California retail banking is an old and established industry: You can't swing a dead cat without hitting someone involved in California retail banking services. But finding the right one from among the slew of California retail banks takes more than entering "retail banks in Northern California" or "retail banks in Southern California" into a search engine.
Retail banks in California are everywhere, so the dilemma is choosing the right one for your small business and personal needs. When looking for a retail bank and retail bank lenders in California, consider the following:
1. Large national banks are well-represented in California and have the advantage of locations throughout California, and in many other states.
2. If you prefer banking online, inquire about their Internet offerings.
3. Community banks in California may be more to your liking if you're a sole proprietor or small local business owner.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Pick a nationwide chain for retail banking in California
If you've decided that size matters and want the full range of retail services -- lines of credit, online banking, many ATMs, locations throughout the state and country that giant retail banks in California provide, choose one of the national chains to do your retail banking in California.
I recommend: Wachovia has California retail banks throughout the state, including multiple branches in major cities.
Wells Fargo is another national player with many California retail banks, as well as national locations.
Look for community banks in California that suit your needs
Some business people want retail banks in California that are based in the state, or smaller community banking options. If you choose to go with a smaller choice for your banking needs remember to find a California retail bank that has all the services and resources that you need. There are many California-based choices for your California retail banking needs; selecting one of the larger ones ensures that you get all the services offered by national chains.
I recommend: Union Bank of California and
California Bank & Trust both offer the full gamut of California retail banking services.
Find retail banks in California using online tools
If you're still not sure about your choice -- or need to decide between a few banks that sound good -- turn to the Internet to help you find a California retail bank that fits your needs. Directories and search engines can narrow the field. Searching online and exploring companies' websites is also a good way to compare the Internet services your respective options provide.
I recommend: Use
California Bank Directory or
The Community Banker to compare California retail banks.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- One of the best ways to find a California retail bank is to ask your friends. First-hand accounts regarding service, locations and dispute resolution from a trusted source can tell you a lot more about what the bank is really like than a slick brochure.
The official source of Retail Banks in California is
the Retail Banks in California page at Business.com
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