Choose First Direct if...
- You value telephone support.
- You want a simple no-monthly-fee current account.
- You do not need a First Direct-branded branch.
- You may use First Direct savings as an existing customer.
Updated 3 July 2026 - High street bank comparison
First Direct vs HalifaxWhich should you choose?
First Direct and Halifax can both work as UK high street banking options, but they suit different priorities. First Direct may appeal if telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts matters most, while Halifax may be worth comparing if you prefer reward account options and lloyds group backing.
Quick verdict
Pick First Direct if you value telephone support.
Pick Halifax if you want reward account features.
Choose Halifax if...
- You want reward account features.
- You like Lloyds Group app and branch access.
- You want a simple high street account.
- You may use Halifax borrowing or savings products.
First Direct vs Halifax: side-by-side
| Category | First Direct | Halifax | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall fit | Telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts | Reward account options and Lloyds Group backing | Tie |
| Monthly fee | 1st Account has no monthly account fee. | Standard and reward account options available. | Tie |
| Branch access | No First Direct-branded branch network; selected HSBC and Post Office services may be available. | Lloyds Banking Group branch network. | Tie |
| Mobile app | App, online banking and 24/7 telephone banking support. | Good app for everyday account management. | Tie |
| Savings | Savings accounts are generally for existing 1st Account customers. | Savings and ISA products may be available. | Tie |
| Support | App, online and telephone support, with limited branch-style access through HSBC/Post Office routes. | Branch, phone, app and online support. | Tie |
| Extra products | Regular saver, fixed-rate savings, ISAs, loans, overdrafts and HSBC-backed services. | Reward accounts, credit cards, loans, mortgages and savings. | Tie |
Final verdict
First Direct and Halifax are worth comparing side by side. The better fit depends on whether you care more about telephone support, digital banking and simple current accounts or reward account options and lloyds group backing.
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