Need advice on a new credit card and checking account !

[KiLLaZ]

I'm looking to switch both my checking account and credit card to a different bank, as I had them both for the same bank and they just recently shafted me. I guess they don't need to be both from the same bank now... Could anyone give me some good suggestions to look into?

- Good online access to view the current status of my account is necessary. (so I don't buy too much computer hardware )
- No annual fee
- I don't carry a balance on my CC's, so APR is not a big deal.
- A good "REWARDS" would be nice (Cash back, Airtime miles, etc.)
- Local access to the checking account (I live in the NY/NJ metro area, so that shouldn't be a problem with the major banks)

Thanks in advance for the suggestions!

 

[John]

Wells Fargo?

 

[DaveJ]

I have both checking and credit with Wells Fargo and it's really not bad... dunno about the APR, I really don't care about that. It's nice being able to pay your monthly bill in 3 seconds though...

The one thing they do that sorta annoys me though... I use my credit card almost exclusively online (except for a few incidentals), and in the 6 months I've had the card their "Fraud" division has contacted me twice trying to verify the charges made were mine. That's a good idea, but the last time they totally shut down my account without my knowledge or consent. Apparently they had tried for "weeks" to get ahold of me on the phone (funny how there were no messages on the machine), but resorted to cutting it off to get my attention... Once I called them they reactivated the card instantly, so their CS reps are not bad. Overall it's a good card, but mine doesn't offer any side benefits like you want.

I'll be watching this thread, because I'm on the lookout for the exact same thing...

Dave

 

[erub]

Most of the reward cards cost an annual fee. For example, Citibank's famous American Airlines card costs $50 a year, and you get 1 mile for every $1 you charge. I think that AMEX Blue card gives you mileage with no annual fee - they have good online info, including their own free ISP

 

[JellyBaby]

<< I don't carry a balance on my CC's, so APR is not a big deal. >>

I suggest shopping for the highest rate you can find to help you continue that behavior.

 

[woodie1]

If you qualify, a Credit Union is usually the best for low costs with a checking account. They are very competitive in the credit card arena too.