the Price of Online Banking

I pay a $5.95 monthly fee for my checking account and part of this fee gives me unlimited online access to my account.

I think the quality of my bank's online service is extremely high. I have done online banking with three previous banks -- all basic checking -- and have found that what I am currently being offered is far superior. The online site is easy to use, has a multiple of formats that can be displayed on the computer screen or downloaded and printed out, and has a variety of features that I actually take advantage of. With the other banks that I used previously, I found that I was paying a fee just to check my balance, essentially. They were either too confusing or required to much time to access the services that I wanted.

Ease of use is the most important thing to look for when considering online banking. I know many people are nervous that their information somehow might get into the wrong hands, but I have found that this is no longer my primary concern. Overall, if the site is not easily accessible and easily understandable, it won't matter how much or how little you pay to use it -- it won't be worth it.

Another important issue to consider when looking for online banking is what features you will most take advantage of. Do you want to use it primarily to view your statements online, or will you use it for bill pay? Most banks now provide at least limited access to online banking as part of their basic accounts, so I would look for one that does not charge much more than what I am paying.