I've banked with SBBT since 1998 and have been for the most part been quite satisfied with the service and professionalism of the staff. I have a simple savings and checking account. But a week ago I received a statement stating that SBBT would adding a $11-15 monthly service charge to my account since it falls below the minimum of $5,000. I do not have this issue with other banks I deal with primarily in New Mexico however. I am disappointed that SBBT has resorted to using BofA extortion tactics to increase their bottom line and I am now in the process of shopping around for another Santa Barbara bank to do business with that will not try to scalp or gouge me. That process led me to this site. I also have direct deposit with SBBT but this seems to make no difference in regards to their new monthly service charge policy. Fortunately there are other more reasonable banks to choose from, or at least I hope so. Because the banksters and banks own the politicians, they are allowed to screw the consumer. Banks are controlled by the 1%. They control Congress. This is a conflict of interest and should be halted. SBBT seems to falling in line with the greed of the 1%. It's too bad.
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