First Direct switch

cb2490

Couldn’t find a thread for First Direct queries so sorry if these are repeated.

I set up the account through the app. I got a text after saying I could access the account straight away before I get the card etc by post. I don’t have any sort code or account number to use. Have I skipped a page without saving or do you need to wait for the post?

I also did a switch from a (relatively) unused BOS account. I don’t have my salary paid into this one but I have details of my employer on the application. Will they contact my employer to change over the details now for it to be paid into the new acc? I’d prefer it to be left and paid into the other account I have.

PRAISETHESUN

You should've been given your account details when you finalised your application (either by email or on the confirmation screen). Otherwise, you might need to wait for your account opening letter/card to arrive. You could always try calling them, but without your card to hand you'll probably fail to pass security.

As for the switch, all the CASS system does is forward any payments made to your old account to your new account. Your salary will will only be forwarded on to your FD account if it gets paid into your BoS account - it sounds like this is not the case, so your salary should be unaffected. The banks won't contact your employer.

gsmh

I had the same experience. Got a message to say I could access the account straight away but no details were given. I rang them and was told I would need to wait for my debit card and online password. Fortunately the debit card arrived a couple of days later and the online password the next day so I was up and running within three or four days. I didn't apply for a switch at the time, but called them once I had my account details to switch in a Virgin Money account. I received my incentive after a few weeks.

I think there might have been more information had I applied through a web browser rather than the app on my phone.

ircE

I applied for the account online through web browser on Thursday and received NOTHING, not even a welcome email, when my application was approved / account was opened. I'd started to think I'd done something wrong and was planning to call them up next week. I received post from them yesterday, on Saturday, with a hello letter and the terms and conditions. Still no actual bank details, however, and it looks like I continue to wait to be drip fed details and documents (and the card!) through the post over the coming days.

older_wiser

good experience so far from FD applied last tuesday got the card on saturday got the pin and telephone banking password today 

accounts all setup its rather a basic app and website but i'll see how it goes i might decide to stick with them and use it as an extra bank account but i might also use it as an account to switch i still have virgin bank and barclays to do but that may be next year. 

btw i haven't had anything regarding the switch bonus in any email/letter/text which is unusual and slightly concerning although my switch doesn't complete until middle of next week. 

gsmh

People often say the online banking is basic. What’s missing compared to the banks you have previously used? I’ve banked with pretty much every bank going and there’s nothing I can’t do that I’d need to in the FD app and website. In fact it does more than most - like showing upcoming transactions the day before they land in your account. All direct debits are shown, unlike NatWest/Royal Bank where they are only shown if they have been called on. I’m genuinely interested to know what is missing.