Citibank - Basic Checking

Average Score:

•   So GREAT!

  I’ve had my Citibank Checking Account for 3 years. I originally opened it up when I moved to New York City. There was a branch on the corner of my block, and many throughout the city - easy access was my top priority. I now live in Montana, where there are no Citibanks but I still use this as my primary bank account because of other features that have since won out over “convenient location.”

  I have a local Montana bank that I basically just use for the sake of the ATM’s. I then do online transfers of most of the money from my Montana bank into my Citibank account. Which brings me to the first point of appeal of a Citi account – the online banking. I am very impressed with the ease of use of Citi’s online banking. Transfers from my other account are quick, easy and free. I pay ALL my bills online, and even use it to send personal checks to friends and family. The advantage of online bill pay is, of course ease, no need to find a stamp, envelope, mailbox etc… However, I find the ability to track payment history very helpful too. And, automatic bill pay is awesome for someone forgetful like me!

  Linked to my account is a “Checking Plus” account, which basically acts as overdraft protection with a $500 line of credit. If it needs to automatically draw from this, it charges a $10 fee, but if you set the transfer up yourself, then you are only charged interest on the amount borrowed. This has been very helpful for me in the past, as I do not have a credit card, and I have been able to use this to make a few purchases that I wouldn’t have been able to afford otherwise.

  The last great thing I will mention about my Citi account is their ‘Thank You’ rewards system. The points add up fast. You can use your points toward lots of things, from airline miles to barbecue grills. But I use them toward paying off my student loans.

  My overall feeling about my Citi account is so great, that I really have no negatives to report, other than the fact that it doesn’t have a Montana location, but I get around that just fine. I definitely recommend it!
  

  Posted by coolbeann -- July 13, 2009