written by 361Johnston on 06/04/2016
I have banked with First Direct for many years and wanted to open a regular savings account. I was asked so many intrusive questions like how much our house sold for and how much our flat cost. Where my business is.How much I earn and whether I paid myself enough as questions would be asked- actually the girl hadn't realised my tax rate. Questions about my business and what I do. etc etc.
This isn't the bank I have always known and loved. The staff are too busy to be helpful now. understaffed?
i did not open the account as the phone conversation took 40 minutes and there were more intrusive questions to come. I opened a bank online with another bank within five minutes!
I was assured other banks have to ask the same questions.
Had I been borrowing money I would have understood, but this was to open an account with a bank I have known for many years and with whom I already have five bank accounts.