Customers expect seamless online experiences, secure transactions, and responsive service.
Unfortunately, not all banks are keeping up with these expectations. After testing multiple institutions, here’s a list of banks and credit unions that are simply not cutting it. If you’re considering opening an account, think twice before choosing these options.
1. PNC Bank
What’s wrong?
PNC Bank’s technology feels like a relic of the past. The online interface looks like it was designed in 1995 and hasn’t been updated since. Essential features are either outdated or missing entirely, leaving little incentive to stay with this bank. The clunky interface makes everyday banking a chore.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for a bank with modern features, PNC Bank will leave you frustrated and searching for alternatives.
2. MidFirst Bank
What’s wrong?
MidFirst suffers from many of the same issues as PNC Bank: an outdated back end and lack of functionality. The user experience is basic at best, with no standout features to make up for its shortcomings. Compared to larger banks, it’s hard to find a compelling reason to bank here.
Verdict:
MidFirst feels like a step backward in banking. There’s no reason to settle when better options exist.
3. U.S. Bank
What’s wrong?
U.S. Bank fares slightly better than PNC and MidFirst, but it still struggles to keep up with major players like Chase and Amex. While its platform is functional, it lacks the polish and advanced tools found in other banks’ digital offerings. Mercury, a smaller financial platform, even manages to outshine U.S. Bank in terms of usability and innovation.
Verdict:
For a mid-tier option, U.S. Bank may work—but why settle for average when other banks offer superior services?
4. Sunflower Bank (Credit Union)
What’s wrong?
Sunflower Bank has major cybersecurity concerns. A banker once asked me to send personally identifiable information (PII) over plain text email—a glaring red flag. After requesting secure communication, it became clear their processes aren’t designed with security in mind. On top of that, the back end is subpar, and their debit cards frequently deny legitimate transactions for no apparent reason.
Verdict:
When a bank fails at basic security measures, it’s not worth the risk. Sunflower Bank’s lack of functionality and security issues are deal breakers.
5. Wings Credit Union
What’s wrong?
The experience with Wings Credit Union was a nightmare from the start. The sign-up process was unnecessarily complicated—you can’t apply over the phone, and the web interface is painfully slow. After submitting my application, it took them weeks to send a denial without providing a clear reason. Their inefficiency made it clear that customer service and responsiveness are not priorities.
Verdict:
If you value your time, Wings Credit Union isn’t worth the hassle. Slow systems and poor communication make this one to avoid.
Why These Banks Don’t Make the Cut
Banking in 2024 is all about convenience, security, and innovation. The banks and credit unions on this list fall short in one or more critical areas:
- Outdated Technology: A user interface that belongs in the ’90s is unacceptable in today’s competitive market.
- Poor Security Practices: Asking customers to send sensitive information over unsecured channels is a major red flag.
- Lack of Features: In a world where banks like Chase and Amex offer robust tools and perks, these institutions provide little incentive to stick around.
- Inconvenient Processes: Whether it’s slow applications or denied transactions, these banks create unnecessary roadblocks.
The Bottom Line
With so many banks and fintech platforms offering innovative solutions, there’s no reason to settle for mediocrity. Banks like Chase, Amex, and even niche platforms like Mercury provide a better overall experience. Avoiding the banks on this list will save you time, frustration, and, in some cases, potential security risks.
Choose a bank that invests in its technology, values your time, and prioritizes your security—because you deserve better.
