If you "needed" a new bank for your personal use which one would you choose? Why?

[theguru]

The Bank of KY merger thread got me thinking. Since I have to switch banks (merger or not it is a bank switch) I should switch to the "best" one.

 

Anyone?

[theguru]

I should add, ease of use on the electronic side of banking (doing everything via the Net) would be my primary interest.

[BirdBrain]

I have not had good luck with nationals and prefer the local / regionals. I'm using Heritage in NKY and Citizens as my out of town and they seem to do well. Almost a credit union feel.

[lawildcat]

I prefer smaller banks like BOK or Heritage. The big ones - US Bank, 5/3 have been nothing but trouble for me all my adult life. US Bank once reported me as filing for bankruptcy which I absolutely had not. Took me forever to get that fixed. The credit agencies wanted me to submit proof that I hadn't filed. WHAT?! How does someone prove they haven't filed?!

[theguru]

I prefer smaller banks like BOK or Heritage. The big ones - US Bank, 5/3 have been nothing but trouble for me all my adult life. US Bank once reported me as filing for bankruptcy which I absolutely had not. Took me forever to get that fixed. The credit agencies wanted me to submit proof that I hadn't filed. WHAT?! How does someone prove they haven't filed?!

 

You hire an attorney who gives you a first year law school explanation about disproving negatives and a 10 year vet bill for her/his services.

[Randy Parker]

I prefer smaller banks like BOK or Heritage.

 

Agreed.

 

We use Heritage.

[theguru]

Agreed.

 

We use Heritage.

 

How is their electronic banking and the ease of use of their web interface?

[Randy Parker]

How is their electronic banking and the ease of use of their web interface?

 

Pretty solid IMO, but it's the only place I've banked for the last 8 years or so, meaning I can't accurately compare it with other places.

[TheDeuce]

Do yall have PNC up there?

[UKMustangFan]

^Yes.

 

I would highly recommend switching to a national one (PNC, US Bank, or 5th/3rd). I've only used US Bank, but the wife had 5th/3rd. With US Bank at least, the only times I've ever had a fee in my life was for withdrawing money from an ATM at a "bar" or stadium location. Other than that, they reimburse all fees. Have always had great customer service any time I've contacted them, and IMO, the electronic side of things is great. We pay all our bills online with them.

[BigVMan23]

Local credit union, and don't look back. I have been with Commonwealth credit Union for almost 20 years now. They are much more in tune with members and customer service is beyond reproach compared to the big banks. That's what I would look at first if I were you.

[rjs4470]

I had a very bad experience with PNC as did my parents who live on the other side of the country. Poor service and a couple stupid errors, of which even one is too many.

 

My main bank is Huntington, and I've been with them for 15 years, and have business and personal accounts. Very friendly, low/no fees, plenty of local branches. Although, I did have a recent not so great experience trying to get an auto loan through them. Considering my credit is very good, and I had financed and paid off 4 cars through them over the years, I expected better than they were willing to provide. I also bank with Republic. And while they aren't always convenient (only two locations), their service is just simply outstanding. And despite being a smaller, regional bank, they offer all the services and electronic conveniences of the big boys.

[TheDeuce]

I love PNC.

 

'Ru if you're looking for a good internet experience, I've always loved PNC's Virtual Wallet. Very interactive yet VERY easy to use. The PNC app is also very easy to use and multi-functional.

 

And make sure when you sign up you tell them you want a Steelers ATM card. :banana:

[TheDeuce]

Local credit union, and don't look back. I have been with Commonwealth credit Union for almost 20 years now. They are much more in tune with members and customer service is beyond reproach compared to the big banks. That's what I would look at first if I were you.

 

I've had an account with CCU for years as well. They do a good job.

[Bengal Maniac]

Switched to Chase three years ago. Best move I ever made in banking. Lots of branches across the country if you even go the the branches any more and work with us on all kinds of financial issues.

 

They don't do personal loans, though. You can get several types of credit cards with zero for 12-15 months interest easily with them. Just have to pay them off and then close them when it gets close. They make it super easy to do.