Banking
Looking for a new bank? Trying to optimize your savings strategy? Just curious to learn more about how banks operate? LendEDU’s team of financial writers and certified experts are here to help with in-depth educational articles and honest, data-based banking product reviews.
LendEDU's Highest-Rated Banks of 2025
The LendEDU editorial ratings below reflect our team’s current analysis of 400 data points across 27 banking institutions and reflects how highly we recommend each institution to consumers based on these security metrics along with customer reviews, mobile experience, savings account interest rates, costs and fees, and more.
Learn About Banks
Best Banks and Credit Unions That Don't Use Chexsystems
Most banks and credit unions use ChexSystems as part of their account approval process, but not all. Some even offer second-chance checking accounts for people who have been denied accounts elsewhere due to their ChexSystems report. See our roundup here.
Safest Banks in the U.S. for 2025
Looking for secure banking options? This guide highlights the most trustworthy banks in the United States, focusing on FDIC protection, financial stability, consumer ratings, and institutional strength.
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Is Your Money Safe in the Bank?
This guide breaks down the protections in place to keep your money secure, including FDIC and NCUA insurance, bank balance limits, and how to check if your financial institution is regulated.
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What Happens When a Bank Fails?
Bank failures are rare, but they do happen. This article explains what it means when a bank collapses, how the FDIC steps in to protect depositors, and what you should do if your bank is at risk.
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What Is Debanking?
Debanking is when a bank decides to close an account, usually without advance notice. It’s recently gotten mainstream attention in the news. In August 2025, the White House issued an executive order to prevent banks from closing accounts illegally. We’ll explain the current controversy about debanking and share what to do if this happens to you.
Mobile Bank Reviews
Varo Bank: 2025 Review
Varo offers a comprehensive suite of mobile-first banking products, including checking, savings, a secured credit card, cash advances, and a cashback debit card. With no monthly fees, a strong ATM network, and full FDIC insurance, Varo stands out as a legit all-digital bank built for modern users.
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Current vs Chime vs Varo: 2025 Comparison
This head-to-head comparison breaks down three leading fintech apps—Current, Chime, and Varo. See how they stack up on fees, features, savings tools, credit-building options, and more to help you choose the best mobile banking app.
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Chime: 2025 Review
Chime is one of the most popular challenger banks in the U.S., offering fee-free banking with perks like early direct deposit, credit-building tools, and no overdraft fees.
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Current App: 2025 Review
Current is a flexible mobile banking app designed for people on the go—including teens, families, and solo spenders.
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