Savings Interest Rates, Switch Offers and Guides for AIB (NI)

Who they are

AIB (NI) - formerly known as First Trust Bank - is a commercial bank in Northern Ireland that is part of Allied Irish Banks's UK subsidiary, AIB Group (UK) plc. The bank can trace its roots all the way back to 1816 and the founding of the Belfast Savings Bank , making it one of the oldest financial institutions on the island. In Northern Ireland it offers a full range of banking services, both to business and residential customers.

One thing worth knowing on the deposit protection front: AIB Group (UK) plc operates under the trading names of AIB (NI) in Northern Ireland and Allied Irish Bank (GB) and Allied Irish Bank (GB) Savings Direct in Great Britain - and the FSCS limit relates to the combined amount across all of those trading names. So if you already hold savings with Allied Irish Bank (GB), those balances count toward the same limit.

Savings accounts

AIB (NI) covers most of the bases a UK saver might look for. The headline is the Regular Saver Account, currently paying 6% variable on instant-access savings from just £1 - a strong rate for anyone who can commit to saving little and often. For those who want to lock money away, the Fixed Rate Saver is available at 3.75% for both 12 and 24 months, again with a £1 minimum, which makes it unusually accessible. There is also a shorter 6-month fixed option at 3.07%, though that one carries a £5,000 minimum deposit.

On the tax-free side, the Cash ISA pays 3.5% variable with instant access and a £50 minimum - a reasonable option if you haven't used your ISA allowance. The Select Account provides easy access at 1.5% variable with no stated minimum, though that rate is well below the best on the market and is really one to treat as a holding account rather than a serious savings tool.

All accounts listed here carry FSCS protection up to £120,000, reflecting the temporary high balance cover that can apply in certain circumstances.

Is it right for you?

AIB (NI) is worth a serious look if you are based in Northern Ireland and want a full-service bank with genuine savings options alongside your current account. The Regular Saver rate is one of the more competitive around, and the low minimums on the fixed products mean you do not need a large lump sum to get started. Just remember that the FSCS licence is shared with Allied Irish Bank (GB), so factor that in if you save with both brands.

Rates are variable where stated and can change at any time - check the live figures shown on this page to make sure you are seeing the most current numbers before you decide.