8/27/2015

Goodbye, Bank. Hello, Credit Union

Dear Bank,

Telling you this isn't easy. I really don't know what to say. Life has been good between us for a few years but things are changing now. Our relationship has lasted longer than a lot of other relationships. The fact is Bank, that things are changing for both of us. Neither of us are who we used to be anymore. I haven't fully decided to leave yet but I think it's time for me to start seeing someone else.

We've had our ups and downs haven't we Bank? I've trusted you with my deepest financial secrets. You have been there for me during the day and late at night. When my account was broken into you were there to tell me not to worry. That long night was followed by stressful days. You were right when you said it would work out okay. I appreciated that.

Lately though, I've just not been feeling the love. It's taking me longer to get through to speak to you. Now, just when you're needed the most you decide to slap me with extra fees.
The slap caused me to look around. It turns out that there are others out there who are willing to take your place. They are offering to do the same things for me that you did and more. The name is Credit Union.

You might be thinking that this is a sudden decision. Actually, I've been seeing Credit Union for some time now. I've trusted them with the tiny savings accounts of my children. They have been good to my kids and have demonstrated higher interest on savings than you have.

The lady behind the counter knows my family by name. When I call she always asks how the kids are doing in school. They have free bill pay, free online-based checking and oh yeah, free debit cards.
Then there's all the extra things that the Credit Union does for me. We're talking about things like free financial planning services, lower interest loans and a complimentary life insurance policy.

There is a membership fee that has to be paid. My Credit Union has a $25 dollar fee. This helps to keep the other services free. It doesn't matter how many accounts I have or how few. It's a one time deal on the cost. If I ever leave Credit Union will give the $25 bucks back.

Bank, I know that you want me to keep $500 or so in the bank to avoid fees. But the $25 is a lot easier for me right now. You know how it goes. Like everyone else I'm a little strapped. I'd ask for a loan but I'm pretty sure you'd turn me down. That's ok. You have to do what you have to do. That's why I do too.

Good-bye, Bank. Maybe I'll see you around sometime.

Note:
This article was written after the author did some comparison shopping between her bank and credit union. She ultimately decided that choosing the credit union was the best option for her in today's financial world climate.