Though it is amongst the first to set up a bank and also first in starting overseas operations but as far as services concern, it is on No.2, after ICICI. I am giving hereunder my personal experience with HDFC.
I had opened a SB account in HDFC along with super saver facility. In the period of last two years (since account started operational), it is never reached at minimum balance. Unfortunately, in the last month, it is happened for merely 10 days only. The bank has deducted Rs. 150/- for whole quarter (@ Rs. 50/- p.m.). When I approached my nearest branch, they told me to contact your home branch, as they are helpless in this matter. I have sent two mails stating about my query. Only thing, I got reply that this is the standard practice, so you have to bear the same.
First of all, I don’t have time to approach the home branch. Then secondly, it is a matter of 10 days only, so if you want to charge, you can charge for that month only not for whole quarter.
Thirdly, what is use of online services, if you have to contact your home branch personally.
For these above reasons, I am thinking about to close my account with HDFC and start with a national bank, where there is no such problem.
Therefore, as per my personal advise, please think twice before you go with HDFC. Try other alternate first.
One more thing, most of the time, there ATM Counters along with branch’s network is down.