What should one look for when choosing a military banking institution?


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I have enlisted in the US Army and will be leaving towards the beginning of July. I currently have checking/savings with Chase, but was wondering if anyone has opinions on different banks. Also, if anyone currently serving in the active duty military uses Chase, how has it worked out so far? Any help would...


Banks in Pendleton, IN



Answer (3):

 
Miss Lolly

Well my husband and I have military banking at Well's Fargo at the moment, but I've heard some great things about Navy Federal Credit Union. I do tend to think credit unions are a bit better than banks (fewers fees and more member-friendly).

But honestly, what I think you should look for in a bank or credit union is one that has branches in a lot of locations. The problem we've run into with both Pacific Marine Credit Union and Well's Fargo is they are ONLY in the West. PMCU is actually ONLY in California. They have like 2 branches total I swear to God, so it makes going to the bank a pain in the @ss (thank God we're stationed at Pendleton now though)

Well's Fargo is mainly in the West. When we were stationed in Missouri, there were NO branches. So I think you should look for banks that have a lot of branches in different locations...particularly near military installations.

Some you might consider: USAA, Armed Forces Bank

Most banks these days offer military banking, you just have to find one that has the lowest fees, best interest rates, and enough branches to make banking easier.

 
Antonio D

There is not a Military sanctioned Bank pre se......However, On most military posts (overseas...and in conus)...There is the Community Bank...Recommend this because they have branches on most posts...and it is easier to do business with a post bank...You also don;t have to pay for ATM charges...and it's Military friendly...Once you get to where ever your at...You can always change your allotment or your payroll deposit...Take Care good Luck

 
Joshua

To be honest, availability almost everywhere. I'm with Navy Federal, and they have been in almost every country I've been to.

 

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