1. Three Banks in Aiken, SC Security Federal Bank, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America

2. Personal Criteria Everyone needs something different out of a bank. Insurance I prefer a bank where my money is federally insured by the FDIC. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insures money in whole up to 250K. If credit union, NCUA. Financial Counseling It’s a plus when a bank has additional services, like financial counseling. This consists of advice and programs to teach new-comers the best way to bank. Low to No Fees I hate fees! Some banks can find a reason to charge you for breathing their air (not really). I want a bank that has FAIR fees, if any. Customer Service When I go to a restaurant, which I don’t usually do, because I’m poor, I expect to have kind and helpful waiters/waitresses. Same for the bank I will choose.

3. Security Federal Bank Fees/Charges The minimum to open a normal account is $100 at SFB and the safe deposit box costs money (no discounts) for regular accounts. Overdraft protection is available, the ATM is free, as well as the ATM card, VISA check card, and online banking. And there is no charge if minimum isn’t met. Services Personal checking, business checking, savings account, online/mobile banking, check reorder, health savings account, bank-by-phone. Financial counseling, business and personal loans, home and auto insurance, and trust and investments. HONESTY in code of ethics.

6. Wells Fargo Services Online/mobile banking, retirement, mutual funds, investments, ID theft protection, savings and checking accounts, student loan, business loan, personal loan, auto loan, and home lending (mortgage, equity). Overdraft protection. Fees/Charges Account activity fees: $1 debit card activity and $1 ATM statement fee. Fee of $12.50 on savings account overdrafts. $3 monthly charge for unlimited access and transfers with online banking.

8. Bank of America Multinational 2 nd largest bank-holding company and 3 rd largest company in the world One of the Big Four (with Citigroup, JP Morgan, Chase, and Wells Fargo)

9. Services Savings accounts, online/mobile banking, student banking, mortgage/home loan, business checking accounts, business credit cards, ATM, investments, home/auto/life insurance, and health savings accounts.