Choosing a bank can be difficult. There are so many options that it is easy to feel overwhelmed. It’s important to find the right institution for you, but how do you know which one is best?
In this blog post, we’ll help narrow down your choices by discussing 10 ways to find the perfect match for you!
1. Check out the bank’s website
This is a great way to start your research! The website will give you an overview of the company and its products. It should also be easy to find customer reviews on the site.
2. Ask friends and family for recommendations
Chances are, someone you know has had a good (or bad) experience with a bank. You can also ask your real estate agent or insurance broker which banks they recommend for their clients.
3. Call the bank’s customer service line
You can also call the bank’s customer service line and ask them some questions about their services, fees, account types, etcetera. Ask if there are any ongoing monthly charges that you might not be aware of (like an overdraft fee).
4. Look for the bank’s accreditation
The most well-known accrediting organizations are the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
5. Compare interest rates
You’ll want to make sure you’re getting the best return on your deposited money. Use a website like Bankrate.com to compare rates.
6. See how the bank fares in customer service surveys
Sites like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power offer rankings of banks based on customer satisfaction surveys.
7. Read reviews online
There are a number of websites that allow customers to post their experiences with banks (and other businesses). Be sure to read a variety of reviews, from both positive and negative.
8. Check out the bank’s location
You’ll want to be sure that there is a branch or ATM near you. And if you’re looking for a specific type of account (like a student account), make sure the bank has locations on or near campus.
9. Look into the bank’s financials
These should be readily available online, and you can use this information to check out the bank’s financial health.
10. Consider additional features like mobile banking or free ATMs (if applicable)
You might also want to see if there are any rewards/loyalty programs for checking accounts at your chosen bank!
Summary
Choosing which bank to trust with your finances and future can be daunting given that there are so many banks out there, all claiming to offer services that will blow your mind away.
However, following the above tips can help you narrow down on what banks can best serve your interests before settling on one.
