What are the best banks or credit unions?I'm wanting to do checking, ATMs, online banking and am looking for a bank with friendly service, as few fees as possible, etc. Which bank or credit union is best? |
What are the best banks or credit unions?I'm wanting to do checking, ATMs, online banking and am looking for a bank with friendly service, as few fees as possible, etc. Which bank or credit union is best? |
There is no best bank, best credit union, or best bank account. You need to look at the totality of the bank’s or credit union’s services, accounts, and fees. Every bank and credit union offers several accounts with different features and different fees. Some banks and credit unions may have low overdraft fees, but high fees in other areas. Some accounts waive all fees if you maintain a minimum balance. The minimum balance varies from institution to institution. For example Bank of America in Texas sets its minimum balance for its checking accounts at $5,000 to avoid monthly maintenance fees. Other accounts have a monthly fee, but no fee on each transaction. Other accounts have no monthly fee, but a fee for each transaction. All institutions are required to print a schedule of fees. ►Read each schedule carefully, especially the small print and the footnotes. ◄
Some banks have a large number of ATMs which you can use without a charge. Other banks have a charge for ATMs.
I suggest that you visit several banks and credit unions and speak to the customer service personnel. Bring a written list of questions which are important to YOU. Find out the features and charges of each of their accounts. Find out how many ATMs are available, and whether there is a service charge for using the ATM.
Make sure you get everything in writing. Do not accept anything the customer service person tells you verbally.
You really want something that is convenient to you.
In case you want to use the ATM, or have a problem with a check or want to deposit coins, etc.
Next time you drive to school, work, grocery store, etc, write down the banks you see on the way.
Then go home and google them followed by checking account.
Write down what they offer and compare them.
Forget friendly service. Anyone friendly is really out for your money.
They can be rude as they want, as long as they save me money.
Credit unions and community banks are local. You did not say what city you are in, so how do we know? Credit unions usually require you live or work in a certain area.
http://www.bankrate.com
Many banks listed from around the country.