Ask HN: Recommendations for a bank? | Hacker News Reader

Ask HN: Recommendations for a bank?

4 pointsmartian4 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?

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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