The idea of changing banks gets a bad rep. Too many individuals and firms believe that it is such a challenge to change and that it isn’t worth the hassle.

However, this isn’t the case.

Despite this prevailing myth, most of the time, changing banks can occur seamlessly and can actually bring you far more benefits than you initially imagine.

As your personal or business finances grow, your banking needs will also develop.

If you have grown disillusioned with your current provider, there is no reason to not shop around for a bank that can give you something more.

• Here are five legitimate reasons to change banks this Spring.

1. You want fewer fees

Without a doubt, the main reason to change banks is so that you — the customer — can have access to superior banking for a lower price.

Unlike previously when banks would throw in lots of freebies and incentives, now you are most likely charged for everything. Fees for maintenance? Yes. Fees for overdrafts? Lots of them. Fees for bounced checks? You bet. And new fees are popping up all the time.

Even if you are not sure you want to change banks, you should always be on the lookout for better deals.

Keep your eyes wide and your ears open for banks that offer inexpensive checking accounts, unlimited monthly transactions, and a small business lending capacity (if applicable to your situation).

2. You want a more convenient app interface

While it may not be the first thing you think of, in 2018 it is crucial that a bank is staying up-to-date with enhancements in technology.

Working with a bank that prioritizes its users’ online and app experience makes things a lot easier and demonstrates their commitment to their customers.

Mobile banking services are the future, and you want to feel comfortable being able to manage your accounts from your devices. Not only will it be easier for you to check your accounts more frequently, but it also will help you stay on top of your day-to-day financial needs if you can do them from your smartphone.

3. You want greater proximity when on the go

There is no point working with a bank that is located far from where you reside. If you are a frequent traveler, you are going to require a bank that has many branches, and whose services can be utilized no matter where you go.

You will need a bank with a more extended ATM network, so your hard-earned cash isn’t merely going towards paying off ATM fees.

That being said, you don’t necessarily just want to look at the big, major banks, as a more local branch could not only offer a more personal service (see #4) but also may be partnered with a broader array of banks across the country and the world.

4. You want more personalized service

When dealing with your personal or business finances, you want to be concentrating on building a relationship with your bank manager. They can help you obtain necessary financing, apply for a personal or business credit card, and ensure you are protecting your assets.

Having a relationship with your bank manager means you can be assured that they will guide you, advise you, encourage you and support you in accomplishing your financial goals — whether they include getting a personal loan or setting up the best possible retirement plan.

If you don’t feel like you are getting the appropriate amount of personalized service with your current bank, it is certainly time to look elsewhere.

5. You just want to do some spring cleaning

We all have those recurring charges that we have been paying for so long that we forget to evaluate their necessity. Whether it is your video streaming account, an abundance of magazine subscriptions, or a gym membership, these small monthly fees add up to a large number of withdrawals from your account.

Just like spring cleaning your home, spring cleaning your bank account is an essential way to clear up your life.

By switching bank accounts, you will be forced to go through your recurring charges and make a new decision about whether they are bringing you enough value to make it worth signing up again.

Due to the significant changes transpiring in the global banking sector, there are more options than ever for you as a banking customer. Have you recently changed banks? What was your experience? If not, what is stopping you? Let us know in the comments below!

This entry was posted on Saturday, May 5th, 2018 at 12:00 pm and is filed under Banking. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.