Hassle-Free Banking (Finally!)
Written: Nov 13 '07 (Updated Nov 19 '07)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Great promotional rates, no hassle, excellent website, great rewards
Cons: Only that I had used other banks before Citibank
The Bottom Line: Hassle free banking and great rewards. I highly recommend Citibank to anyone, for any banking need.
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| noangels's Full Review: Citibank |
After almost 2 years, 2 checking accounts, and 2 savings accounts, I can honestly say I have been completely satisfied with Citibank.
How I Became a Customer
At the time I opened my current accounts, I was fed up with banks. My previous bank had given me nothing but a headache. The fees had been absurd. They had shut off my debit card because they “suspected” my account was “compromised.” Apparently their idea of notifying me of the inactivation was a missed phone call (no message) and because I was mainly writing checks, I did not find out until my vacation a month later. I spent 30 minutes on the phone in my hotel room getting transferred back and forth between branches, repeatedly being told my “account was in good standing.” Eventually someone was able to see that the card had been frozen. Don’t ask me why they wouldn’t send a letter in addition to a phone call, especially since they never spoke to me or anyone else in my household.
The search for a new bank started shortly after my fiance proposed. We wanted to open joint checking and savings accounts to pay out all of our wedding expenses. My fiance was also dissatisfied with his bank and planned to relocate his checking and savings accounts. We chose Citibank because of their 5% interest E-Savings account promotion. It was a deal we couldn’t pass up, with most interest rates we were seeing being only 0.25%. It was also convenient that my fiance’s company’s accounts were at Citibank, meaning his checks would go in like cash, but this was not a major factor in our decision.
The Accounts
We opened a total of 2 checking accounts and 2 E-Savings accounts. Both the checking and savings account had to be opened together, online, to receive the promotional interest rate. This was a very easy process and only a $5 deposit was required to open each account. This could be done by electronic transfer from external accounts or by check; both free of cost. We chose to set them up electronically, which was quick and easy. Within a few days we received our welcome packets, checks, and debit cards. The debit cards have Mastercard logos, allowing them to be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
There aren’t any stipulations associated with these accounts. We are required to maintain no minimum balance. Fees are reasonable. There is an automatic overdraft with a very small fee. The money to cover the check comes right out of the savings account. These “online accounts” work just like any other account. We do most of our business in one of our local branches.
Rewards
Both of our accounts are part of Citibank’s “Thank You Network.” Points are earned for using your debit card, setting up direct deposit, and paying bills online through Citibank. Promotions are run that help you earn more points from certain merchants, including well-known, national retailers such as bestbuy.com, and target.com, sears.com. I’m definitely looking forward to the extra perks from my Christmas shopping. The point exchange is reasonable and the rewards are extremely varied. Magazine subscriptions, electronics, gift cards, charity donations, cash, and statement credits are just some of the rewards you can earn. You can link any of your accounts together, so a Citibank Credit Card can earn you points as well. The “Thank You Network” site is very easy to navigate. Your points are updated quickly and redeeming them is easy.
Customer Service
I have experienced Citibank’s customer service both in person and over the phone. In their branches, I have found the customer service to be courteous and helpful. The same can be said for their phone service. I’ve only had to call them twice; once to reorder checks and another to ask a question. Both times, my call was dealt with quickly and efficiently.
Online Account Management
Citibank’s website is impressive. I can’t think of any features it lacks and it is easy to navigate. I can access my accounts 24/7 and perform most tasks at any time. I can transfer electronically between my checking and my savings accounts, and the tranfers occur instantly. The online account summary is easy to read. Checks can be reordered online (after your first reorder which must be placed by phone). You can also set up online bill payments with ease. The website is also an excellent source of information. It is rare that I cannot find an answer to a question I have about my account.
Brick and Mortar Locations
This will obviously vary by area. Where I am located, on Staten Island, Citibanks are quite abundant. The locations are nice and well maintained. Lines aren't too bad at most times (avoid the bank at lunch). There are plenty of 24 hour ATM locations. The ATMs are kept up to date. The touch screens can be annoying at times, but it really isn't anything to complain about.
Recommendation
I have been very pleased with my Citibank accounts and plan to keep my business with them for the foreseeable future. With 5% interest on my savings account and hassle-free banking, I couldn’t be happier.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
noangels
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 in Online Stores & Services |
 - Top 1000 |
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Member: Jamilynn
Location: Staten Island, NY USA
Reviews written: 226
Trusted by: 42 members
About Me:
So glad to almost be done with Christmas shopping!
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