Ask HN: Recommendations for a bank?

by martian on 5/3/2011, 9:27 PM with 4 comments

First, some background: For as long as I've had a bank account it's been with a credit union in my hometown. I loved being able to call back and hear the local Midwest accent and know the names and faces of people I was talking to. However, my credit union recently merged with a larger entity, and their support for my lifestyle and needs is marginal.

So, what do you recommend? I love the credit union model but fear it can't provide everything I'm looking for. Ideally the features I'm looking for: - easy access to local branches (in San Francisco now, but maybe elsewhere) - awesome online interface; bill-payment is a must - good service with good rates and low fees - easy to transfer money in and out

I hope BankSimple will do all this, but what do you recommend until then?

  • by peng on 5/3/2011, 10:56 PM

    I like USAA.

    It's ostensibly a bank for those employed by the US armed forces (or related to someone in the service), but any American can freely open checking and savings accounts. If you qualify for a credit card and insurance, you can cash checks by taking a picture with your cellphone.

    Amazing online interface (I design interfaces professionally, and theirs is one of the best I've used), iPhone/Android apps, online bill pay, no minimum balance required, free overdraft protection, and a refreshing lack of random fees like those I've encountered at Chase.

    The only local USAA branch is in Texas, but they reimburse ATM fees (up to $15 a month, I think). I've been traveling around the world for an entire year and have had no problems. Customer service is fantastic.

  • by code on 5/3/2011, 10:32 PM

    Here are some recommendations from True Ventures: http://www.trueventures.com/recommendations/

    Disclaimer: I am not associated with True Ventures in any way.

    However, I have been a long time customer of Wells Fargo and would vouch for them. I love their customer service and have done both personal and business banking with them. They're headquartered in San Francisco as well and are available almost everywhere nationwide. Hope this helps.

  • by bricestacey on 5/4/2011, 5:18 AM

    ING has good rates, really low fees if at all, good website, bill-pay, easy in and out. There are no local branches, but ATMs abound.

    My favorite though is their checking accounts can have a line of credit with super competitive rates (7.25% right now). And even if you don't go for a credit line they don't charge overdraft fees.

  • by m0nastic on 5/3/2011, 10:45 PM

    I can sympathize, as I'm in a similar boat.

    I love the CIA credit union, but their branches are all around DC, and I'm planning on moving soon.

    I keep checking the BankSimple web site to see if they're any closer to launching, as I'm hoping to avoid having to open an account with Citi or Wachovia after I move.