How to Choose the Best Bank for You

When opening a checking or savings account, security and convenience top the list of must-haves. But how do you know which bank, savings and loan or other choice is the right one for you? According to the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJSCPA) there are many different factors to consider:

Security Comes First
Your chief concern in selecting a bank will be the safety of the money in your accounts. Most depositors at banks and savings and loans are insured by a government agency called the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC for short. Due to the current problems in the banking industry, the FDIC will guarantee each depositor’s money up to $250,000 through December 31, 2009. That means your cash will be returned to you, even if your bank fails. Some retirement accounts, including individual retirement accounts, are covered for up to $250,000 per depositor. So, the first question you should ask about any institution you’re considering is whether your deposits will be FDIC insured. If you have joint accounts, each depositor’s share of the account is protected up to $250,000 until December 31, 2009, and for at least $100,000 thereafter.

What’s the Best Deal?
Which bank offers the best options financially for you? For example, some banks pay interest on some of the dollars in your checking account, allowing your funds to earn money for you before they are spent. Other banks may offer free checking, which can be a great way to reduce costs. The interest that banks pay on savings accounts will vary, so it’s a good idea to shop around and compare rates. Also, consider what kinds of fees each bank charges in different situations, such as charges for using the ATM at your bank or at other institutions. Then consider what types of accounts you will need, and evaluate each bank’s costs and benefits.

Look into Services
Consider which services the bank offers. Does it provide online banking? Direct deposit of your payroll check? Direct bill pay from your account for regular expenses, such as your mortgage or utilities? Is there overdraft protection so you can avoid bouncing a check if one of your deposits doesn’t clear as quickly as you thought it would? Are safe-deposit boxes available? Make a list of the services you think you’ll want, and find out whether each bank you’re considering can meet your needs. At the same time, ask about other options that are offered. One bank may provide a valuable service you never realized was available.

How Convenient Is It?
The bank closest to your home or business may not be the best one, say, if it is always crowded. Stop by on weekends or at lunch hour to see how long the lines are. You may find that driving to another less-crowded bank a few minutes down the road will actually save you time spent waiting in line. Check, too, how many ATMs are available and if they are along your regular routes of travel. You will save money if you can avoid paying a fee at another bank’s ATMs.

Consult Your CPA
Choosing the right financial institution for your family is an important decision. Remember that whatever questions you may have about your economic situation, your local CPA can help. Turn to him or her for advice on any financial issues. If you don’t have a CPA, you can easily locate one online using the NJSCPA’s free, online Find-A-CPA service. Just go to www.findacpa.org, and in a few clicks you can locate a highly qualified professional who can assist you.




Produced in cooperation with the AICPA
©2009 The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

January 1, 2009