21 Ways to Find the Best Bank for Your Financial Needs

Choosing the right bank isn’t just about finding a checking account – it’s a crucial step in managing your finances effectively. The best way to get started is to think about what stage of life you’re in now and where you want to go next. Are you going to buy a car soon? A house? Start a business? Do want to grow your savings? Get into investing?

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Banks have way more to offer you than you might think – and you may even want to use more than one for different services. Here are just a few of the options you might want to consider before you open your next account.

Consider your financial goals and needs, such as saving for a down payment on a house or building an emergency fund. Many banks will give you rewards and incentives to help you reach the goal you’re looking to achieve.

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If you’re someone who frequently needs to withdraw cash or speak to employees in person, be sure you choose a bank with convenient locations and ATM access to save you time and money.

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So much of the world is mobile- and online-first these days that it’s easy to forget that not every financial institution is the same way. If being able to access your money on the go matters to you, ensure your bank has easy-to-use online banking tools to help you manage your finances from anywhere.

Ask yourself: Can you do banking business while traveling? Are the limits for mobile deposits too low for you? Be real about your needs.

It can be a challenge to wade into all the fine print about a bank’s fees to make sure they align with your budget and financial goals, but it’s crucial – especially if you find yourself living paycheck to paycheck.

Be sure to review interest rates across different banks to find the best rates for your savings and checking accounts.

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Even if you chose a bank with several ATMs near you, cash withdrawals are not always exactly where we need them to be in the moment. Though many ATMs charge fees for non-account holders, there are several banks that will reimburse ATM fees to help save you money. If your lifestyle requires it, make sure to demand this perk.

Sometimes a small bank with a strong local reputation is exactly what you need for your rental income – but it may not always be available when you need it. Think about whether you need a bank with extended hours of operation or online banking options that can accommodate your schedule.

Verify the bank is FDIC-insured to ensure your deposits are protected.

Choose a bank that provides excellent customer service, with accessible and responsive representatives.

Look for banks that offer various loan options, including personal loans, auto loans, and home loans.

Consider a bank that offers credit cards with low interest rates and rewards programs.

Choose a bank that offers opportunities to get high yield rates, like those offered by money market accounts and certificates of deposit.

Ensure the bank has a user-friendly mobile app that allows you to manage your finances on the go.

Choose a bank that offers online bill pay to help you manage your finances and pay bills easily.

Consider a bank that offers overdraft protection to avoid overdraft fees and manage your finances responsibly.

Choose a bank that offers debit card rewards to help you earn cash back and save money.

Look for banks that offer investment options, such as brokerage services and retirement accounts.

Consider banks that offer student banking options with lower fees and special promotions.

Choose a bank that offers services for small business owners, such as business loans and checking accounts.

Look for banks that offer international banking options to help you manage your finances while traveling abroad.

Ask friends and family members for recommendations on banks they trust and have had positive experiences with.

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The article above was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of our editorial team.