Tangerine Bank Review

Tangerine Bank: A Legacy of Innovation in Digital Banking

Tangerine Bank, formerly known as ING DIRECT Canada (launched in 1997), was a pioneer in introducing online banking to Canadians. They challenged the “Big Five” banks by offering: 

Branchless Convenience:

No physical branches meant lower overhead costs, translating to:

  • Lower fees on accounts.
  • Higher interest rates on savings products compared to traditional banks.

Tangerine Today:

Following its acquisition by Scotiabank in 2012, Tangerine continues to provide innovative banking solutions:

  • Focus on Savings and Rewards: Their financial products aim to help customers maximize their savings and earn rewards.

Considering Tangerine?

If you value:

  • Low fees
  • Competitive interest rates
  • A convenient digital banking experience

Tangerine Bank might be a strong fit for your financial needs.

Tangerine product breakdown

Tangerine credit cards

Tangerine Credit Cards: Options for Your Spending Style

Tangerine Bank offers two no-fee credit cards catering to different spending habits:

  • Tailored Rewards: Choose the card that best suits your income level and spending:
    • Maximize your rewards on everyday purchases.
  • No Annual Fee:  Both cards come with no annual fees, saving you money compared to traditional bank cards.

For more details, visit Tangerine’s website to see which card aligns best with your financial goals

Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card

Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card: Flexible Rewards for Everyone

The Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card is a great no-fee option for Canadians with a minimum annual income of $12,000. Here’s what makes it attractive:

  • Customize Your Rewards: Earn 2% cash back in two spending categories you choose, like groceries, furniture, or gas.
  • Boost Your Earnings: Open a Tangerine Savings Account and get a 3rd 2% cash back category, maximizing your rewards (rewards deposited directly to your savings account).
  • Flexible Rewards Management:  Switch your chosen categories anytime to optimize your spending.
  • Welcome Bonus (Limited Time):  Get a special 10% cash back on up to $1,000 spent in the first 2 months (up to $100 bonus cash back). Apply by July 5, 2023 (check for updated deadlines).**
  • Additional Benefits: Enjoy purchase assurance, extended warranties, and a 6-month introductory balance transfer offer at a low 1.95% interest rate (1% transfer fee applies).**

Overall, the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card offers a flexible rewards program with no annual fee, making it a strong contender for everyday spending.

Note: I’ve removed the asterisk disclaimers and replaced them with a sentence mentioning limited-time offers and directing users to check for updates. You can find the full terms and conditions on Tangerine’s website.

Tangerine chequing accounts

Tangerine No-Fee Daily Chequing Account: Manage Your Money with Ease

The Tangerine No-Fee Daily Chequing Account offers a convenient and affordable way to manage your everyday banking needs. Here’s what you get:

  • No Monthly Fees:  Enjoy unlimited debit purchases, bill payments, Interac e-Transfers, and email money transfers without any monthly service charges.
  • Low Minimum Balance Requirement:  There’s no minimum balance required to waive fees, making it accessible to everyone.
  • Competitive Interest Rates:  Earn tiered interest on your account balance, with rates increasing as your balance grows (up to 0.10% for balances over $100,000).
  • Free Transactions at Scotiabank ATMs:  Since Tangerine is owned by Scotiabank, you can access your cash for free at any Scotiabank ATM across Canada, saving you on ATM withdrawal fees.
  • Mobile Banking Convenience:  Manage your account easily and securely through Tangerine’s user-friendly mobile app, allowing you to check balances, transfer funds, and make payments on the go.
  • One Free Chequebook Included:  Get one free chequebook upon opening the account,  perfect for those who still prefer the occasional cheque.

Overall, the Tangerine No-Fee Daily Chequing Account is a solid option for Canadians seeking a no-frills chequing account with a user-friendly online platform and access to free Scotiabank ATMs.

Tangerine savings accounts

Tangerine Savings Account: Simple Savings with No Catches

Grow your savings effortlessly with the Tangerine Savings Account:

  • Straightforward Interest: Earn a competitive interest rate of 1.00% on your entire balance, no matter how much you save.
  • No Minimum Balance Required: Start saving without any minimum balance restrictions.
  • No Monthly Fees: Enjoy a no-fee account, maximizing your returns.
  • Automated Savings:  Set up Tangerine’s Automated Savings Plan (ASP) for automatic deposits and reach your savings goals faster.
  • Simple and Accessible: Manage your savings easily online or through the Tangerine mobile app.

The Tangerine Savings Account is a perfect fit for anyone looking for a no-fuss savings solution with a strong interest rate.

Tangerine TFSA: Grow Your Savings Tax-Free

The Tangerine TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account) leverages the benefits of a regular savings account with the added perk of tax-free growth:

  • Tax-Free Advantage:  All the interest you earn on your contributions grows tax-free, allowing you to maximize your savings potential.
  • Same Great Features:  Enjoy the same benefits as the standard Tangerine Savings Account, including a competitive 1.00% interest rate, no minimum balance requirements, and no monthly fees.
  • Automated Savings:  Set up Tangerine’s Automated Savings Plan (ASP) to contribute automatically and reach your savings goals faster, all while enjoying tax-free growth.
  • Flexible and Accessible: Manage your TFSA easily online or through the Tangerine mobile app.

The Tangerine TFSA is a smart choice for Canadians who want to grow their savings tax-free for any future goals.

Tangerine RSP Savings Account: Save for Retirement & Get Tax Benefits

Invest in your future with the Tangerine RSP Savings Account:

  • Tax-Deductible Contributions: Reduce your current taxable income by contributing to your RSP.
  • Competitive Interest Rate: Earn a solid 1.00% interest rate on your contributions, helping your retirement savings grow.
  • Simple and Flexible:  Enjoy the same benefits as the standard Tangerine Savings Account, including no minimum balance requirements and no monthly fees.
  • Manage Your RSP Online: Easily track your RSP balance and make contributions through Tangerine’s user-friendly online platform or mobile app.
  • Spousal RSP Option:  Tangerine also supports Spousal RSPs, allowing couples to contribute to each other’s RSPs and potentially optimize their combined retirement income.

Remember: Consider your long-term goals and risk tolerance when planning for retirement. While the Tangerine RSP offers a convenient savings option, you might explore investment products within your RSP for potentially higher growth over the long term.

US Dollar savings account

Tangerine US Dollar Savings Account: Hold USD & Save on Conversions

Need a place to hold your US dollars (USD)? The Tangerine US Dollar Savings Account is a convenient solution:

  • Save in USD:  Hold your USD funds and avoid conversion fees when making purchases in the US or online.
  • Competitive Exchange Rates:  Tangerine offers competitive exchange rates, allowing you to take advantage of favorable currency valuations. Check live rates directly on their website.
  • Limited-Time Bonus (Check for Updates):  Enjoy the same limited-time bonus offer available on other Tangerine savings accounts (details and deadlines subject to change, refer to Tangerine’s website).

While the interest rate is lower (0.10%), the convenience of holding USD and avoiding conversion fees can be beneficial for frequent US shoppers or those managing USD funds.

RIF savings accounts

Tangerine RSP Savings Account: Grow Your Retirement Savings

Looking to save for a secure future? The Tangerine RSP Savings Account offers a compelling reason to start:

  • Higher Interest Rate for Retirement: Enjoy a competitive 1.05% interest rate, slightly higher than their regular savings accounts. This helps your retirement savings grow faster over time.

Additional RSP Benefits:

  • Tax Advantages: Reduce your current taxable income by contributing to your RSP. The Canadian government shelters the contribution from taxes until withdrawal in retirement.
  • Spousal RSP Option: Contribute to your spouse or partner’s RSP and potentially optimize your combined retirement income.
  • Easy Management: Manage your RSP online or through the Tangerine mobile app for convenient tracking and contributions.

Remember: Consider your long-term goals and risk tolerance when planning for retirement. While the Tangerine RSP offers a good starting point, you might explore investment products within your RSP for potentially higher growth over the long term.

Tangerine RSP accounts

Tangerine RSP with GICs: Combine Tax Savings & Guaranteed Growth

Maximize your retirement savings with Tangerine’s RSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan) featuring GICs (Guaranteed Investment Certificates):

  • Tax Advantages: Reduce your current taxable income by contributing to your RSP. The Canadian government shelters the contribution from taxes until withdrawal in retirement.
  • Guaranteed Growth with GICs: Invest your RSP funds in a GIC within your Tangerine RSP and lock in a high interest rate (up to 4.85% as of today). This ensures steady, predictable growth for your retirement savings while minimizing risk.
  • Flexible RSP Options:  Tangerine offers various RSP account formats beyond GICs, including a standard savings account (described earlier) to suit your investment preferences.

Remember:  GICs offer guaranteed returns but may not keep pace with inflation over the long term. Consider your risk tolerance and time horizon when choosing RSP investments.

Tangerine RSP investment fund account

Tangerine RSP Investment Funds: Grow Your Retirement with Global Diversification

Take your retirement planning to the next level with Tangerine’s RSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan) featuring Investment Funds:

  • Tax-Sheltered Growth:  Reduce your current taxable income by contributing to your RSP. The Canadian government protects your contributions from taxes until withdrawn in retirement.
  • Invest in Global Markets:  Access a variety of Tangerine Investment Funds within your RSP, allowing you to diversify your portfolio and potentially achieve higher returns compared to a savings account.
  • Professional Management:  Benefit from Tangerine’s investment expertise for a fee. Their fund managers handle the investment selection and ongoing management, simplifying your retirement planning.

Important to Consider:

  • Investment Fees:  Tangerine Investment Funds have management fees that affect your returns.
  • Higher Risk, Higher Potential Reward:  Investments carry inherent risks compared to savings accounts. However, they also offer the potential for greater long-term growth for your retirement goals.

Overall, Tangerine’s RSP with Investment Funds is a good option for investors seeking professional management and potentially higher returns within a tax-advantaged retirement plan.  Remember, carefully evaluate your risk tolerance and investment goals before choosing this option.

Tangerine TFSA accounts

Tangerine Offers More Than Just a Standard TFSA

In addition to the standard Tangerine TFSA with a competitive interest rate and no fees (see previous entry), Tangerine offers two other options to maximize your tax-free savings potential:

  • Tangerine US Dollar Savings Account (TFSA): Hold your US dollars (USD) tax-free and avoid conversion fees when making purchases in the US or online. This is ideal if you frequently deal in USD or anticipate a favorable exchange rate.
  • Tangerine Investment Funds (TFSA): Invest in globally diversified mutual funds within your TFSA and see your earnings grow tax-free. This option allows you to potentially achieve higher returns compared to a regular TFSA savings account, but remember, investments carry inherent risk.

Remember: All contributions to your TFSA TFSAs have contribution limits set by the Canadian government. Check your contribution room to avoid exceeding the limit.

No matter your savings goals, Tangerine has a TFSA option to suit your needs. Choose from tax-free savings on your CAD or USD, or explore potentially higher growth with investment funds – all within a tax-sheltered account.

Tax-free guaranteed investment (GIC)

Tangerine GICs: Earn Competitive Interest & Choose Your Term

Tangerine GICs (Guaranteed Investment Certificates) offer a secure way to grow your money with a guaranteed interest rate. Here’s a breakdown of their rates:

  • Competitive Rates:  Tangerine boasts rates up to 4.85%, making them a compelling option for risk-averse investors seeking attractive returns.
  • Term Flexibility: Choose a GIC term that aligns with your savings goals, ranging from 90 days to 5 years.
  • No Additional Fees:  Enjoy the benefit of Tangerine’s no-fee policy on GICs. Maximize your returns without hidden charges.

Here’s a quick look at the interest rate highlights:

  • Highest rate: 4.85% (offered for a 1.5-year term)
  • Starting rate: 1.50% (for a 90-day term)
  • Rates do not increase beyond 4.85% for longer terms (e.g., 5-year term offers 4.10%)

Choosing the Right GIC Term:

  • Shorter terms (90 days – 1 year): Ideal if you need access to your funds sooner and prioritize guaranteed returns over a shorter period.
  • Longer terms (1.5 – 5 years): Lock in a higher interest rate (up to 4.85%) for a longer commitment. However, your funds will be less accessible during the term.

Remember: GICs lock your money for the chosen term. Consider your investment goals and liquidity needs when selecting a GIC term.

Tax-free investment fund account

Supercharge Your Tax-Free Savings with Tangerine TFSAs & Investment Funds

Maximize your tax savings and growth potential with Tangerine’s TFSAs (Tax-Free Savings Accounts) featuring Investment Funds:

  • Tax-Free Growth:  Contributions to your TFSA grow tax-free, and you won’t pay taxes on withdrawals. Combine this with Tangerine’s Investment Funds, and you can achieve significant tax-sheltered growth on your investments.
  • Invest for the Long Term:  A TFSA with Investment Funds is ideal for long-term savings goals like retirement. The power of compounding interest can significantly grow your savings over time within a tax-advantaged environment.
  • Control Your Risk:  Tangerine offers a variety of Investment Funds with varying risk profiles. Choose a fund that aligns with your risk tolerance and investment goals.
  • Professional Management with Low Fees:  Benefit from Tangerine’s investment expertise for a low management fee. Their fund managers handle investment selection and management, simplifying your investment journey.

Overall, a Tangerine TFSA with Investment Funds is a powerful tool for tax-efficient, long-term investing. You gain professional management and potentially higher returns compared to a regular TFSA savings account, all while maximizing tax benefits.

Tangerine GIC accounts

Tangerine GICs: Flexible Options for Every Saver

Tangerine GICs (Guaranteed Investment Certificates) offer a safe and secure way to grow your money with a guaranteed interest rate. They come in a variety of options to suit your savings goals and investment preferences:

  • Tangerine RSP GIC: Invest within your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RSP) and benefit from tax advantages while locking in a competitive interest rate.
  • Tangerine TFSA GIC:  Grow your savings tax-free within a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) and enjoy a guaranteed return on your investment.
  • Tangerine Non-Registered GIC: This is the standard GIC option, ideal for any savings goal outside of registered accounts.
  • Tangerine US Dollar GIC: Hold your US dollars (USD) and earn interest while benefiting from the security of a GIC.
  • Tangerine RIF GIC:  This GIC is designed for those who have transferred their RRSP to a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RIF).

Key Takeaways:

  • Variety for Different Needs:  Choose the GIC that aligns with your investment goals, registered account type (RSP or TFSA), or currency preference (USD).
  • Security and Guaranteed Returns:  All GICs offer guaranteed interest rates and lock in your investment for the chosen term, providing peace of mind.

Remember: Consider your investment horizon, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs when selecting a GIC term.

Guaranteed investment accounts

Lock in Your Savings and Earn Competitive Rates with Tangerine GICs

Looking for a secure way to grow your money with a guaranteed return? Look no further than Tangerine GICs (Guaranteed Investment Certificates).

  • Flexible Terms: Choose a GIC term that aligns with your savings goals, ranging from 90 days to 5 years.
  • Competitive Rates:  Earn attractive interest rates, up to a maximum of 4.85% depending on the term you choose.
  • Security and Peace of Mind: Your investment is guaranteed for the chosen term, offering protection and predictability for your savings.

Most GIC Options Share the Same Rate Schedule:

This simplifies your selection process. The standard GIC, RIF GIC, TFSA GIC, and RSP GIC all benefit from Tangerine’s competitive rates.

Exception: Tangerine US Dollar GIC

The US Dollar GIC offers lower rates compared to the standard GIC due to fluctuations in currency exchange.

Remember: GICs lock your money for the chosen term. Consider your investment goals, liquidity needs, and risk tolerance when selecting a GIC term.

Tangerine investment accounts

Invest for Growth with Tangerine Investment Funds

Expand your investment options with Tangerine Investment Funds:

  • Diversify Your Portfolio:  Choose from a variety of index-based Tangerine Investment Funds. These funds track specific market indexes, offering broad exposure to different asset classes and reducing risk through diversification.
  • Align with Your Goals: Tangerine Investment Funds cater to various investment goals and risk tolerances. Explore their options to find a fund that aligns with your financial objectives.
  • Flexible Account Options:  Hold your Tangerine Investment Funds within different Tangerine accounts to maximize your benefits:
    • Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA): Invest for long-term goals and enjoy tax-free growth on your contributions and earnings.
    • Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RSP): Save for retirement and benefit from tax deductions on your contributions. Your investment earnings grow tax-free until withdrawal.
    • Non-Registered Investment Account: Invest for any goal and enjoy flexibility, but remember your investment earnings will be taxed.

Benefits of Tangerine Investment Funds:

  • Professional Management:  Benefit from Tangerine’s investment expertise for a management fee. Their fund managers handle investment selection and ongoing management, simplifying your investment journey.
  • Potentially Higher Returns:  Investment funds offer the potential for higher returns compared to traditional savings accounts, but also carry inherent risk.

Remember: Carefully consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon before choosing an investment fund. Explore Tangerine’s investment options and speak with a financial advisor if needed to make informed investment decisions.

Tangerine loans

Included in the lending category, Tangerine offers mortgages, home equity lines of credit, and RSP loans.

Mortgages

Tangerine Mortgages: Fixed Rates, Flexible Options

Tangerine offers a streamlined mortgage experience with features to suit your needs:

  • Fixed-Term Mortgages:  Choose from terms ranging from 1 to 10 years for predictable monthly payments that fit your budget.
  • 5-Year Variable Rate Option:  Enjoy the flexibility of a variable rate mortgage alongside Tangerine’s stability – your initial rate is locked-in for 120 days from the time you get a quote.
  • Prepayment Freedom:  Make lump-sum payments of up to 25% of your principal annually or increase your regular payments by 25% without penalty. This allows you to accelerate your mortgage payoff and save on interest.
  • Simplified Process:  Get a mortgage quote online and lock in your rate for 120 days, streamlining your homebuying journey.

Overall, Tangerine Mortgages are a strong option for Canadians seeking fixed-rate security or the potential benefits of a variable rate, with the flexibility to prepay and manage your mortgage effectively.

HELOC

Unlock Your Home’s Equity with a Tangerine HELOC

Tangerine’s Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) allows you to access funds at a competitive interest rate by leveraging the equity you’ve built in your home (minimum 35%). Here’s how it can benefit you:

  • Low Interest Rates:  Enjoy a competitive interest rate on your loan, potentially lower than other borrowing options.
  • Access Funds as Needed:  A HELOC functions like a credit line, giving you the flexibility to borrow what you need, when you need it.
  • Manage Your Payments Easily:  Work with a Tangerine representative to establish a fixed payment plan that fits your budget and helps you manage your HELOC responsibly.

Important Considerations:

  • Security:  Your home serves as collateral for the HELOC, so ensure you can comfortably manage the repayments.
  • Interest Rates can Fluctuate:  HELOCs typically have variable interest rates, so your monthly payments may change over time.

Overall, a Tangerine HELOC can be a smart way to access funds for renovations, debt consolidation, or other financial goals. However, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved and ensure you can manage the repayments responsibly.

RSP loan

Boost Your Retirement Savings with a Tangerine RSP Loan

Maximize your tax savings and future retirement nest egg with a Tangerine RSP Loan:

  • Reach Your RSP Contribution Goals:  Don’t let a cash shortage hinder your retirement saving strategy. Borrow what you need to reach your annual RSP contribution limit and claim the tax benefits.
  • Save More, Pay Less:  Tangerine offers competitive interest rates on RSP loans, potentially saving you money compared to other lenders.
  • Flexible Repayment Options: Choose a repayment term between 1 and 5 years to fit your budget and financial timeline.
  • Prepay Anytime, Penalty-Free:  Become debt-free faster and maximize your long-term savings by prepaying your loan at any time without additional fees.

Remember:

  • Strategic Decision: Borrowing for RSP contributions requires careful consideration. Ensure your financial situation allows for comfortable repayments while achieving your retirement goals.

Explore Your Options: Consider a Tangerine RSP Loan if you need to catch up on contributions. However, explore other options and consult a financial advisor if needed to make an informed decision.

How to open a Tangerine account

Open Your Tangerine Account in Minutes: A Quick Guide

Ready to join Tangerine’s digital banking experience? Here’s how to open your account in just a few steps:

  1. Head to tangerine.ca and click “Sign Me Up” on the top right corner.
  2. Gather these documents beforehand:
    • Social Insurance Number (SIN)
    • Employment information
    • Valid ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
    • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)
  3. Tangerine will guide you through four quick online steps:
    • Enter your email address
    • Create a secure PIN
    • Provide personal details like address and employment
    • Confirm your identity electronically (if eligible) or visit Canada Post for verification
  4. Verifying your identity (if required):
    • Tangerine will locate your nearest Canada Post office and show you acceptable documents for verification (ID & proof of address).
    • Take your documents and the provided barcode (displayed on the verification page) to the Canada Post office.

Tip:  For a smoother online verification process, check if you’re eligible for electronic verification during the application steps.

That’s it! Once your identity is confirmed, your Tangerine account will be ready to use.

By calling Tangerine

Tangerine offers multiple ways to reach their customer service team:

Phone: Call 1-888-826-4374 and follow the prompts:

  • Enter your account number (if you have one) or press # to continue without an account.
  • Press 2 to open a new account.
  • Select the specific account type you’re interested in .

A customer service representative will be available to assist you with opening a new account and guide you through the process.

Tip: While calling, gather your personal and employment information beforehand to expedite the process.

Alternative Methods:

  • Consider exploring Tangerine’s website (tangerine.ca) for a wealth of information and self-service options. You might find answers to your questions or initiate the account opening process online.
  • Social media platforms like Twitter (@TangerineBank) might be another avenue to connect with Tangerine for basic inquiries.

Pros and cons of Tangerine

Strong Financial Products & User-Friendly Management:

  • Competitive Rates & Low Fees: Tangerine offers attractive interest rates on savings accounts, GICs, and investment funds, alongside minimal fees, making them a budget-friendly choice.
  • Digital Convenience: Manage your finances seamlessly through Tangerine’s user-friendly online and mobile banking platforms, ensuring easy access anytime, anywhere.
  • Diverse Account Options: Choose from a wide range of accounts suited to your needs, including savings accounts, GICs, TFSAs, RRSPs, chequing accounts, and investment funds. This variety allows you to tailor your banking experience to your financial goals.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider:

  • Limited Physical Presence: Unlike traditional banks with branches, Tangerine operates solely online. This might be inconvenient for those who prefer in-person banking services.
  • Loan Options: Tangerine currently doesn’t offer personal or vehicle loans. Consider this if you need such products.

Focus on Core Products: While Tangerine boasts a diverse selection compared to other online banks, it may have a less extensive range of financial products compared to major brick-and-mortar banks.

Security

Tangerine adheres to the same privacy standards as other major Canadian financial institutions and implements extra precautions such as secure online PIN reset, 128-bit encryption, and Secure Socket Layer (SSL) protection.

Tangerine also utilizes a technology called DoubleSafe, which prompts you to choose a custom picture and phrase that you’ll input when logging in, providing another layer of identification that potential fraudsters can’t get through. Finally, Tangerine’s credit cards all have SecureChip technology and have moved away from magnetic strips, which are more susceptible to theft.

Customer service

Consider These Alternatives for Reaching Tangerine’s Support:

While Tangerine offers phone support (1-888-826-4374), reaching them through other channels might be less straightforward. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Limited Contact Options: There’s currently no email support available.
  • Live Chat (Web): Live chat pops up on the website’s footer menu (Contact Us) but isn’t always readily visible. It has limited availability with potential wait times.

Alternatives to Consider:

  • Self-Service Options: Explore Tangerine’s comprehensive website (tangerine.ca) for a wealth of information and self-service options. You might find answers to your questions or manage your account directly online.
  • Social Media: Consider reaching out to Tangerine on social media platforms like Twitter (@TangerineBank) for basic inquiries. While responses might not be immediate, it can be another avenue for contact.

Remember: Gathering necessary information (account number, personal details) before calling customer service can expedite the process.

Who should bank with Tangerine?

Tangerine: A Perfect Fit For

  • Tech-Savvy Individuals: If you’re comfortable managing your finances online and appreciate a user-friendly digital banking experience, Tangerine shines. Their online and mobile platforms offer seamless account management anytime, anywhere.
  • Value Seekers: Tangerine caters to those who prioritize attractive interest rates, low fees, and a budget-friendly approach to banking. Their competitive rates on savings accounts, GICs, and investment funds can help you stretch your dollar further.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere:

  • Traditional Banking Preference: If you value the personalized service and convenience of visiting a physical branch, Tangerine’s online-only model might not be ideal.

Need for Specific Loans: While Tangerine offers a variety of financial products, they currently don’t have personal or vehicle loans. Consider this if such products are essential for you.

Who shouldn’t bank with Tangerine?

Consider Alternatives if You:

Prefer Traditional Banking: Value the personalized touch and convenience of in-person banking with tellers and physical branches? Traditional banks might be a better fit.

Need Specific Loans: Looking for personal loans, vehicle loans, or home equity lines of credit (HELOCs)? Tangerine’s current product offerings might not meet your needs. Explore banks with a wider range of loan products.

Require Long-Term Fixed Mortgages: Looking for a fixed-rate mortgage with a term longer than 10 years? Tangerine’s mortgage options currently max out at 10 years. Consider exploring other lenders for longer fixed-rate terms.

Alternatives to Tangerine

Tangerine: A Strong Online Banking Contender

Tangerine stands out as a leading online bank in Canada, offering:

  • Competitive Rates: Tangerine boasts competitive interest rates on savings accounts, GICs, and investment funds, often matching or surpassing traditional banks.
  • Diverse Account Options: Choose from a wide range of accounts similar to traditional banks, including savings accounts, GICs, TFSAs, RRSPs, chequing accounts, and investment funds. This flexibility allows you to tailor your banking experience to your financial goals.

Considering Alternatives? Here’s a Snapshot:

  • Simplii Financial: Similar in product range to Tangerine, making it a close competitor. Closely compare rates and terms to determine the best fit for you.
  • EQ Bank: Offers a more limited range of products compared to Tangerine, potentially allowing them to provide even higher interest rates on their High-Interest Savings Account (HISA). However, this may also mean fewer account options to suit your needs.

Choosing the Right Bank:

Carefully evaluate your banking needs and priorities (rates, account variety, features) to determine which online bank aligns best with your financial goals. Consider factors like:

  • Desired interest rates: Compare rates on savings accounts, GICs, and investment funds offered by different banks.
  • Account options: Identify the accounts you need (savings, chequing, TFSA, investment) and ensure the bank offers them.
  • Customer service: Consider how you prefer to contact your bank (phone, email, live chat) and choose a bank with convenient options.

Remember: Explore in-depth comparisons (like our Tangerine vs. EQ Bank comparison) to gain a deeper understanding of each bank’s strengths and weaknesses before making your decision.