The right commercial bank in Hawaii can really help your business to succeed. Many Hawaiian banks are available to take care of your needs.

When banking in Hawaii, you want to choose a bank that provides a wealth of Hawaii banking services to business owners. Besides simply storing your financial assets and allowing you to pay for bills, look for Hawaii banks that will also process credit cards, offer business credit cards, and offer commercial loans. These are just a few of the services that you will need to do commercial banking in Hawaii.

When choosing among the banks in Hawaii, you should:

1. Consider the "aloha" factor. Local Hawaiian banks will offer more personalized services than mainland banks.
2. Know whether you will do business outside of Hawaii. For companies that do business out of state, nationwide banks are often a better choice.
3. Decide what services you are looking for in a bank. Banks in HI offer different services. Make sure that you choose a bank that offers all of the services that you need and does not charge you for the services that you do not use.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose local banks in Hawaii for the 'aloha spirit'

As Hawaiian institutions, local Hawaiian banks understand the unique needs of Hawaii's business owners. You are more likely to find an aloha spirit at one of Hawaii's own banks.

I recommend: First Hawaiian Bank offers many business services, as does Hawaii National Bank. Mahalo for keeping your business in Hawaii.

Choose a nationwide bank if you will travel to the mainland

If you often travel to the mainland, then it may be more convenient to use a bank that has branches in many states. You should try to find a bank that has branches both in Hawaii and on the mainland.

I recommend: Most mainland banks do not have banks in Hawaii. Wachovia Bank has a branch at Ala Moana and they can take care of your business needs.

Use the online banking services offered by Hawaii banks to save time and money

Many business owners are simply too busy to make a trip to the bank. Online banking helps to solve this problem. You can also save money on stamps by paying your bills with the online payment processor.

I recommend: Almost all banks offer online banking. First Hawaiian Bank, for example, allows you to sign up from their website. Ask your bank if they provide this service.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure you understand the fees when banking in Hawaii. There are different charges associated with different types of transactions. By understanding how you will use your account, you can help to minimize the charges. Ask your account representative which account level is right for you.
• •  Local Hawaii banks have locations on all of the islands for your convenience.
• •  If possible, choose a commercial bank in Hawaii that is close to your business. This will make it easy to travel to the bank for transactions.