Guide to Retail Banks in New York

New York retail banks offer something for every business

By Marianne Moro, Freelance Writer

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

Open an account with a national chain that offers New York retail banking services.

Walk down Madison Avenue, Fifth Avenue, or any other street in Midtown Manhattan and you'll find large branches or headquarters for most major American bank chains. If you live in or near Manhattan, or travel there often to do business, choose one of these Manhattan retail banks for complete and efficient corporate services. Also consider the fact that these banks have branches and ATMs in upstate New York as well.

I recommend: Contact Bank of America at any of its retail banks - New York locations, for asset management, private equity investments and other services. Check out Chase Manhattan for all basic business services, plus their premium payroll program.

Find NYC retail banks headquartered in other companies

Since New York City serves as the epicenter of the international banking industry, you'll find international institutions from many countries have retail banking services in New York.

I recommend: Look at institutions like Cathay Bank, which has offices in the Pacific Rim and Hong Kong as well as New York City for small business and commercial needs with a international edge. Contact UK-based Barclays Bank via their Park Avenue offices if you do business in London or the United Kingdom.

Find New York retail bank companies with a smaller reach than national chains and similar service

Many New York and New York City banks offer excellent services such as business investments, e-commerce and wire transfer even though their New York retail banking services are mostly regional, not international in scope.

I recommend: Look for New York Commercial Bank branches or Atlantic Bank branches, both located in Manhattan, the boroughs and Long Island. Consider Dime Savings Bank, with locations in Kings, Bronx, Queens and Nassau County if you do business in the boroughs or Long Island.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  There are literally hundreds of different banking and financial companies in Manhattan, especially in Midtown and the Wall Street district. Spend a few hours in this area to visit and compare Manhattan retail banks in person, not online.