Where should I open my first bank account????

Question

I will be turning eighteen this week and need to open one. If you guys could tell me what has worked out for you in the past or what banks to stay away from.....

Answer 1

Deffinatly stay away from big banks. With all the economic unstediness most big banks were into subprime lending which is hurting them all right now. Other than that it depends on where you live and what is important to you. If you are looking for great service and a diversified product selection I'd go with Umpqua Bank if you live in SW Washington, Oregon, Or Northern California. Just walk into one and you'll know you are home. Or you might even try a credit union. I haven't heard of any credit unions that were involved in subprime lending. Plus credit unions are all about treating their members right not shoving sales down your throat every time you walk in the door.

Answer 2

Stay away from the big banks like bank of america and wachovia. Go with a smaller local bank, they will care about you more and work with you more than these big banks will.

Answer 3

Go to the bank that is nearest to you or your school or your work.  That makes it so much easier.  You will need to get cashiers checks for some things.  THe bank always has a Notary Public and you will need to get things notarized.  There really aren't any terrible banks.  Some have more tellers available than others, but you will use the ATM for most daily stuff.