a business account.
Strengths
- Joint account holders each receive a debit card.
- The app provides a named switching route, with phone banking also available.
Watch out for
- Eligibility is limited to UK residents aged 18 or over.
- An arranged overdraft above the interest-free portion carries variable interest.
Best for
- UK adults moving an everyday current account and regular payments
- Couples who want a joint account with both app and phone access
Sources
- first direct Current Account (Oct 27, 2026)
- Account Terms and Conditions and Charges (Oct 27, 2026)