The Best Bank Account

[GINA011]

Hi everyone! Just about had enough with the way I get treated by Barclays. What bugs me the most is that if I have any query regarding my account, 9 - 5 phone call to my local branch only is the only way (online banking cant always answer everything) I need a bit more flexibility an also some appreciation for my custom. So here is my question - who do I go to get better service? Please also write what type of debit card could I get, as I am after Visa. Thanks.

[natalie_1982]

Not the Halifax, they charged me �75 for going 11p over my limit. I agree about Barclays tho, I went there at the weekend with my man to open a joint account and they told us they only open bank accounts m-f. I explained we both work full time m-f and they said they couldn't do anything!! Surely it's in there interest?? Bah. Out of my system now! Anyways, don't use Halifax.

[andy hughes]

I've tried all the 'major' banks over the years, and I've been with The Yorkshire Bank the longest. They still seem to believe in local branches handling personal accounts, courteous service, a phone call to your branch, that kind of thing. Check 'em out.

[Curious79]

First Direct are the best. I cannot sing their praises enough. You can phone them 24/7 even xmas day. The staff are ALL friendly and helpful. I have got a switch card with them. I am very Y2K so I love their internet banking. And when you do need to go into a branch to pay money in etc, you can go to HSBC.

[saffstar]

Cahoot are pretty darn good too, and you'll get a Visa Delta from them.

[Mrs_Pegasus]

Oddly enough I am with Lloyds and have been for about 20 years! I have never ever had any problems with them. They have 24 hr telephone banking and I have a number to ring the bank direct during working hours. Their on line banking is pretty good, you can apply for temporary overdrafts and even a loan. I was once charged for overdrawing and I was initally charged but a quick phone call and it was removed. I think its horses for courses.

[jnorridge]

the co-operative bank doesnt invest in fire arms to poor countries unlike barclays and whatever you do HSBC are scum

[SuzeB]

I recently opened a Smile account(www.smile.co.uk) and closed my Royal Bank of Scotland account. I'd definitely recommend Smile. They help you transfer from your old account to new, have instant messaging so you get a personal responses from a real live person, don't leave you hanging on the phone for 1/2 hour, and have the same ethical policy as co-op bank.

[ianess]

Nationwide FlexAccount along with their Internet Banking and E-Savings Account stand among the best. They do Visa.

[milkynut]

Hi. I work for barclays and just to clarify that accounts can be opened any day of the week (yes including sunday online) as long as correct id is brought in to branch. Also, as well as branch direct phone numbers (which not all banks offer, we have hundreds of helpful specialists on phone, many branches have numbers readily available. All our customers are highly valued, however we will never please everyone. We do offer Visa. thanks

[copperbottom]

First Direct are without queston the best bank to deal with. Infact, in most sectors, FD is right up there with the very few companies which really look after their customers. Their senior management are all really down to earth and this is reflected in their business approach. When it comes to marketing they rule....you dont get EGG junk or smile crap.....you get info on products and services that apply to you.

Simple choice......first direct