Best bank account after arriving in the country

[MandEJ 46]

I've had a look through threads about bank accounts, but there is so much information and about so many different cases that don't really apply to me, I thought I'd just start a new topic.

So, I arrived on a K1 on the 19th, got married on the 26th and sent off my AOS application that same day.

I got my social security card through the mail and would like to open a bank account. So far, bad experiences. I don' have proof of address apart from the letter from the Social Security Office which sent me my card in the mail. I have passport (with the visa), I have the SSN, I have my marriage certificate. Husband and I will look into a joint account, but in the meantime I really just want to open the most basic checking account ever - what banks are good? Or at least, seem to understand immigrants.

I just want to move my money over because using my UK cards over here is incurring fees I'd like to avoid! And eventually once I can start working, I need a bank account to, you know, deposit paychecks into it!

I'm in NYC so in terms of bank availability, we're pretty well served here, so it's not like I'm against any one bank on the basis of few ATMs

[p-ana 933]

Bank of America, td bank and citizens bank are friendly from what I gathered in the monthly aos threads I've been active on.

[SAT 9,609]

Try Santander too. It's an immigrant bank to begin with.

[MandEJ 46]

Thank you both - I really wish this wasn't so difficult.

[Unlockable 7,314]

To be honest it will be a matter of personal preference.

Many people like Bank of America but I personally hate it. I had them for a couple of years. I can also pick up the phone and assemble about 20 people who feels the same. But I will say that most people I know who travel have Bank of America and it is well known to immigrants.

I have Chase, TDBank, and a federal credit union. By far the credit union is best. TDBank is very friendly and convenient. When traveling outside the US I use Chase if I need cash.

[MandEJ 46]

I actually went into Capital One this morning and was able to open a checking and saving account - they were confused as to why the computer was unhappy but clearly speaking to people was key. The account I have does have fees - but I also figure that in a month or two, I'll probably be about to open an account with Capital One 360 considering I am already a Capital customer, and I'll just be able to move over. The savings account is free, and I guess it's good to start saving ASAP

I'm still gutted in 2016 they've not found a way to transfer credit history over to different countries! Considering the major credit score companies operate in various countries.... But at least as soon as I get a job, I can transfer over my Amex account, which is good news!

Husband and I are opening a joint account with TD, but I want something of my own for ease of use. Well, I will say this in Capital's favor: they were very courteous in person. And if you live in NYC, their Union square branch is amazing and worth a visit - it's their new "concept bank" with a coffee shop and charging points!

[SAT 9,609]

Check out Citibank union square...

[Wurstbrot_Royal 29]

If your husband is with a credit union, try go there. Or try joining one for the joint account. I am very happy with our bank out here, but I don't think they're over on the east coast much.

We got a joined checking and secured credit card 2 years ago - now I transitioned to the proper credit card, have one additional one with Capital and am on a joint credit card with my husband. My score is pretty good. All within 2 years.

[RedSheep 0]

Don't do Charles Schwab! They want at least one ID issued by the US (driver's license, green card, passport etc) so as a new immigrant you can not open an account there. Quite discriminating.

[MsCompE 50]

Bank of America, td bank and citizens bank are friendly from what I gathered in the monthly aos threads I've been active on.

True. I opened my bank account with bank of america back then with my non-immigrant visa (B1/B2). They didnt even asked me for SSN just my passport and US mailing address. It didnt even matter if it is the neighbor's mailing address or somebody's office as long as you will be able to receive your actual debit card with that address.

[lostbutterfly 9]

Whatever you do.. Do not open a bank of America account.

Hidden fee's is what they specialize in.

I've had an account with them for 2 years as a Canadian travelling back and forth.

I plan to finally close my account once I return next week.