questionswhat are some good, small banks for checking and…

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by turtlegir1
asked 4 months ago

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I like the local credit union. The customer service is much better, additional perks (use any ATM without fees X amount of times per month) and the emphasis is typically on local community. If you choose a CU, definitely research/shop the local ones

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Unfortunately, we don't know where you live so it's hard to make a recommendation for a community bank or credit union but you are definitely on the right track. If you're just looking to get away from the big banks, pick the one that is closest to your home or work. If you are concerned about credit interest rates, ATM fees, etc. walk in to a few branches or look online and get some info. You will find that those type of banks have much better customer service. Not like my local main BofA branch that told a lady waiting in to inquire about a personal loan that no one at the branch could help her and she needed to go online to apply for a loan.

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Another, seldom thought of reason to use a local credit union: your money and the CU's assets usually stay in your own community and help local folks. Auto and personal loans and mortgages, for instance, benefit people in your town.

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If you live in Pennsylvania and are either a state employee or went to a state school go with PSECU. I love them. ATM fees up to $2o/month are refunded to your savings, low interest rates, and I can make deposits online and mail the check (and the money is credited to me right away, BEFORE they even get the check). Credit Unions are definitely the way to go. However, you have to be an eligible member. ING Direct is another good option.

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I'm on the credit union bandwagon. I thought my smallish regional bank was great compared to the mega banks but man the credit union blows it away.

Funny, recently Chase bank called me to offer me a bank account with a free $200 if I started direct deposit. I said "Actually, I'm with a credit union" and he said "Oh, so you're probably pretty happy with them, then." Yes, sir, yes I am.

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Credit Unions.... Big Banks suck these days...

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For the record, some of the small banks and credit unions took bailout money as well. That being said I loved my small bank and would still be with them if I had not moved. Now I am with a credit union and I like it, but not as much as my old bank.