First Federal Savings And Loan By sizwizz on Jun 01, 2008 - Updated Oct 15, 2011

I bank at a community bank in McMinnville, Oregon. It's a local banking institution with locations limited to the Yamhill County area. I opened bank accounts with them back in 1977, when I first moved into the area from another state.

My husband and I have had as many as 5 checking, and savings accounts with them over the years. There have been very few problems, and when there were, they were dealt with immediately. One time, deposits were lost due to another bank's error. An employee at my bank worked on the issue for two weeks, always keeping me informed as to what the progress was on the situation. In the end, she got to the bottom if it, and I was credited with the deposits.

The interest rates are competitive, however online banking always beats the "brick building" rates. I can access all of my accounts online so it makes transferring money between accounts easy. When I'm not at a computer, I can log into my account by phone and manage my money. They've made it simple enough so you can check your accounts anytime, and anywhere. You don't need any 'whiz-bang' special account to use these banking features; my accounts are standard checking and savings. Oh--and did I mention I can use my debit card too?

I don't live in Yamhill County anymore, but I still bank with First Federal. It has that 'small town' feel to it that you can't experience from a "big box" bank. I might just stay with them forever!!