Best features of Canadian bank accounts

1. RBC Royal bank:
Its self-directed RRSP account waives $25 quarterly fee if one sets up an auto contribution of $100 per month. This is useful if one does not have big RRSP contribution room and not want to transfer it from elsewhere.

RBC has so-called multi-product rebate program. When one has above self-directed RRSP, he applies for a no-fee credit card, then he qualifies for a free "The Basics" chequing account. RBC now offers free email-transfers on all chequing account. Besides, as the major bank in Canada, its incoming wire transfer does not involve intermediate agent banks.

2. TD Canada Trust:
Main advantage of TD is that, some branches open till 8pm on special days, such as Thursdays, Fridays. This is convenient for working people to visit branch after coming back from work.

3. Simplii Financial:
Its chequing account is free of debit transactions. It also gives out free cheque-books. It is the direct banking division of CIBC. Previously the name was President's Choice Finance. After separating from President's Choice, it gives unlimited free e-transfer (Interac transfer).

4. Tangerine bank:
I like their online banking website very much. (1) They can link an external chequing or savings accounts electronically, i.e. by verifying two small deposits. (2) They give me $5,000 available fund right after I deposit a cheque, or initiate an in-ward fund transfer. Any amount above 5000 is still subject to holding.
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