Part of our First Direct UK — Complete Guide 2026 hub.
First Direct’s sort code is 40-47-84 — and unlike most UK banks, this single sort code applies to all First Direct accounts. Because First Direct has no physical branches, there’s no branch-specific sort code variation. Here’s how to find your full account details and how to use them.
First Direct Account Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Sort code | 40-47-84 (all accounts) |
| Account number | 8 digits — unique to you |
| SWIFT/BIC code | MIDLGB22 |
| IBAN format | GB + 2 check digits + MIDL + 404784 + account number |
| Bank name | First Direct (a division of HSBC UK Bank plc) |
| Bank address | 40 Wakefield Road, Leeds, LS98 1FD |
How to Find Your Sort Code and Account Number
Via the First Direct app (quickest method):
- Sign in and tap your 1st Account
- Tap Account details
- Your sort code (40-47-84) and 8-digit account number are shown — tap to copy either
Via First Direct Internet Banking:
- Log in at firstdirect.com
- Select your account
- Click Account details — sort code and account number displayed
Other ways:
- Bank statements — sort code and account number appear at the top of every statement
- Debit card — your 16-digit card number is different, but account details are shown on some statements
- Call First Direct — 03 456 100 100 (24/7, human agents)
Why First Direct Has One Universal Sort Code
Most UK banks assign different sort codes to different branches. Because First Direct has no physical branches, all accounts share the single sort code 40-47-84. This makes it particularly easy to share and remember your banking details.
The sort code prefix 40 indicates a HSBC banking licence — First Direct operates as a division of HSBC UK Bank plc, not as a completely separate bank.
What Is a Sort Code Used For?
A sort code is a 6-digit number that identifies the bank (and usually the branch) associated with your account. Together with your 8-digit account number, it routes payments to you correctly.
You’ll need your sort code and account number for:
- Receiving UK bank transfers — both Faster Payments and BACS require sort code and account number
- Setting up salary payments — give these to your employer’s payroll department
- Direct debits — utilities, subscriptions, HMRC all need these to credit money into your account
- HMRC repayments — tax refunds, Self Assessment refunds, and Child Benefit all pay via BACS
- Standing orders from other banks
Sort code and account number are not sensitive information. Share them with anyone who needs to make a payment to you.
First Direct SWIFT/BIC Code
First Direct’s SWIFT/BIC code is MIDLGB22.
This is the same SWIFT code used by HSBC UK, reflecting their shared banking licence. You’ll need it when:
- Receiving an international transfer — provide your SWIFT/BIC alongside your IBAN to the sender
- Sending an international payment — the recipient’s SWIFT/BIC is required and the app will prompt you for it
SWIFT/BIC codes are publicly listed and completely safe to share.
First Direct IBAN
An IBAN is required to receive international bank transfers. UK IBANs are 22 characters and encode your account details in a globally recognised format.
First Direct IBAN format:
GB + 2 check digits + MIDL + 404784 + your 8-digit account number
Example: GB29 MIDL 4047 8412 3456 78
Always use the IBAN shown in the First Direct app or Internet Banking. Manually calculated IBANs can contain check digit errors that cause transfers to fail.
Sharing Your Details Safely
Your sort code and account number can only be used to receive funds — they cannot be used to authorise outgoing payments. Share these freely with:
- Your employer (payroll)
- HMRC
- Government departments (Child Benefit, Self Assessment repayments)
- Friends and family sending you money
- Clients making payment to you
Keep private: your debit card number, CVV, PIN, Internet Banking password, and any one-time passcodes. First Direct will never ask for these in full by phone, email, or text. If asked, it is fraud — hang up and call 03 456 100 100 directly.