Banks have had a rough spot the past couple of years. Between mergers and changing fees structures, consumers are searching for a solution that they can trust. It can be very confusing keeping track of who's doing what to determine the best choice for you, but here are some key points to consider that might be helpful in making a decision:

• Evaluate Your Needs – Do you need online banking? Do you have direct deposits? How many transactions do you typically make in a month? How much of a balance do you typically carry?
• Is "Small Local" Better Than "Large National?" – If your financial needs require more personal communication, than you might consider a local credit union or institution instead of a large chain.
• Don't be Swayed by Give Aways or Specials – Realize that these are only temporary and that initial offerings will likely have limits. Be clear on what happens when the initial offering expires.

For additional resources on institutions, you can always check the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) regarding information about deposit insurance and consumer protection or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), at consumerfinance.gov.