Banks and credit unions (Phoenix, Page: good credit, home, transfer)

[ComputerGuy]

Hello all, I've posted here before about moving to AZ and I'm thinking ahead about my financial needs. I'm a member of the local credit union here in Jacksonville, FL called Vystar Credit Union. I know that I'm going to have to change financial institutions and I'm not really interested in large banks.

I see that Bank of America is prevalent in Phoenix, but what large credit unions are in the area? I'm wondering if there is some way that I can open an account without having to actually live in the area. The way everything is so global now, there may not be location restrictions.

Thanks for any help.

[Greatday]

Originally Posted by ComputerGuy

Hello all, I've posted here before about moving to AZ and I'm thinking ahead about my financial needs. I'm a member of the local credit union here in Jacksonville, FL called Vystar Credit Union. I know that I'm going to have to change financial institutions and I'm not really interested in large banks.

I see that Bank of America is prevalent in Phoenix, but what large credit unions are in the area? I'm wondering if there is some way that I can open an account without having to actually live in the area. The way everything is so global now, there may not be location restrictions.

Thanks for any help.

Last question first (opening an account) - I have not a clue if you can do it from there. My suggestion is to contact an institution you are interested in and ask them

There are quite a few Credit Unions in Arizona / Phoenix. Some of the Large one include Desert Schools Federal, Arizona Federal Credit Union

You might check the NCUA website for more info

[ComputerGuy]

Thanks, I actually called my credit union and even though they are local they said that I could have opened an account from another state. It would have been an arduous task (sending in a photo id, SS, and more paperwork), but it could happen.

I can keep my account with them even when I move, but I really think I may need another bank. I'll check out those names that you sent, thanks.

[wit-nit]

Bank of America, avoid it. Any large bank chain I would avoid. Credit Unions are the best way to go. Good and friendly personal service, good rates. There are many good Credit Unions in AZ, check the Yellow Pages, you can't go wrong.

[Bummer]

Originally Posted by ComputerGuy

I can keep my account with them even when I move, but I really think I may need another bank. I'll check out those names that you sent, thanks.

Good idea, ComputerGuy

Nowadays with everything being done electronically and/or online, what difference does it make where your bank is located?

I have an account with a local Credit Union but I've kept my account from "back home" that I've had for years. My money goes in electronically and comes out electronically (faster than in) and they have a website so it really doesn't matter where they're physically located.

My suggestion would to wait until you settle out here so you will be able to open an account close to home or work.

[sassieb75]

Arizona Federal Credit Union has what they call "shared branches" so you could open an account at one in your hometown and then eventually transfer it all over once you are here. You need to go their website or PM me and I will give you the name of a local branch near you....

[sablebaby]

I've had Bank of America (Bofa) for years with very little problems. I like them as there's a lot of them around. My BF also has them but also has his car payments through Desert Schools Credit Union and they seem pretty good.

[desertsun41]

BOA are communists. They treat you like a number and a robot. They will allow anyone to open an account without a SS # as long as your name is
Rodriguez.

Stick with non banks but you already know this being that you worked for a Credit Union.

At least they treat you a little like a human.

Stay away from WAMU also. Some Bleep! hacked into my account and stole every penny I had in the whole world. WAMU will not make good on it. So I filed criminal charges on them and they in turn reported me to ChexSystems which makes me ineligable to open another bank account anywhere. One thing you do not do is mess with a bank. They will get the last word.

There are very few laws written to protect the consumer against internet fraud. So you are on your own. The banks do not want any laws that obligate them to refund losses. And we all know banks make all the rules.

[Bummer]

Originally Posted by desertsun41

BOA are communists. They treat you like a number and a robot. They will allow anyone to open an account without a SS # as long as your name is Rodriguez.

LOL . . . great point, desertsun!

The primary reason I made the decision to close my BofA accounts after many many years!

[MaxPower123]

Originally Posted by desertsun41

They will allow anyone to open an account without a SS #

Whats wrong with that? I thought SSN were only for you, your employer and govt. to know