The question was asked about what criteria I used to chose my bank. Here is a brief synopsis for those interested.

When I originally chose National Exchange for my personal banking several years ago, I did so after researching and interviewing nearly every institution in the local area. The reasons I ended up favoring then for a personal account were nearly all relevant for a business account as well.

Here is a quick list of the most significant factors in my decision: branch locations and hours, quality of the privacy policy, free checking, low minimum balance requirements, locally owned and operated, flexible customer support, online banking features, and their willingness to tailer to my requests for exceptions.

On several occasions I have had unusual requests, and every time they have diligently attended to my needs. When I opened my business account, they even voluntarily waived the minimum balance requirement for the first six months to help me out with my business. I feel like I have a relationship with my bank, not just a contract. That is extremely valuable to me.

My preception of other banks was mostly how nitpicky they seems to be about charging for things. Most banks when I looked up information about business checking accounts presented me with confusing, cookie-cutter “packages” to choose from. Since none of the packages ever fit you precisely, you are always forced to make some kind of compromise (either is giving up features or paying for ones you don’t need). 

There is something to be appreciated about the simple approach of getting everything you need in one flexible plan without having to play games.