Why Starting Fresh Might Be Easier Than You Think
How long have you been a customer at your bank? Five years? Ten to fifteen years? Forever? For most people, it’s a long-term commitment. You might change phone companies, switch your electricity provider, or alternate between pay TV subscription services monthly.
But switching banks?
For many people, deciding to switch banks can feel like a daunting task. Just the thought of moving accounts, updating automatic payments, and learning new online systems can feel like more trouble than it's worth—even if they're unhappy with their current bank.
However, staying with a financial institution that no longer meets your needs may be holding you back from getting the service, benefits, and convenience you deserve. The truth is, leaving one bank for another, or choosing to join a credit union can be easier than you think.
Here’s why it might be worth considering and what to keep in mind during the process.
Why You Should Consider a Financial Switch
Better Fees and Interest Rates
Many people stick with a bank that charges high fees simply because they’ve always banked there. But these fees can add up, eating into your savings or increasing costs for basic banking services. At the Ashland Community Credit Union, better rates and lower fees are a major benefit of membership.
Customer Service and Satisfaction
Feeling like just another number? A bank’s customer service can make or break your banking experience. If you’ve experienced poor service, long wait times, or unhelpful responses, you deserve better. At a credit union, you’re an owner, not a number, and that in itself means we care about what you have to say. No matter who you choose, customer satisfaction should be a requirement.
Modern Technology and Convenience
With more banks offering advanced online and mobile banking features, it's essential to have access to tools that make managing your money easier. If your bank’s app is outdated, or if you find their online system cumbersome, a new bank may offer more convenient and secure ways to handle your finances on the go. At the Ashland Community Credit Union, our mobile app is state-of-the-art. You deserve a better experience.
What’s Involved in Switching Banks?
Switching banks doesn't have to be a complicated process. At the Ashland Community Credit Union, we help lots of people just like you join as members. It’s really not that hard. Do this:
- Research and Choose Your New Institution
Start by researching banks and credit unions that meet your needs. We hope you’ll choose ours, but your needs are what’s important, and you do have options. Consider what’s most important to you: low fees, high interest rates, excellent customer service, the credibility of ownership as a member, or modern mobile banking. Look at reviews, ask friends or family for recommendations, and compare account features. One great way to do this is to drop in to the lobby. We’ll look forward to saying “HI”. - Open Your New Account
Once you've found a new financial home, open your new account. No more needs to be said here because it’s really that easy. - Transfer Your Funds
Move your funds from your old account to your new one. This can be done via electronic transfer, or you can withdraw the money and deposit it into the new account. We can help with this step. - Update Automatic Payments and Deposits
For many, this is the most daunting step, but it’s really not that hard. Go through your accounts and make a list of automatic activities. Update the information and you’re all set. It might take some time, but you’ll find it’s easier than you think. Bonus: You’ll probably uncover some forgotten subscriptions or automatic payments that you don’t even need anymore, which can save you money. - Close Your Old Account
After you’ve ensured no remaining transactions exist, it’s ok to close the old account.
At the Ashland Community Credit Union, we know you worry about making the switch. But trust us. It works out, and it’s almost always to the new member's benefit. A little attention to detail to join now is rewarded with lower loan interest rates, higher savings interest rates, easier loan terms, and a feeling of belonging that simply doesn’t exist in big banks.
They say the only constant is change. So don’t let fear hold you back from doing the right thing for you, especially when it comes to money. Make the switch to get what’s best for you. Because what’s best for you is all anyone should want.
