First Direct will discontinue its First Directory insurance package by the end of this month. Priced at £15 monthly, First Directory includes travel insurance, mobile insurance, and breakdown cover. Although not open to new customers since 2020, existing customers have been able to retain this package. However, First Direct has now confirmed its permanent closure on July 31, necessitating customers to seek alternative insurance options.

For those with upcoming trips, travel insurance will remain valid for bookings made up to and including July 31, 2026, and trips commencing up to and including October 31, 2026. Mobile insurance will cover devices purchased on or before July 31, 2026, until October 31, 2026. Similarly, motor breakdown cover will stay in effect until October 31, 2026.

It is important to note that policyholders aged 70 or older may see their coverage terminated, as First Directory has a maximum age limit of 69. However, customers can continue using their First Direct current accounts without interruption.

In other banking news, Halifax, after 173 years, is set to disappear from UK high streets, with the brand transitioning to Lloyds. Halifax branches and accounts will be rebranded to Lloyds, with new accounts no longer under the Halifax name. Account details will remain the same, but Halifax customers will need to utilize the Lloyds app for online banking in the near future.

Communication regarding these changes will be directly conveyed to customers through trusted channels such as the Halifax app, online banking, email, and postal mail. Lloyds Banking Group, which includes Halifax and Bank of Scotland, has allowed customers of all brands to manage their accounts at Halifax and Lloyds branches since early 2025.

The rebranding of Halifax branches to Lloyds is scheduled to occur throughout 2027, with no anticipated job losses due to the transition. Lloyds Banking Group has announced additional branch closures, totaling 79 on top of the previously planned 95, resulting in a total of 531 branches across the UK, with approximately 190 being former Halifax locations.