STEP 1. Prepare a list of what you consider important features of your financial institution, which will likely include:

Services offered: checking and savings accounts; savings insurance; types of loans; investment services Costs, fees, earnings: interest on loans, credit cards; checking service charges; ATM fees; savings rates Convenience: local branches, hours of operation; ATM locations; customer service assistance Online banking: ease and speed of operation; services offered; privacy and security; fees or other charges