US bank account and credit card for Canadians

[zoicca]

Does anyone know how I can get a US bank account and US credit card? I am a Canadian who does not officially reside in the US but I often do work US companies who will only pay me in USD if I have a US bank account.

I would love to just set up a bank account IN THE UNITED STATES and have a US based credit card. (Note: I know Royal Bank and most other Canadian banks have US dollar accounts, but this is not the same as having a US bank account.).

Many thanks.

[mrbeachman]

Take a day off and cross the border. Most smaller banks will open an account for you. I have one with Community Bank. Key bank is Canadian friendly too.

Everything else is hit and miss.

BTW, you mean VISA/MC debit card, right?

[Islington]

Try one of these:
Harris Bank (BMO) (http://www.harrisbank.com/bmo)
RBC Bank USA (http://rbcbank.com/specialtybanking/cid-96799.html)
HSBC Premier (http://www.hsbc.ca/1/2/en/personal/hsbcpremier)

[Magoomba]

Opening a bank account in the US requires a passport and a mailing address.
I used a friend's address and managed to open an account with Bank of America in Bellingham, WA.

Currently I am working on getting an American Express card. I'm doing it through their Special Handling department.
This is all done over the phone. Presumably, if you have an AMEX card in Canada, they can transfer your credit history over.
My application is still "in processing" stage according to their rep.

I'll create a new thread on this topic if everything goes successfully.

PS: Somehow Capital One already has my info (either culled from Bank of America and/or AMEX) and they have already sent me TWO credit card applications to my US address. Hilarious.

[mrbeachman]

Opening a bank account in the US requires a passport and a mailing address.
I used a friend's address and managed to open an account with Bank of America in Bellingham, WA.


I just opened a PO box in the States and it worked wonderfully.

[komodor]

If you go with Harris Bank, you can use the BMO ATMs to withdraw cash fee-free, whenever the exchange rate seems acceptable to you. They also have a true US based mastercard, but you have to call them to apply (no online).

[nauru]

Just do RBC Bank USA. You don't even have to go to the US. It's a true US-based bank account, and they'll give you a true US-based credit card, line of credit and other stuff. No fees at all for any of this.

Can be opened at a local RBC branch in Canada (even though the account will technically be based in Florida).

Also if you keep a balance of 700 bucks, they will give you free ATM withdrawals at any ATM in America, and refund the fee charged by the owner of the ATM. So you when you are in the US you can use Citi ATMs, Bank of America ATMs, JP Morgan ATMs, etc all for free; you never have to think about finding an RBC ATM (max 4 times a month I think though, so don't overdo it).

I've yet to see another US bank that offers all this with no fees whatsoever, and no requirement to show up in the United States to open the US bank account. That includes the "US divisions" of all the other Canadian banks.

[CorSter]

Harris Bank lets Canadians open up accounts on their website without stepping foot in the states.

[guessaaa]

Just do RBC Bank USA. You don't even have to go to the US. It's a true US-based bank account, and they'll give you a true US-based credit card, line of credit and other stuff. No fees at all for any of this.

Can be opened at a local RBC branch in Canada (even though the account will technically be based in Florida).

Also if you keep a balance of 700 bucks, they will give you free ATM withdrawals at any ATM in America, and refund the fee charged by the owner of the ATM. So you when you are in the US you can use Citi ATMs, Bank of America ATMs, JP Morgan ATMs, etc all for free; you never have to think about finding an RBC ATM (max 4 times a month I think though, so don't overdo it).

I've yet to see another US bank that offers all this with no fees whatsoever, and no requirement to show up in the United States to open the US bank account. That includes the "US divisions" of all the other Canadian banks.

The best part is online banking "one sign in" that lets you transfer to/from and access the account along with your Canadian-based ones.

[jpm88]

Opening a bank account in the US requires a passport and a mailing address.
I used a friend's address and managed to open an account with Bank of America in Bellingham, WA.

Currently I am working on getting an American Express card. I'm doing it through their Special Handling department.
This is all done over the phone. Presumably, if you have an AMEX card in Canada, they can transfer your credit history over.
My application is still "in processing" stage according to their rep.

I'll create a new thread on this topic if everything goes successfully.

PS: Somehow Capital One already has my info (either culled from Bank of America and/or AMEX) and they have already sent me TWO credit card applications to my US address. Hilarious.

+1. I've done that successfully also and Amex is the only one that will export your Cdn credit history and give you a card. I would be interested to see if you can get those other applications to go thru though, I had "pre approved" applications that didn't, and this was at the height of the easy money so I am not sure it would be easier now. The other thing you might want to try to build up a US credit history is to apply for dept store credit cards like at Macy's or Saks. They should be ok with Cdn applications especially at the outlet malls near the border. Try to get at least 3 items on your US credit records and you'll be on your way to bulding a credit history there.

[qazyutk0]

+1. I've done that successfully also and Amex is the only one that will export your Cdn credit history and give you a card. I would be interested to see if you can get those other applications to go thru though, I had "pre approved" applications that didn't, and this was at the height of the easy money so I am not sure it would be easier now. The other thing you might want to try to build up a US credit history is to apply for dept store credit cards like at Macy's or Saks. They should be ok with Cdn applications especially at the outlet malls near the border. Try to get at least 3 items on your US credit records and you'll be on your way to bulding a credit history there.

In order to have , or "build" , US credit file , you MUST have SSN
Without SSN , you don't have US credit file , period .

[nauru]

+1. I've done that successfully also and Amex is the only one that will export your Cdn credit history and give you a card. I would be interested to see if you can get those other applications to go thru though, I had "pre approved" applications that didn't, and this was at the height of the easy money so I am not sure it would be easier now. The other thing you might want to try to build up a US credit history is to apply for dept store credit cards like at Macy's or Saks. They should be ok with Cdn applications especially at the outlet malls near the border. Try to get at least 3 items on your US credit records and you'll be on your way to bulding a credit history there.

Are you sure that just having US credit products such as credit cards will start you building a credit history in the US, even without a social security number and without an ITIN? If so, please post credible source. I have been wondering this myself and have received conflicting reports. Thanks.

[jpm88]

Good point on the SSN, I forgot about that little detail cuz I got one from working there and so was just trying to share the parts after that to eventually get enough credit to get loans there. Let me see if I can find a definite answer but it sounds like it would be tricky. However I guess it wouldn't hurt to get the products, then if you get a SSN# in the future then maybe you can just join the card histories to the SSN.

[zoicca]

Thanks for all the replies. You all rock! I will try RBC's US based account since I already bank with them. Failing that, I will give harris a try.

[Dealdood]

The best part is online banking "one sign in" that lets you transfer to/from and access the account along with your Canadian-based ones.

Does anyone know if you can do email money xfer from another bank account into the RBC Bank US account or you have to have RBC Royal Bank to perform a fund transfer? I dont really want to open up an RBC Royal bank acct too ...

[ilove]

Bank of America also opens accounts for Canadians, and they didn't require a US address. My Canadian address worked fine for them. They also give you up to $50 signing bonus if you have been referred by an existing BoA customer. If you need a referrer PM me.

In response to the above post, I believe if you open an RBC USA account, you must also open a RBC Royal Bank Canadian account.

[zoicca]

I went into my local RBC branch and applied for a US account. RBC doesn't approve it. It goes to the US for approval and takes about a week. The account costs $3/month. It is a true US based account and not just a US dollar account in Canada, however I can transfer funds to my US dollar account here in Canada if I want to withdraw $ in Canada.

Thanks everyone once again for the info.

[nauru]

I went into my local RBC branch and applied for a US account. RBC doesn't approve it. It goes to the US for approval and takes about a week. The account costs $3/month. It is a true US based account and not just a US dollar account in Canada, however I can transfer funds to my US dollar account here in Canada if I want to withdraw $ in Canada.

Thanks everyone once again for the info.

FYI there are two US based accounts you are able to choose from. One is $0 per month, and one is $3 month (waived if balance is higher than $700). RBC staff will try to deny the existence of the $0 per month account, but it is indeed available.

[CorSter]

FYI there are two US based accounts you are able to choose from. One is $0 per month, and one is $3 month (waived if balance is higher than $700). RBC staff will try to deny the existence of the $0 per month account, but it is indeed available.

I think you need to go through RBC Bank USA to get the $0 account opened.

RBC Royal Bank will only open the $3/month account. The backdoor to this is to call RBC Bank USA and get them to change your $3/mo account to the full account once you have it all set up.

[CatDog]

RBC Royal Bank will only open the $3/month account. The backdoor to this is to call RBC Bank USA and get them to change your $3/mo account to the full account once you have it all set up.

Corster, could you explain, from my understanding there's 2 US accounts we're able to choose from, one's $4, and the others $30.

Which number do I call, and what account am I supposed to be changing it to?

Appreciate the help, god I hate bank fees.

[guessaaa]

Corster, could you explain, from my understanding there's 2 US accounts we're able to choose from, one's $4, and the others $30.

Which number do I call, and what account am I supposed to be changing it to?

Appreciate the help, god I hate bank fees.

You have to sign up for one of the two US accounts at an RBC branch in Canada. Once they are set up and running, you can call 1-800-236-8872 and ask them to switch you to free checking. The $4 account has a 3 month fee waiver if you don't have $700 deposited right away.

[hyunff79]

I've been wanting to apply for a US-based credit card for the sole purpose of cross-border online shopping, but most online retailers require a US-based billing address. I can sometimes get around this problem with the use of paypal, but more often than not, Canadian paypal accounts are not accepted either.

After reading this thread, it seems straightforward enough to open up a US bank account, but could someone shed some light on how a credit card would work? Since many retailers won't accept a Canadian billing address, even though I'm able to ship the item to the US (through near-border pickup service), has anyone been able to work around this problem?

[tharkhold]

I've been wanting to apply for a US-based credit card for the sole purpose of cross-border online shopping, but most online retailers require a US-based billing address. I can sometimes get around this problem with the use of paypal, but more often than not, Canadian paypal accounts are not accepted either.

After reading this thread, it seems straightforward enough to open up a US bank account, but could someone shed some light on how a credit card would work? Since many retailers won't accept a Canadian billing address, even though I'm able to ship the item to the US (through near-border pickup service), has anyone been able to work around this problem?

Call up the card issuer and ask them to add a secondary address to the account. I have never been denied this. The last one i did was with my rbc usa accounts, and ALL of my transactions work when i enter the us address for verification. (online orders, gas pumps in the us, etc)

[CatDog]

You have to sign up for one of the two US accounts at an RBC branch in Canada. Once they are set up and running, you can call 1-800-236-8872 and ask them to switch you to free checking. The $4 account has a 3 month fee waiver if you don't have $700 deposited right away.

Neat, thanks for the workaround. I'll wait until I get the activation code before I phone them, appreciate it.

Does anyone know how it works after you hook up the account? Does it hook up to a specific bank account on the CA side exclusively, or during the transaction process can you pick which account it goes to?

[guessaaa]

Neat, thanks for the workaround. I'll wait until I get the activation code before I phone them, appreciate it.

Does anyone know how it works after you hook up the account? Does it hook up to a specific bank account on the CA side exclusively, or during the transaction process can you pick which account it goes to?

You can pick which account you want to transfer in to or out of. You just need to combine the US and Canadian web access with "one sign in". If you sign in to the Canadian online banking, click the banking tab, then profile and preferences, then link other accounts, then link RBC Bank (USA) accounts, the wizard will take you through step by step.

[Questionz]

Thanks for all the replies. You all rock! I will try RBC's US based account since I already bank with them. Failing that, I will give harris a try.

Let us know how your RBC account goes, I'd really like to know.

Thanks to people here saying that you can transfer easily online between canadian and us RBC. does this mean i can take advantage of the conversion rates, and convert whenever its to my advantage?

[guessaaa]

Let us know how your RBC account goes, I'd really like to know.

Thanks to people here saying that you can transfer easily online between canadian and us RBC. does this mean i can take advantage of the conversion rates, and convert whenever its to my advantage?

The exchange rates update every hour, but you can take advantage of rates without a USA account by using a Canadian USD account.

[Questionz]

The exchange rates update every hour, but you can take advantage of rates without a USA account by using a Canadian USD account.

but don't they charge monthly fees? i notice a LOT of canadian banks always charge fees for a number of transactions (like more than 3 or 5 / month), or needs a minimum amount.

Which banks would you recomend for me to open a US acct?

[CatDog]

^ You don't really have a choice, RBC is the best option if you want to have easy access to your funds, otherwise you're going to have to have a cheque mailed out, or pay a wire transfer fee.

I opened an account a couple weeks ago at RBC, just waiting to link it up to my Canadian acct before I call them to get them to switch it to the free version.

[nauru]

but don't they charge monthly fees? i notice a LOT of canadian banks always charge fees for a number of transactions (like more than 3 or 5 / month), or needs a minimum amount.

Which banks would you recomend for me to open a US acct?

There are no monthly fees on the US side of RBC if you are in the right account. Unlimited withdrawals and deposits.

The Canadian side, as per usual, is not as good. How many withdrawals you can do from the Canadian account is limited by the package your are on and how much your branch manager likes you.

[CatDog]

You can pick which account you want to transfer in to or out of. You just need to combine the US and Canadian web access with "one sign in". If you sign in to the Canadian online banking, click the banking tab, then profile and preferences, then link other accounts, then link RBC Bank (USA) accounts, the wizard will take you through step by step.

I spoke with them over the phone and they said if i switch it to a free checkings account, I won't be able to transfer money back and forth. From your experience, after I activate/link the accounts, I can convert the account to a free checkings and it'll still be connected to the CA side?

When I asked the CS rep made it sound like they'd be closing the Access account and be opening a new one, that cannot be linked with RBC Canada.

Thanks for confirming, just don't want them to close the account, only for me to have to go through the process again.

[nauru]

I spoke with them over the phone and they said if i switch it to a free checkings account, I won't be able to transfer money back and forth. From your experience, after I activate/link the accounts, I can convert the account to a free checkings and it'll still be connected to the CA side?

When I asked the CS rep made it sound like they'd be closing the Access account and be opening a new one, that cannot be linked with RBC Canada.

Thanks for confirming, just don't want them to close the account, only for me to have to go through the process again.

I did the conversion to the free account and the link between Canadian and US side still works exactly the same. In other words first I had the 700 minimum account, then linked to Canadian side, then converted to US free account.

[CatDog]

^ Awesome, thank you.

[nauru]

You are welcome.

Sometimes it seems like these RBC Canada people will say just about anything to get you to pay the bank more money. A lot of the employees seem to be spreading incorrect information about what is possible and what is not, what is free and what costs money.

[guessaaa]

You are welcome.

Sometimes it seems like these RBC Canada people will say just about anything to get you to pay the bank more money. A lot of the employees seem to be spreading incorrect information about what is possible and what is not, what is free and what costs money.

They're not spreading incorrect information, they only have access to the two accounts officially offered to Canadians in Canada. It's what the Toronto execs decided, rather than employees spreading incorrect information. The free checking account is not available nor supported in Canada, hence why it's not advertised in Canada, why you can't apply for it in Canada, and why you need the Americans to switch it for you once you're set up.

[CorSter]

The US Free Checking Account is not officially supported by RBC Canada... theoretically they could break the "one sign in" one day and you'd have no resource other than upgrading your account. Still, i don't see why you shouldn't do it.

[mrbeachman]

I need to revive this thread a bit.

I had a US account for 7 years. Last month there was a merger and a lot of my electronic deposits went missing because the local branch sent wrong routing numbers to Well Fargo or so I have been told. Basically my money is ending up in somebody's else account and this has been going on for 2 weeks. The branch is clueless. Anyway, I need to open a US account ASAP and was wondering about the following.

Do I need to open a Canadian RBC account to have a US chequing. Don't feel like paying monthly fees as I am with TD select service. I can keep a minimum 700 balance in US account, that in not a problem.

If I go with Harris, will I have the access to online banking. I know online banking is sometimes difficult to get because of tax issues/patriot act or whatever. I have the online access with a current bank, but they %$$$$ up majorly.

Thanks for any FAST replies :)

[cheapcanoehead]

You won't be able to do online bill pay with Harris unless you have a US address and can prove residency. I have a US PO Box and I gave them that address, but it still wasn't good enough, I had to send in a gas or hydro bill with a US address on it which I didn't have so online bill pay was not an option for me. With RBC online bill pay is available.

[mrbeachman]

Actually, I just did an application with Harris online with only 100 deposit required, which is great. However, at the end of the application, there was a message that I will receive a confirmation via email..... but, I don't remember inputing my email address anywhere on the forms.

[happynetant]

I applied for RBC US credit card over the phone two weeks ago. Last week I was told my application was approved. They accepted Canadian credit history. Thanks for all writing commands on this thread. Great!

[webdoctors]

I want to transfer some money to my brother who has a US $ bank account in Canada. I have an ING Direct bank account in the USA. Can I just do a person to person transfer where he puts in his routing and account number and the money gets transferred? I'm worried he's gonna get hit with a $25 wire fee, in case it shows up as a foreign rather than domestic US account...

Is it better to send a cheque?

Second question: If I send a cheque can it be cashed in a CIBC US $ account without any penalties?

[Magoomba]

Opening a bank account in the US requires a passport and a mailing address.
I used a friend's address and managed to open an account with Bank of America in Bellingham, WA.

Currently I am working on getting an American Express card. I'm doing it through their Special Handling department.
This is all done over the phone. Presumably, if you have an AMEX card in Canada, they can transfer your credit history over.
My application is still "in processing" stage according to their rep.

I'll create a new thread on this topic if everything goes successfully.

PS: Somehow Capital One already has my info (either culled from Bank of America and/or AMEX) and they have already sent me TWO credit card applications to my US address. Hilarious.

UPDATE: Success!

Yes, my card has been approved. The application was stuck in limbo for a while because
they wanted me to fax a copy of my BoA statement to them.
Well I faxed it a total of 3 times. They couldn't find any record of it the first two times.
Finally today they said they received it and will be mailing out my card.

The crappy thing is I missed out on the SPG 30,000 points promo.
They couldn't use my original application as it was more than 90 days old.
So I had to do up a new one. The promo is now only 11,000 points.

A bittersweet day indeed!

PS: I won't bother starting a new thread cuz I'm too lazy =)

[el_cid]

You have to sign up for one of the two US accounts at an RBC branch in Canada. Once they are set up and running, you can call 1-800-236-8872 and ask them to switch you to free checking. The $4 account has a 3 month fee waiver if you don't have $700 deposited right away.

I called in a few times and they gave me the same explanation as they did to CatDog above. So no dice. Nauru how many times did you call in before they agreed to do it? Was there any specific trigger that you said that made them agree?

[y18313]

I just went through signing up for RBC Bank access account through a CDN Royal Bank branch and can share some insights:

1. I had to open a CDN and a US Dollar account in Canada in order to transfer funds from RBC Bank to Royal Bank.

2. In order to waive the CDN account monthly charges, I had to get two more products (multi product discount). I signed up for no fee credit card and a TFSA. So now I have 4 products from the CDN RBC and 1 account with US RBC.

3. I was asked if I wanted to 'checks' since there are free...I said yeah why not.

4. I was charged US$7.30 for these checks...when I inquired about the charges, I was told that the checks are free but the charge is for shipping to Canada. I will cancel all these accounts if they don't reimburse me this amount. I hate bank fees and was the main reason for leaving royal bank many years ago. I have been extremely satisfied with TDCT Select Service for 16 years. Too bad they don't have a similar service with TD Banknorth

5. I've also read somewhere that if you use a single sign on for US and CDN accounts, there is a charge to transfer funds in between. Have to verify this.

I do like the fact that they can use your CDN credit history to serve you in US. I plan to buy a house in US within 6 months and am planning to move there within a year.

[guessaaa]

You should have received a call from your account manager in the US asking if everything's ok, etc. My manager told me the same thing regarding the checks, that they are free but the shipping isn't. I told him that he must be kidding me because I, like you, was told it was completely free. He told me that I shouldn't have been told this and that he'll reimburse me the fee when it shows up as a one time thing. But it never did show up and he was confused why I wasn't charged. In any event, talk to your account manager to have it waived/reimbursed. Also, there's no fee to transfer between RBC Canada and RBC US online. That's kind of the point of having this arrangement.

[y18313]

You should have received a call from your account manager in the US asking if everything's ok, etc. My manager told me the same thing regarding the checks, that they are free but the shipping isn't. I told him that he must be kidding me because I, like you, was told it was completely free. He told me that I shouldn't have been told this and that he'll reimburse me the fee when it shows up as a one time thing. But it never did show up and he was confused why I wasn't charged. In any event, talk to your account manager to have it waived/reimbursed. Also, there's no fee to transfer between RBC Canada and RBC US online. That's kind of the point of having this arrangement.

Thanks. The manager did call but it was before the checks arrived and the charges showed up. I'm dealing with the service reps right now but will prob have to call the mgr to have this resolved.

[y18313]

Thanks. The manager did call but it was before the checks arrived and the charges showed up. I'm dealing with the service reps right now but will prob have to call the mgr to have this resolved.

Good news - the charges were reversed by the service rep. I used the messaging function online to correspond with them.

[vikont]

Harris Bank lets Canadians open up accounts on their website without stepping foot in the states.

Hmm, I wonder why Harris of all banks would offer such service to Canadians? Oh, I know - it's because it's owned by BMO! :)

[matkokubko]

Anybody managed to get online bill pay with Harris working?


You won't be able to do online bill pay with Harris unless you have a US address and can prove residency. I have a US PO Box and I gave them that address, but it still wasn't good enough, I had to send in a gas or hydro bill with a US address on it which I didn't have so online bill pay was not an option for me. With RBC online bill pay is available.

[bluenosed]

I tried the suggestion here to sign up for the RBC USA Access account and then ask to switch over to the free checking account.

They said I wasn't eligible as a Canadian! What gives!

Do I need to say a magic word

[guessaaa]

I tried the suggestion here to sign up for the RBC USA Access account and then ask to switch over to the free checking account.

They said I wasn't eligible as a Canadian! What gives!

Do I need to say a magic word

You need to first get the free checking account in addition to the Access account, then once it's set up and you've linked the US online account to your Canadian online account, cancel the Access account. If the Access account is less than 6 months old there's a $25 closing fee.

[drake21]

How is everyone funding their Harris US bank account after the initial 100$(which accepted credit card)? They told me you can't use BMO atm's.

[matkokubko]

I used xe trade (xe.com) to deposit to the account - bank ACH transfer. They debit my CAD chequing account and credit the harris bank account

[skywise]

Sorry about reviving a long dead thread but I'm hunting a true US credit card for cross border online shopping.
I've managed to get myself a US bank account (little border bank in Neche, ND)
US paypal account.
US address (PO box and Parcel drop service)
US phone # (google voice)
But, some US online folk still want a true US credit card, (xoom money transfer for one) and I can only link a proper US card to my US paypal account (things go alot slower with only a bank account linked)

Soooo, what's the easiest way to get a US Visa/MC? (I've already got a target card, didn't realize they stopped doing visa some time ago)

[philosofaux]

Almost all US debit cards based at a US address work on the VISA or MC networks. If you have a US bank account, at a US address, you shouldn't need a US credit card.

[Lena100]

Hi guys,

I hope this post is revived. I am interested in opening a US Banking Account for Canadians, but do not want to pay monthly fee. Which RBC Canadian Account do you advise me to open in order to use to transfer money to the US Account.

Thanks

Magdalen

[armyguy25]

Hey, I perused this thread, but nobody mentioned what I was looking for. I think a few people danced around it, and just didn't want to come out and say it, so I will.

I'm pretty sure that credit histories are unique to each country, right? I saw a few posts here saying that a few banks that operate in both countries WILL transfer your history if you want them to. But what if you don't, because you have bad credit here in Canada.

Could somebody get a US address/phone # and start getting credit cards to build up a credit history? I plan on moving to the US when my current contract is up (about 2 years) and it would be a big help to have a good credit score at that time.

Is the SSN # needed to apply for credit? I know that the SIN # is not needed here to do so. They are both the same thing essentilly, and are not (despite what they would have us believe) meant to be used as identifcation by credit issuers.

So if I got a US account, and one or two low limit CC's, bought some small stuff and paid the balance right away, I'd have pretty good credit in the US, no?

TIA

[kin0kin]

I just opened a Harris Bank USD checking account. Following is my method of funding Harris Bank without getting docked any fees:

Questrade
If you have a Questrade account you can send $$ from QT to Harris via EFT. If you need to withdraw $$ from Harris, just setup a PAD with QT and you can withdraw the $$ from Harris through QT. Then you can move the funds back to your Canadian bank account (USD). If you need to convert funds, QT gives the best rate besides XE AFAIK. You can move your USD/CAD into QT and do the conversion then move the funds back to your Canadian accounts in their respective currency. :D

This is AFAIK the cheapest method for getting a US debit MC. I'd considered TD select service but it's really "expensive" to park $5000 in the account just to get the services for free.

[slowtyper]

Hi guys,

I hope this post is revived. I am interested in opening a US Banking Account for Canadians, but do not want to pay monthly fee. Which RBC Canadian Account do you advise me to open in order to use to transfer money to the US Account.

Thanks

Magdalen

Hi Magdalen,

The easiest Canadian account to open for free would be a basic savings account. It is free, however you can only withdraw money (money sent to the US account counts as a withdrawl) once per month. So if you don' need to send money to the US account more than once a month, it works. This is what I use. The US account is free if you keep a min 750 or 700USD balance.

You can get a free chequing account if you have more products with RBC including a credit card and some registered product like TFSA or RRSP. too much hassle for me.

[Tummy]

Sorry about reviving a long dead thread but I'm hunting a true US credit card for cross border online shopping.
I've managed to get myself a US bank account (little border bank in Neche, ND)
US paypal account.
US address (PO box and Parcel drop service)
US phone # (google voice)
But, some US online folk still want a true US credit card, (xoom money transfer for one) and I can only link a proper US card to my US paypal account (things go alot slower with only a bank account linked)

Soooo, what's the easiest way to get a US Visa/MC? (I've already got a target card, didn't realize they stopped doing visa some time ago)

Are you able to ask the bank you have your account with to get a US based credit card?

I'm still in the middle of sorting everything out for myself, as well, but I thought I would share my experiences with others in case it helps them. So far I've been able to :
1) get a US chequing and savings account (Banner Bank in Washington)
2) get a true US credit card with them
3) hooked my canadian paypal to US chequing and hooked my US paypal to US savings and US credit card

There are a few pointers I've noted that I've listed below.
- I'm told the credit card companies have 2 types of available addresses for your credit card. "Statement address" (where your statements are physically mailed to - for me, I turned off paper statements and am trying to keep this as my Canadian address), and "Mailing address" where they send physical mail to. This address is also used for your "Billing address" when making online purchases). If your mailing address doesn't match your billing address when shopping, the automated processes will fail. The CC CS told me manual verifications should still work as they would see both addresses listed. (I also turned off payper statements)
- If you use your US CC, even if the charge is in USD, if the charge is initiated from OUTSIDE of the states, you will incur a foreign transaction fee. It can range from 0.8-3% from what i've read. My bank's is 0.8%. To avoid this, link your US CC to your US paypal address. (if you link it to a canadian paypal address you will be charged)

What I'm not sure about just yet:
- If I can use my US paypal to pay, but have the item mailed to me here in Canada (sometimes merchants only let you fund with credit cards)
- Where "real" mail will go - to statement or mailing, (e.g. replacement credit card).


I think buying something in the states and mailing to my US shipping address should work ok, since that's all US based (but I'm not 100% sure yet).

I hope this helps.

[nohup]

Is the RBC US credit card the "RBC Royal Bank US Dollar Visa Gold " or is it something different? It has a $65 annual fee, so I'm guessing everyone is getting a different card.

The above card can be opened online. I want a card I can use to order netflix.com, Amazon Video on Demand etc...

[cheapcanoehead]

The one with the 65$ annual fee is the one from the RBC Canada website. You want one directly from RBC Bank USA as it has no annual fee. Once I had my Access US account open for 1 year or so they invited me to apply for a credit card. I did just with my SIN# and Canadian address and got one. I think I read in a previous post that Canadians can get one even if they don't have the RBC Bank USA chequing account. You have to apply by phone. 1-800-236-8872 or 1-877-722-2265

[rebel2232]

The one with the 65$ annual fee is the one from the RBC Canada website. You want one directly from RBC Bank USA as it has no annual fee. Once I had my Access US account open for 1 year or so they invited me to apply for a credit card. I did just with my SIN# and Canadian address and got one. I think I read in a previous post that Canadians can get one even if they don't have the RBC Bank USA chequing account. You have to apply by phone. 1-800-236-8872 or 1-877-722-2265

Info posted here, also can mail in application

rbcbank.com/misc/cid-101587.html

[Lena100]

Thanks for the information on this website. I was able open Royal Bank US Account. They offered me a credit card as well plus a line of credit. I guess I do not have to beg the Canadian banks and I do not have to carry US when going into the US.

The only catch was in order to waive the monthly fee, I had to open one other account with them TSFA. Everything worked out well for me.

Cheers!

[nauru]

The credit card I have from RBC Bank USA is called Platinum Rewards. It's a no fee rewards card.

Information is here (http://www.rbcbankusa.com/creditcards/cid-95704.html), you can apply by phone or by mail I believe.

There is also an option to pay a yearly fee if you want to earn points at a slightly higher rate. I wouldn't do this though.

[msqrade]

What are the tax implications for using a Us based bank account and credit card? Do you have to start filing with the IRS?

[nauru]

What are the tax implications for using a Us based bank account and credit card? Do you have to start filing with the IRS?

1. If you just have some basic bank accounts and credit cards in the US there are no tax implications.
2. You don't need to file anything with the IRS.

[nauru]

Also, anyone who is going to get an account with RBC Bank USA:

PM me for referral code and RBC Bank USA will give you $25 when you open the account.

[msqrade]

Thanks. I was sent an W8EN(?) form so was just wondering.

[rebel2232]

Thanks. I was sent an W8EN(?) form so was just wondering.


A W-8ECI is for US income tax purposes...from my understanding you have to complete this form and provide it to the individual that is providing you with the US income (e.g. your management company if you rent property in the US) so that they don't take the automatic 30% withholding tax. You also need to have a ITIN or SSN to use this form.

[nauru]

I think he was referring to W8BEN, which is just to confirm that there will be 30% withholding tax. No ITIN, SSN or other effort required.

[msqrade]

Yes, I just checked at home and it's the W-8BEN. So this I guess just means any interest I make gets taxed 30%? Not that I will have much money in the US.

[cactusQC]

If you have a Questrade account you can send $$ from QT to Harris via EFT. If you need to withdraw $$ from Harris, just setup a PAD with QT and you can withdraw the $$ from Harris through QT.

How can you do this, Questrade doesn't seem to allow EFT nor PAD to US Banks.. ?

[Sw0op]

I have a free checking account at RBC Bank (RBC USA) and noticed they charged me a "check image fee". Anyone know what this fee is for??

Also, i find it strange how i cant see the transaction online and only noticed it when i checked the hard copy mail statements i just received....

[Milfman]

I have a free checking account at RBC Bank (RBC USA) and noticed they charged me a "check image fee". Anyone know what this fee is for??

Also, i find it strange how i cant see the transaction online and only noticed it when i checked the hard copy mail statements i just received....

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=%22check+image+fee%22

[Gwyrthwr]

This is partial correct info.

The credit card from RBC is just USA Gold Visa which has a $65 anual fee and it's a Canadian credit card.

I just went today to RBC to open an RBC Access US account. Spent 1 hour with the lady at RBC with 20 gazillion questions on why do I really need this kind of account. I told them that I want to get some place where all my clients from US to send money. Plus, I was looking for an US credit card linked to this account, for my travels. Bad choice. RBC offers an US Visa Gold card which has an annual fee of $65 and does not build you any credit history in US. Actually it's one of the most expensive Canadian US Dollars based credit cards (TD and BMO have better offers). As per RBC, to get an US credit card, you have to be physically present in US with a document that states your address. Also, per RBC specialist, your debit card is also eligible for a $5 charge fee at any ATM that is not RBC USA (Centura).

Regards,
G


Just do RBC Bank USA. You don't even have to go to the US. It's a true US-based bank account, and they'll give you a true US-based credit card, line of credit and other stuff. No fees at all for any of this.

Can be opened at a local RBC branch in Canada (even though the account will technically be based in Florida).

Also if you keep a balance of 700 bucks, they will give you free ATM withdrawals at any ATM in America, and refund the fee charged by the owner of the ATM. So you when you are in the US you can use Citi ATMs, Bank of America ATMs, JP Morgan ATMs, etc all for free; you never have to think about finding an RBC ATM (max 4 times a month I think though, so don't overdo it).

I've yet to see another US bank that offers all this with no fees whatsoever, and no requirement to show up in the United States to open the US bank account. That includes the "US divisions" of all the other Canadian banks.

[philosofaux]

This is partial correct info.

The credit card from RBC is just USA Gold Visa which has a $65 anual fee and it's a Canadian credit card.

I just went today to RBC to open an RBC Access US account. Spent 1 hour with the lady at RBC with 20 gazillion questions on why do I really need this kind of account. I told them that I want to get some place where all my clients from US to send money. Plus, I was looking for an US credit card linked to this account, for my travels. Bad choice. RBC offers an US Visa Gold card which has an annual fee of $65 and does not build you any credit history in US. Actually it's one of the most expensive Canadian US Dollars based credit cards (TD and BMO have better offers). As per RBC, to get an US credit card, you have to be physically present in US with a document that states your address. Also, per RBC specialist, your debit card is also eligible for a $5 charge fee at any ATM that is not RBC USA (Centura).

Regards,
G

After you open an Access USA account, you can apply directly through RBC Bank USA for a USD credit card with no annual fee to be linked to your account; they accept Canadian address and Canadian credit histories.

Other than to build a credit history, you don't really need a credit card, because the debit card they give you as the option to operate over the VISA network. Also, what the RBC adviser told you is simply wrong: there is no fee to use a non-RBC or non-Presto ATM other than what the machine operator charges you, and two of those are refunded to you every month.

Anyway, the reason she recommended the US Dollar Gold card is either that she didn't know or (if you're a pessimist) she wanted the commission from a new card signup.

[brucester4]

I find this topic interesting and have been doing some research on the various options available. Most of the banks have slightly different services and costs. I have just started a web site related to us bank accounts , might slowly expand into other topics as such as exchange rates and credit cards.

Does anyone know if you can convert a TD borderfree account to a regular US account? That way you could switch the accounts back and forth based on the amount of service you need. You could get the free cheques and other services when you needed them, but change the account back for periods when you don't need them? I know my needs are very seasonal.

I am interested in anyone thoughts on this. I did change a select service account to a regular account with no account number change before, would this work the same way?

Thanks,

Bruce

http://canadausbanking.webs.com/

[philosofaux]

I find this topic interesting and have been doing some research on the various options available. Most of the banks have slightly different services and costs.

I hope to God you mean slightly different as an understatement.



Does anyone know if you can convert a TD borderfree account to a regular US account? That way you could switch the accounts back and forth based on the amount of service you need. You could get the free cheques and other services when you needed them, but change the account back for periods when you don't need them? I know my needs are very seasonal.

I am interested in anyone thoughts on this. I did change a select service account to a regular account with no account number change before, would this work the same way?

1. Not your question, but to start, please please please remember that the TD Borderfree cheques are Canadian cheques, not ABA-coded checks, and that if you pay someone in the US with you, they're going to hate you because it'll take three weeks to clear and they'll probably be charged a fee for cashing a foreign check.

2. You can convert a TD Borderfree account to a regular US account. I've done it before. It is free unless you opened or converted the account within the last 30 or 90 days, in which case they charge you the early cancellation or early closing fee or whatever they call it.

Best of luck to you.

[brucester4]

I hope to God you mean slightly different as an understatement.



1. Not your question, but to start, please please please remember that the TD Borderfree cheques are Canadian cheques, not ABA-coded checks, and that if you pay someone in the US with you, they're going to hate you because it'll take three weeks to clear and they'll probably be charged a fee for cashing a foreign check.

2. You can convert a TD Borderfree account to a regular US account. I've done it before. It is free unless you opened or converted the account within the last 30 or 90 days, in which case they charge you the early cancellation or early closing fee or whatever they call it.

Best of luck to you.

That was an understatement for sure, if you want to withdraw usd from ATM in Canada CIBC or RBC appear to be better. TD has more services included, Scotiabank has the lowest fees, but none of them are very good for accessing money in the US.

Thanks for the information,

Bruce

[philosofaux]

That was an understatement for sure, if you want to withdraw usd from ATM in Canada CIBC or RBC appear to be better. TD has more services included, Scotiabank has the lowest fees, but none of them are very good for accessing money in the US.

Thanks for the information,

Bruce

Does TD Canada Trust let you get free USD withrdawals from Green Machines in the US? TD Bank NA lets you do that at Green Machines in Canada, but I forget if it works in reverse.

[user01]

I see what you mean now

[brucester4]

Does TD Canada Trust let you get free USD withrdawals from Green Machines in the US? TD Bank NA lets you do that at Green Machines in Canada, but I forget if it works in reverse.

You can withdraw from your Canadian accounts only, and you pay exchange rate only, however there would pay no addition service fees. I know most if not all Canadian USD accounts are like this, but there a lots of additional fees when you withdraw from an unrelated bank.

www.canadausbanking.com

[philosofaux]

Cross the border and make an account with Chase (their primary bank) along with Bank of America. They will ask for Driver License or other identifications, they should not ask for passport or other information to open an account. No American SSN (SIN) required.

Non sequitur.

[brucester4]

Cross the border and make an account with Chase (their primary bank) along with Bank of America. They will ask for Driver License or other identifications, they should not ask for passport or other information to open an account. No American SSN (SIN) required.

If you did this is there a way to transfer money from your Canadian USD account to Chase or Bank of America? I suspect it would easier to transfer money to one of the Canadian owed US banks. I know with RBC you can even set this up online. You could always do a wire transfer but they are expensive, an electronic funds transfer would be better. I know Xe.com can do an EFT, but it needs to involve a currency exchange. My impression is that it is much easier to send money from US to Canada, then from Canada to the US.

Bruce

http://www.canadausbanking.webs.com/

[cheapcanoehead]

Bruce:

Unless you're going from RBC US esavings to RBC Bank in the US (or vis versa) there isn't an efficient way to transfer money back and forth between the countries. You can write a cheque to yourself from your US chequing account at Canadian bank and mail it to your US bank (Chase or BOA etc.) You'll have to wait 5 business days or so for it to get there by mail, then the US fin inst. may put a hold on it since it is a foreign cheque. Also, I know some of the US banks charge a fee for accepting foreign cheques even though it's a US dollar account. Wells Fargo has a $1.50 charge for accepting cheques drawn at a Can bank regardless of the currency of the cheque. If you are going the other way from US fin inst. back to Canada there is no good way either. Our Can banks will put like a 20 or 30 day hold on foreign cheques. XE is good but yes you have to exchange currency every time you use them. Scotiabank's US chequing account has free bank drafts and money orders. This may help in that the draft or money order will likely not be held for 5 business days or whatever. Also, if you have TD Select Service with Borderless plan I believe money orders and drafts are free as well, but you're still looking at mailing the thing. I believe BMO's premium banking plan, has telephone transfers to US Financial Institutions or at least they used to.

[philosofaux]

Bruce:

Unless you're going from RBC US esavings to RBC Bank in the US (or vis versa) there isn't an efficient way to transfer money back and forth between the countries. You can write a cheque to yourself from your US chequing account at Canadian bank and mail it to your US bank (Chase or BOA etc.) You'll have to wait 5 business days or so for it to get there by mail, then the US fin inst. may put a hold on it since it is a foreign cheque. Also, I know some of the US banks charge a fee for accepting foreign cheques even though it's a US dollar account. Wells Fargo has a $1.50 charge for accepting cheques drawn at a Can bank regardless of the currency of the cheque. If you are going the other way from US fin inst. back to Canada there is no good way either. Our Can banks will put like a 20 or 30 day hold on foreign cheques. XE is good but yes you have to exchange currency every time you use them. Scotiabank's US chequing account has free bank drafts and money orders. This may help in that the draft or money order will likely not be held for 5 business days or whatever. Also, if you have TD Select Service with Borderless plan I believe money orders and drafts are free as well, but you're still looking at mailing the thing. I believe BMO's premium banking plan, has telephone transfers to US Financial Institutions or at least they used to.

US banks are not going to be happy about foreign drafts or money orders, I can tell you that.
I've never heard that about the BMO telephone transfer service before. Does anyone know anything about it?

[theBeachBoy]

when I lived in the states, I have used canadian checks/drafts from myself to myself, and it took forever to clear and get the funds...
Now I use xetrade to transfer direct from my canadian to my US account.

[brucester4]

US banks are not going to be happy about foreign drafts or money orders, I can tell you that.
I've never heard that about the BMO telephone transfer service before. Does anyone know anything about it?

When I have bought US dollar drafts or money orders from a Canadian bank they have always been drawn on a US bank, so I have never had an issue with that. Some banks include them for free with a US dollar account.

Bruce

http://canadausbanking.webs.com/

[cheapcanoehead]

http://www.bmo.com/home/personal/banking/everyday/chequing-savings/premium-banking-plan

If you click on the travel features tab you'll see the telephone transfer service there. This appears to be only available with their premium package which requires you to leave in a $5,000.00 balance at all times or pay a 25$ monthly fee.

[theBeachBoy]

When I have bought US dollar drafts or money orders from a Canadian bank they have always been drawn on a US bank, so I have never had an issue with that. Some banks include them for free with a US dollar account.

Bruce

http://canadausbanking.webs.com/

which banks?

certianly not all of them do so.

[brucester4]

which banks?

certianly not all of them do so.
There are at leaat 2 that I know of:

TD Borderless http://www.tdcanadatrust.com/accounts/borderless.jsp
Scotiabank U.S. Dollar Daily Interest Account http://www.scotiabank.com/cda/content/0,1608,CID13361_LIDen,00.html

Bruce

canadausbanking.webs.com

[Tharnax]

I've read through the thread a couple time and where there are specific posts on US Credit Cards, the posted doesn't clearly state if this is a US$ "Canadian" credit card or an actual US Credit card. There does seems to be a difference. Sites like HP.com & meijer.com, as examples, only accept US credit cards which are US based. Which means if you have a US$ Canadian credit card from a Canadian based bank your order will be rejected even if you are shipping the package to a shipping address in the US, which has been linked to your credit card.

An order with Meijer.com for example provide the following feedback:
"For security reasons, we cannot accept any orders that are place from IP addresses originating outside of the US and / or with Credit cards issued outside USA." Getting around the IP address is very easy with a VPN service, but the CC issue is more difficult. For those that suggested after getting an RBC US$ account ,which based on the posts I'm assuming I would need in order to even start the process, there is obviously a difference between a US$ "Canadian" checking/savings account and a US checking / savings account. The latter which I would need in order to start the process of setting up a US based Credit card correct?

If I understand this correctly, once the US checking/savings account is setup, you contact RBC in the US and apply for a US credit card correct?

Since, the sale by RBC of their branches to PNC Financial group does this process still work? As well, I noticed the Harris Bank no longer issues credit cards, so it looks like that option is out as well. They certainly don't make it easy do they. :confused:

However, I've finally decided it's worth the start up headache. On a very simple purchase, a product that sells for MSRP $449US can be had for around $320 most sites but Miejer has it for $269.99 but they won't take my CDN based credit card to purchase and ship the product to a US address. I can choose the international method and still ship it to the same location in the US, but they now charge a $85US shipping and handling fee to ship the same product to the same address in the US. The $85 savings pays for the annual fee and monthly costs for a US bank account for the year. That's just one purchase! Any help is appreciated!

[philosofaux]

I've read through the thread a couple time and where there are specific posts on US Credit Cards, the posted doesn't clearly state if this is a US$ "Canadian" credit card or an actual US Credit card. There does seems to be a difference. Sites like HP.com & meijer.com, as examples, only accept US credit cards which are US based. Which means if you have a US$ Canadian credit card from a Canadian based bank your order will be rejected even if you are shipping the package to a shipping address in the US, which has been linked to your credit card.

An order with Meijer.com for example provide the following feedback:
"For security reasons, we cannot accept any orders that are place from IP addresses originating outside of the US and / or with Credit cards issued outside USA." Getting around the IP address is very easy with a VPN service, but the CC issue is more difficult. For those that suggested after getting an RBC US$ account ,which based on the posts I'm assuming I would need in order to even start the process, there is obviously a difference between a US$ "Canadian" checking/savings account and a US checking / savings account. The latter which I would need in order to start the process of setting up a US based Credit card correct?

If I understand this correctly, once the US checking/savings account is setup, you contact RBC in the US and apply for a US credit card correct?

Since, the sale by RBC of their branches to PNC Financial group does this process still work? As well, I noticed the Harris Bank no longer issues credit cards, so it looks like that option is out as well. They certainly don't make it easy do they. :confused:

However, I've finally decided it's worth the start up headache. On a very simple purchase, a product that sells for MSRP $449US can be had for around $320 most sites but Miejer has it for $269.99 but they won't take my CDN based credit card to purchase and ship the product to a US address. I can choose the international method and still ship it to the same location in the US, but they now charge a $85US shipping and handling fee to ship the same product to the same address in the US. The $85 savings pays for the annual fee and monthly costs for a US bank account for the year. That's just one purchase! Any help is appreciated!

Businesses are not allowed to ban credit cards that originate outside of the US as part of compliance with the Honour All Cards rule in the Visa and MasterCard merchant agreements.

[CorSter]

If I understand this correctly, once the US checking/savings account is setup, you contact RBC in the US and apply for a US credit card correct?

Since, the sale by RBC of their branches to PNC Financial group does this process still work? As well, I noticed the Harris Bank no longer issues credit cards, so it looks like that option is out as well. They certainly don't make it easy do they. :confused:


The RBC Access USA product, which is still offered and RBC plans to continue offering it after the sale, gets you a real US Chequing Account, which of course comes with a VISA Debit card, which does work for online shopping.. so you don't NEED the US Credit Card...

I have no idea if RBC Bank USA is still accepting credit card applications from Canadians, but i'd assume either way you need the chequing account set up before trying.

[theBeachBoy]

I've read through the thread a couple time and where there are specific posts on US Credit Cards, the posted doesn't clearly state if this is a US$ "Canadian" credit card or an actual US Credit card. There does seems to be a difference. Sites like HP.com & meijer.com, as examples, only accept US credit cards which are US based. Which means if you have a US$ Canadian credit card from a Canadian based bank your order will be rejected even if you are shipping the package to a shipping address in the US, which has been linked to your credit card.


many online stores require delivery and billing addresses to be the same.

that's why I have a US credit card, with US address, but I'mnot sure how someone can do it without a valid US SSN and address...

[nauru]

RBC USA Platinum Rewards credit card (the proper US credit card from RBC USA) allows you to have multiple addresses registered on the card, yet only have statements sent to one address. So you can register a dummy address in the USA and then have all your purchases shipped to your home in Canada. So you can easily bypass the anti-Canada restrictions on US websites, since it appears you have a genuine US credit card linked to a genuine US billing address. You can of course choose for your billing address to be different from your shipping address when you make the purchase so that it's billed to someplace in America (2964 Columbia Street, Torrance CA 90503 is my favourite) but shipped to Canada.

[philosofaux]

RBC sent out a survey reiterating their commitment to the US market:

RBC intends to have banking representatives in offices in the U.S. that can help you with your banking needs.

The survey included services that RBC is considering adding to their US services:

Deposit paper checks through your smart phone by taking a picture and sending it to RBC
Conduct business through a banking representative that you see in person at another location
Get money from any ATM nationwide and RBC won't charge you. And if other banks charge you, we'll reimburse you
Make free online transfers between your RBC accounts and your accounts at other banks
Make a wire transfer with no charges from RBC

Unfortunately, it seems that RBC is planning to move the product upmarket, which will also mean higher fees.

Possible names being surveyed include:

RBC Private Bank
RBC Banking
RBC Direct
RBC Royal Bank
RBC US Banking
RBC Signature Bank
RBC

They were also interested in finding out if clients would appreciate advice and/or help with the following:

Estate Management
Owning real estate in the U.S.
Purchasing property 101
Cross border tax implications
Currency rate forecasts
Real estate investing and trends

Finally, they asked questions about income, investments and assets, culminating with this:

Approximately what percent of your household's total investable assets are held at RBC US?

It seems likely that RBC is considering the following:
Centering their US operations on high net worth clients who have real estate and/or sizable assets in both countries; an HSBC Premier, but for the US and Canada only.
Maintaining a sort of "RBC Direct", to borrow their phrasing, an online-only bank that could operate highly-efficiently, similar to Ally or ING Direct but with better cross-border integration.
Pursuing both of these strategies.

[theBeachBoy]

seems they want to be like capital one in the US (although capital one has branches in some areas)

with my capital one account, I can withdraw anywhere, free cheques, no fee banking, no minimum amount to have, etc.

[philosofaux]

seems they want to be like capital one in the US (although capital one has branches in some areas)

with my capital one account, I can withdraw anywhere, free cheques, no fee banking, no minimum amount to have, etc.

Not really. CapOne has 1,000 branches and is heavily dependent on consumer lending. No minimum, free cheques, ABM reimbursements etc are extremely common in US banking, although CapOne is generally more generous.

They sound much more like wanting to operate similar to a mix between HSBC Premier and ING Direct. They might aim for the Charles Schwab Bank model, free banking that attracts people to more profitable USD investment and wealth management products.

[jtjonnes]

So is getting a RBC Access USA account then switching it to the free account the best option as BMO Harris has now removed their free account?

[philosofaux]

So is getting a RBC Access USA account then switching it to the free account the best option as BMO Harris has now removed their free account?

. . . No.
Your free account will magically turn into a PNC account in a few months, and then you'll be screwed.

[tiger_handheld]

Businesses are not allowed to ban credit cards that originate outside of the US as part of compliance with the Honour All Cards rule in the Visa and MasterCard merchant agreements.

Craigslist.org bans Visa/MC's that originate outside the US.
Please forward me the link that shows this in the merchant agreement.

[philosofaux]

Craigslist.org bans Visa/MC's that originate outside the US.
Please forward me the link that shows this in the merchant agreement.

Ugh.


Visa merchants may not refuse to accept a Visa product that is properly presented for payment, for example, on the basis that the card is foreign-issued[2], or co-branded with the merchant’s competitor's mark. Merchants may steer customers to an alternative method of payment, such as providing discounts for cash, but may not do so in a confusing manner that denies consumer choice. Merchants may also consider whether present circumstances create undue risk, for example if the sale involves high-value electronics, but the card signature panel is not signed, and the cardholder does not have any other identification.
-----
[2] In the US, Canada, and Australia, merchants may decline to accept certain categories of Visa products for domestically issued cards.


The full rules are online here:
VISA INTERNATIONAL OPERATING REGULATIONS (http://usa.visa.com/merchants/operations/op_regulations.html)
MasterCard Rules (US Edition) (http://www.mastercard.com/us/merchant/support/rules.html)

[rebel2232]

. .
Your free account will magically turn into a PNC account in a few months, and then you'll be screwed.

Doubt it...RBC has always indicated that they plan to keep a RBC USA account for Canadians with the ability to transfer money from Canada to the US.

[TyrionLannister]

Doubt it...RBC has always indicated that they plan to keep a RBC USA account for Canadians with the ability to transfer money from Canada to the US.

I think that's only for the RBC Access USA accounts, not the free ones that some people got afterwards and cancelled their Access USA ones.

[nauru]

I think that's only for the RBC Access USA accounts, not the free ones that some people got afterwards and cancelled their Access USA ones.

That's quite an assumption; it's unclear how you could have arrived at such a view.

Both accounts allow people to transfer between Canada and USA for seamlessly and costlessly and both accounts are used by many of their Canadian clients to do exactly that.

[philosofaux]

Doubt it...RBC has always indicated that they plan to keep a RBC USA account for Canadians with the ability to transfer money from Canada to the US.

Did you read what we said? We said that Royal Embassy / Access accounts will be OK; free checking is a different matter.


That's quite an assumption; it's unclear how you could have arrived at such a view.

Both accounts allow people to transfer between Canada and USA for seamlessly and costlessly and both accounts are used by many of their Canadian clients to do exactly that.

RBC Bank USA has said over and over again that support for transfers between non-Embassy/Access accounts and RBC Royal Bank is not supported officially and is not guaranteed to continue in the future.

[rebel2232]

Did you read what we said? We said that Royal Embassy / Access accounts will be OK; free checking is a different matter.



RBC Bank USA has said over and over again that support for transfers between non-Embassy/Access accounts and RBC Royal Bank is not supported officially and is not guaranteed to continue in the future.

Well why the hell did you say "Your free account will magically turn into a PNC account in a few months, and then you'll be screwed. " You won't be "SCREWED", switch back to the Access Account (or open a new one)....you won't be screwed. Gee...to keep it free you just need 700 bucks in the account for the same features as the free account. Not a big deal.

[VNex]

OK everyone - to wrap up the valuable info in this thread, as it stands currently, it seems like this is the best option to setup a true US-account: (Pls correct me if I'm wrong)

Walk into a RBC Canadian branch, and say that you want to open a RBC US Checking account (called Royal Embassy/Access??) and deposit at least $700 to waive the monthly fee.

Important Questions:
1- Can you open this account without having a RBC Canadian account? I bank with PCF, and would like to be able to connect it with this RBC USD account. Possible?
2- I read in an older post that with this RBC USD account, you can withdraw cash from ATMs in the US (BoA, PNC, etc) for free without any charges. Is this still true?
3- Solely for building US credit, what would be the process to get a US CC after this account? Just call them up and apply? Or do they not allow that anymore for Canadians?

[philosofaux]

Well why the hell did you say "Your free account will magically turn into a PNC account in a few months, and then you'll be screwed. " You won't be "SCREWED", switch back to the Access Account (or open a new one)....you won't be screwed. Gee...to keep it free you just need 700 bucks in the account for the same features as the free account. Not a big deal.

No, you will be screwed, because once your account becomes a PNC account, you won't be able to switch it back. You're going to have to open a new account and write a cheque to it from the old account, which you'll then have to close. It'll be a PITA for those people, especially since they won't be able to transfer it through Canada to make the transition since the RBC link will be broken.

[rebel2232]

No, you will be screwed, because once your account becomes a PNC account, you won't be able to switch it back. You're going to have to open a new account and write a cheque to it from the old account, which you'll then have to close. It'll be a PITA for those people, especially since they won't be able to transfer it through Canada to make the transition since the RBC link will be broken.

I'm sure they know which Canadians have the FREE account and will advise them prior to the change. They may even switch them back to the Access account. Things like this are thought out by the banks...they aren't idiots and typically try to keep all customers happy.

[Tharnax]

OK everyone - to wrap up the valuable info in this thread, as it stands currently, it seems like this is the best option to setup a true US-account: (Pls correct me if I'm wrong)

Walk into a RBC Canadian branch, and say that you want to open a RBC US Checking account (called Royal Embassy/Access??) and deposit at least $700 to waive the monthly fee.

Important Questions:
1- Can you open this account without having a RBC Canadian account? I bank with PCF, and would like to be able to connect it with this RBC USD account. Possible?
2- I read in an older post that with this RBC USD account, you can withdraw cash from ATMs in the US (BoA, PNC, etc) for free without any charges. Is this still true?
3- Solely for building US credit, what would be the process to get a US CC after this account? Just call them up and apply? Or do they not allow that anymore for Canadians?

Going to the RBC head office branch later today. I will ask these questions as it's the same questions I have. Hopefully I get a knowledgeable employee who can set me up with the correct account and provide me the correct information.

[VNex]

OK everyone - to wrap up the valuable info in this thread, as it stands currently, it seems like this is the best option to setup a true US-account: (Pls correct me if I'm wrong)

Walk into a RBC Canadian branch, and say that you want to open a RBC US Checking account (called Royal Embassy/Access??) and deposit at least $700 to waive the monthly fee.

Important Questions:
1- Can you open this account without having a RBC Canadian account? I bank with PCF, and would like to be able to connect it with this RBC USD account. Possible?
2- I read in an older post that with this RBC USD account, you can withdraw cash from ATMs in the US (BoA, PNC, etc) for free without any charges. Is this still true?
3- Solely for building US credit, what would be the process to get a US CC after this account? Just call them up and apply? Or do they not allow that anymore for Canadians?

Going to the RBC head office branch later today. I will ask these questions as it's the same questions I have. Hopefully I get a knowledgeable employee who can set me up with the correct account and provide me the correct information.
Great, would love to hear about your experience and have these questions answered.

[Tharnax]

Great, would love to hear about your experience and have these questions answered.

Questions were:

Walk into a RBC Canadian branch, and say that you want to open a RBC US Checking account (called Royal Embassy/Access??) and deposit at least $700 to waive the monthly fee.

Important Questions:
1- Can you open this account without having a RBC Canadian account? I bank with PCF, and would like to be able to connect it with this RBC USD account. Possible?
2- I read in an older post that with this RBC USD account, you can withdraw cash from ATMs in the US (BoA, PNC, etc) for free without any charges. Is this still true?
3- Solely for building US credit, what would be the process to get a US CC after this account? Just call them up and apply? Or do they not allow that anymore for Canadians?

ANSWERS!

I just walked got back from walking into the RBC Head office Canadian branch and opened an RBC Access USA account. No initial deposit is required but a deposit of $700 is required within 30 days to avoid the monthly fee.

1. - No! In order for the account manager to setup the RBC Access USD with online access you NEED a RBC account in order to get issued a debit card. I setup a no-fee, no-minimum balance RBC CDN & USD savings account. With this setup I can either deposit money directly into the CDN savings account through an ATM or online transfer, then convert and transfer it to the RBC access USD account. Or I can deposit USD cash or cheques at a teller directly into my USD Canadian savings account and then electronically transfer to my RBC access USD account. I can also using online transfer, transfer either CAD or USD into the RBC Access USD account (CAD will obviously be converted to USD at RBC rates). As there is no fee for either savings account and since I have the ability to convert CAD to USD at PAR, I have no problems with this as I can walk into a teller and deposit the cash directly into my USD savings account and then transfer it online to the RBC Access USD account.

2. - Yes, this is true! Confirmed with Account Manager that both BofA and PNC are no fee. Didn't discuss other banks though.

3. - Yes, call them up and apply. They still allow this, I will confirm once this process is underway. Access to the USD & CAD savings accounts are instant, it takes up to two business days for the RBC Access USD account to appear online. If it doesn't appear in two business days I can call and they can setup my online access at the same time setup my application for the VISA Platinum rewards (no-fee) card.

[firetree]

After a quick glance of this thread,i couldn't absorb all the info all at once and some are little confusing. Anyhow,here is my scenerio: by the end of the yr,i might buy a car from the states. Of coz,have to get money down there,should i go to RBC and open a US account and transfer money from my RBC canadian account? Is this a good way of doing it?
Also,i scan some of those US credit card yesterday from Fatwallet.com and a lot of them are very attractive. e.g the Hyatt credit card lets you have 2 free nights for a fee of something like $100. Also,southwest CC lets you have 2 RT if you open one up! My question is:How can i get a hold of one of these cards? The US credit card needs you to provide the SSN which i don't have. My next question is what's the easiest and quickest way for me to get SSN? Alternatively,i have a relative living down the states where i can use as US address.

Note:One way or the other i'm going to get one of these cards. I can just ask my relative in the states to apply for one for himself and i get to use the reward. Some of these deals are transferable...meaning the cardholder doesn't have to be there!

Any suggestions?

[ovovov]

i beg to be different on those funny replies.

one way to build credit history in the US is to have a SSN.
the other way is have a name and DOB.( no SSN required).

==> source: Book: repair your credit score for dummies( published in US, can be found in VPL.)

[theBeachBoy]

After a quick glance of this thread,i couldn't absorb all the info all at once and some are little confusing. Anyhow,here is my scenerio: by the end of the yr,i might buy a car from the states. Of coz,have to get money down there,should i go to RBC and open a US account and transfer money from my RBC canadian account? Is this a good way of doing it?
Also,i scan some of those US credit card yesterday from Fatwallet.com and a lot of them are very attractive. e.g the Hyatt credit card lets you have 2 free nights for a fee of something like $100. Also,southwest CC lets you have 2 RT if you open one up! My question is:How can i get a hold of one of these cards? The US credit card needs you to provide the SSN which i don't have. My next question is what's the easiest and quickest way for me to get SSN? Alternatively,i have a relative living down the states where i can use as US address.

Note:One way or the other i'm going to get one of these cards. I can just ask my relative in the states to apply for one for himself and i get to use the reward. Some of these deals are transferable...meaning the cardholder doesn't have to be there!

Any suggestions?

I bought a car in the US and I simply did a wire transfer to the guy's banka ccount after seeing the car. No need for a USD bank account, just use calforex or any other similar places.

For the credit card, you can get "store" credit cards with no SSN and no US address, but it's complicated to pay your balances unless you have a US based bank account (I guess RBC works).
To get a "real" credit card, you need a SSN, I have no found other ways to do it nor seen people do it.

Even if you have a relative with a US address, it will be tricky to get your own credit card if you do not have SSN, utility bills, etc. For my credit card/bank account, I had to use my SSN and provide utility bills as my driver's licence was canadian.

[VNex]

ANSWERS!

1. - No! In order for the account manager to setup the RBC Access USD with online access you NEED a RBC account in order to get issued a debit card. I setup a no-fee, no-minimum balance RBC CDN & USD savings account. With this setup I can either deposit money directly into the CDN savings account through an ATM or online transfer, then convert and transfer it to the RBC access USD account. Or I can deposit USD cash or cheques at a teller directly into my USD Canadian savings account and then electronically transfer to my RBC access USD account. I can also using online transfer, transfer either CAD or USD into the RBC Access USD account (CAD will obviously be converted to USD at RBC rates). As there is no fee for either savings account and since I have the ability to convert CAD to USD at PAR, I have no problems with this as I can walk into a teller and deposit the cash directly into my USD savings account and then transfer it online to the RBC Access USD account.

2. - Yes, this is true! Confirmed with Account Manager that both BofA and PNC are no fee. Didn't discuss other banks though.

3. - Yes, call them up and apply. They still allow this, I will confirm once this process is underway. Access to the USD & CAD savings accounts are instant, it takes up to two business days for the RBC Access USD account to appear online. If it doesn't appear in two business days I can call and they can setup my online access at the same time setup my application for the VISA Platinum rewards (no-fee) card.

Good stuff Tharnax, thanks for the update!

A couple things to clear up:

1. When you say you "setup a no-fee RBC CDN & USD savings account", is that one account with dual currencies or 2 separate accounts? Do you have the exact names of these accounts, as on their website they have many different savings accounts, and looks like they all have transaction fees.

2. Is this RBC Visa Platinum Rewards card is a true US-based credit card, which will build your US credit history? How would they approve you for it if you don't have any previous US credit in the first place? Some say that you need a SSN to get a true US-based CC which builds your credit (as opposed to a debit card with cc logo, which doesn't). Is this true?

I know these questions may be very detailed and more than just Tharnax could answer, so others pls chip in with what you know.

[Tharnax]

Good stuff Tharnax, thanks for the update!

A few things to clear up:

1. Do you have the exact names of these accounts, as on their website they have many different savings accounts, and looks like they all have transaction fees.

2.Are their regular exchange rates for CAD-USD below par?

3. Some say that you need a SSN to get a true US-based CC which builds your credit (as opposed to a debit card with cc logo, which doesn't). Is this true?

I know these questions may be very detailed and more than just Tharnax could answer, so [B]pls others chip in with what you know!

1. I will get the names, unfortunately, I didn't have time to log into the account online last night. But I'm sure the exact names will be listed when I log into my accounts. If someone already has these accounts they can probably provide the info sooner. The US & CDN savings accounts are two separate accounts. I could have just gone with the USD savings account as I'm likely never to use the CDN savings account but since it was confirmed 8 times over that there were no fees or minimum balance required I agreed to open it.

2. Yes, all banks will charge a "commission/fee" for exchange the funds for you. My experience is banks do not have the best rates for exchanging money. Fortunately, I have a family member who works for a financial institution which can exchange money from to USD from CDN with no fees/commission, so that isn't a concern for myself. Some have mention online foreign exchange companies that have better rates then banks. I have no personal experience with these but the goal would be to link up your PC CDN$ account and your RBC USD savings account, do they exchange with the online company, then transfer the USD funds from the RBC USD savings account to the RBC access USD account.

3. Yes, that is 100% true for all non-store based CCs. The only current work around right now is the RBC Platinum Rewards Visa card offered through RBCbank.com (http://rbcbank.com/creditcards/cid-95704.html). As stated a couple posts up, without a US SIN number there is no other way to obtain a US based bank issued CC. There is a post a number of pages back which suggests otherwise but if you go to the site and follow through the links, you will quickly learn there is no other way. Currently this seems to me, based on all my research, the only way to do to obtain a bank issued CC from a "US" bank. That certainly may change in the future as I have no knowledge of future offers by any bank on either side of the boarder.

I will update and provide posts as I work through the process. Next step will be applying for the RBC Platinum Rewards Visa card and depositing $700+ USD into the RBC Access USD account using the USD savings account.

[Tharnax]

After a quick glance of this thread,i couldn't absorb all the info all at once and some are little confusing. Anyhow,here is my scenerio: by the end of the yr,i might buy a car from the states. Of coz,have to get money down there,should i go to RBC and open a US account and transfer money from my RBC canadian account? Is this a good way of doing it?
Also,i scan some of those US credit card yesterday from Fatwallet.com and a lot of them are very attractive. e.g the Hyatt credit card lets you have 2 free nights for a fee of something like $100. Also,southwest CC lets you have 2 RT if you open one up! My question is:How can i get a hold of one of these cards? The US credit card needs you to provide the SSN which i don't have. My next question is what's the easiest and quickest way for me to get SSN? Alternatively,i have a relative living down the states where i can use as US address.

Note:One way or the other i'm going to get one of these cards. I can just ask my relative in the states to apply for one for himself and i get to use the reward. Some of these deals are transferable...meaning the cardholder doesn't have to be there!

Any suggestions?

Agree with a previous post. There is absolutely no reason to open a USD account just to purchase a vehicle. There are many, many alternatives when purchasing a vehicle. When the purchase is made through a dealer, you have the option of doing a USD wire transfer or mailing a USD certified check. This can be done from any USD account at any bank that offers one. For private deals, you are only going to want to use USD certified check as you don't want to pay all the money for the vehicle up front or you risk the seller disappearing leaving you with little to no recourse. I've purchased 4 vehicles from the US, two private, one used through a dealer and one brand new from a dealer. All of these were done without having a US based USD bank account. The first private deal (the first car I bought in 2004 across the boarder) was done without any USD bank account. The bank converted funds from my CDN account into USDs (at their crappy rate) and issued me a USD certified check in the name of the seller.

The reason for a US based USD bank account is to get a US based USD Credit Card so that there are no issues purchasing any product from a US online store, such as HP.com and others that won't take a non-US based CC, even if they are "required" to do so.

[greenmoon]

2. Is this RBC Visa Platinum Rewards card is a true US-based credit card, which will build your US credit history? How would they approve you for it if you don't have any previous US credit in the first place? Some say that you need a SSN to get a true US-based CC which builds your credit (as opposed to a debit card with cc logo, which doesn't). Is this true?

It is my understanding (based on conversations with RBC Bank reps over the phone) that the only reason RBC Bank makes this kind of exception and issues a credit card without asking for SSN is because you already have an account with RBC in Canada and your Canadian and American accounts are linked. In such a case they trust you in the same way RBC in Canada does. They would not issue you that US-based Visa credit card without SSN if you do not already have an RBC account in Canada.

I do believe this might change in the future if the affiliation between RBC Royal Bank in Canada and RBC Bank in the USA is further reduced or broken altogether.

[theBeachBoy]

I'm wondering how you can build US credit history with Equifax USA, TransUnion USA or Experian without having a SSN.

RBC might issue you a true credit card, US based, but I'm not sure they would report your credit to the US credit bureau... anybody ha a US credit score without a US SSN?

[zafarjamal]

you can do 2 options
1 - use your CDN amex card and call them up to say you're moving
then give them your RBC Bank Usa banking info to verify
they then issue you a USD amex on a US credit bureau.

or

2 - Call up discover and setup a credit card with them
they adjudicate on your SIN/cdn history but issue and report to a US bureau.

these 2 plus my RBC bank usa is a win/win/win for me

[brunes]

It is my understanding (based on conversations with RBC Bank reps over the phone) that the only reason RBC Bank makes this kind of exception and issues a credit card without asking for SSN is because you already have an account with RBC in Canada and your Canadian and American accounts are linked. In such a case they trust you in the same way RBC in Canada does. They would not issue you that US-based Visa credit card without SSN if you do not already have an RBC account in Canada.

I do believe this might change in the future if the affiliation between RBC Royal Bank in Canada and RBC Bank in the USA is further reduced or broken altogether.

You used to be able to open a Target Red Visa without a SSN, all you needed was a Canadian SIN and driver's license. But this was before the housing bubble burst and I think they may have changed this regulation; although mine still works.

[theBeachBoy]

you can do 2 options
1 - use your CDN amex card and call them up to say you're moving
then give them your RBC Bank Usa banking info to verify
they then issue you a USD amex on a US credit bureau.

or

2 - Call up discover and setup a credit card with them
they adjudicate on your SIN/cdn history but issue and report to a US bureau.

these 2 plus my RBC bank usa is a win/win/win for me

So i guess you can access your credit score without a SSN.
When I got mine from equifax, Ihad to provide SSN and a bunch of other info.

[Tharnax]

Good stuff Tharnax, thanks for the update!

A couple things to clear up:

1. When you say you "setup a no-fee RBC CDN & USD savings account", is that one account with dual currencies or 2 separate accounts? Do you have the exact names of these accounts, as on their website they have many different savings accounts, and looks like they all have transaction fees.


Finally logged into my accounts online this morning here are the names of the two CDN based USD & CAD accounts. The RBC Access USD account has not yet been linked to my CDN debit card.

USD Account (http://www.rbcroyalbank.com/products/deposits/us-e-savings.html): USD RBC U.S. High Interest eSavings
CAD Account (http://www.rbcroyalbank.com/products/deposits/day-to-day-savings.html): CAD RBC Day to Day Savings

These are the exact names listed on the account when I log in to review my $0.00 balance and I linked them from the RBC site. As said earlier, you do not need the CDN day-to-day savings accounts but you will need the U.S. High Interest eSavings in order to setup access to the RBC Access USD account.

Planning on phoning into today to setup the RBC VISA Platinum Rewards card, will post up progress.

[philosofaux]

Finally logged into my accounts online this morning here are the names of the two CDN based USD & CAD accounts. The RBC Access USD account has not yet been linked to my CDN debit card.

USD Account (http://www.rbcroyalbank.com/products/deposits/us-e-savings.html): USD RBC U.S. High Interest eSavings
CAD Account (http://www.rbcroyalbank.com/products/deposits/day-to-day-savings.html): CAD RBC Day to Day Savings

These are the exact names listed on the account when I log in to review my $0.00 balance and I linked them from the RBC site. As said earlier, you do not need the CDN day-to-day savings accounts but you will need the U.S. High Interest eSavings in order to setup access to the RBC Access USD account.

Planning on phoning into today to setup the RBC VISA Platinum Rewards card, will post up progress.

They're going to send you a separate debit card for the Access USA account.

[amhutap]

2 - Call up discover and setup a credit card with them
they adjudicate on your SIN/cdn history but issue and report to a US bureau.



Would you please share more details on the Discover Card application process? Like...

i) Did you apply on the web or phone? (Their Web app does not seem to accept Canadian addresses)
ii) Which Canadian credit bureau did they hit? (Transunion?)
iii) Any documents you had to provide/fax over?
iv) What card did you end up getting or advise to get for straight forward rewards?
v) Credit line they granted as compared to your last Canadian issued credit card's limit?

Thanks so much!

PS. Called Desjardins Florida (really long wait and calls returned weeks later) and they said they has a Mastercard which you can apply for from their Canadian or Florida branches, unsure if you can on the phone, did not try yet.

[peridot]

So I just called RBC in the States and point blank asked them if I would be able to close my Access account once I had a free chequing account opened in order to avoid any fees. I told him that I was reading online that this was possible. The rep said that he knew exactly what I was reading about and that this was false information. He said that by closing the Access account and operating only with the free chequing account, I would be charged wire transfer fees for any transaction between the 2 countries. Now I'm really confused after reading much to the contrary on this thread!

[cool canuck]

Can someone give an indication of the fees for using the RBC US Access and RBC Cdn based US accounts?

I'm most interested in the US based credit card - The RBCBank Visa Platinum Rewards. If I wanted to pay this off from Canadian funds say in cash, I would need to deposit into the Canadian account (deposits are free presumably), then transfer it to the Cdn based US dollar account (one free debit per month, probably 0.025 charge on exchange), then transfer from Cdn based US to RBCBank US account (one free debit per month), then online payment from RBCBank US account for the credit card (free with $700 balance). So basically instead of paying $65 for the RBC USD Visa I'll be paying maybe $3.50 in lost interest on the $700? Would I even need to move money into the RBCBank US account to pay the visa, or could I do it from the Cdn based US account?

Also, I don't see any downsides in terms of card benefits (both are $1 = 1 point), insurance coverage appears similar although the US site is short on details (can anyone comment), US card has visa.com rewards online benefits, online shopping advantage as US based card, the only question maybe how easy is it to redeem RBC rewards? Do they have gift cards - and will they ship to Canada? Seems like a really good deal.

[nabeel]

transfer it to the Cdn based US dollar account (one free debit per month, probably 0.025 charge on exchange), then transfer from Cdn based US to RBCBank US account (one free debit per month)Transfer to/from RBC C$ eSavings and RBC US$ eSavings and RBC USA Checking don't ding the one free debit per month.

Also, you would need to move the funds into the RBC USA Checking account to pay the RBC USA Visa, but there is no reason you couldn't just transfer from RBC C$ eSavings directly to RBC USA Checking (skipping RBC US$ eSavings).

[nauru]

So I just called RBC in the States and point blank asked them if I would be able to close my Access account once I had a free chequing account opened in order to avoid any fees. I told him that I was reading online that this was possible. The rep said that he knew exactly what I was reading about and that this was false information. He said that by closing the Access account and operating only with the free chequing account, I would be charged wire transfer fees for any transaction between the 2 countries. Now I'm really confused after reading much to the contrary on this thread!

I think this representative is mistaken. Even if his description of the official policy is correct (which I doubt based on my own and others' experiences) the fact of the matter is that in practice there is no wire transfer fee for the transaction you described when using the free chequing account.

There is a lot of confusion among RBC employees about these accounts, and it's been this way for years now.

[peridot]

Transfer to/from RBC C$ eSavings and RBC US$ eSavings and RBC USA Checking don't ding the one free debit per month.

Also, you would need to move the funds into the RBC USA Checking account to pay the RBC USA Visa, but there is no reason you couldn't just transfer from RBC C$ eSavings directly to RBC USA Checking (skipping RBC US$ eSavings).

Please bear with a newbie to this all who currently has no RBC accounts. I know I'm asking what has already been touched on, but let me get this clear:

1. go to RBC Canada and set up a Canadian Savings Account (how much a month is this?)
2. At same time, set up an Access account which is actually an American account
3. Go home; call RBC USA and now that I have Access Account, I can ask for their free credit card
4. Also, at this time, could I ask them to set up the free chequing account?
5. Once I have the free chequing account set up, call US-RBC again and ask them to close my Access account .
6. To pay my new US-based RBC Visa, transfer the amount due from my PC Financial Account to my RBC Canadian savings account.
7. Transfer this same amount to the US chequing account.
8. Arrange it so that my US Visa balance due is automatically removed from my US chequing account (is this possible?)

[adr1an]

It seems like there is a lot of interest in setting up a US based account and credit card without any real usage scenario.

If you look at RBC's exchange rates for CAD to USD, the spread is ± 2.5%

CAD credit cards, usually, charge a 2.5% foreign transaction fee. Desjardins hits you at 1.8%. There may be an extra 1% hit from VISA/MasterCard, but I'm thinking not as the last time I looked at what I was charged for a transaction and compared it to the Bank of Canada closing rate, the 2.5% includes the 1% that VISA/MasterCard take. I may be wrong here, so 3.5% max.

How many transactions are you doing that are worth the maximum possible 1% savings? This, considering you are already probably smoking some RFD crack and area already on a "rewards" card that gives you more than 1% in "benefits".

Yes, you can get better exchange rates. But at what cost. For RBC, stick $5000 in and get RBC Bank USA Access _Preferred_. Considering all the whining people are doing about a $700 minimum balance, and ways around it, is this even reasonable?

If you don't care about all this ridiculousness, and have an actual need to hold US dollars, to avoid currency variation, and exchange fees, you'd probably have a TD Borderless.

But YES, if you need a US Dollar account hosted by a US Bank, the easiest way is through RBC (book an appointment at your local branch) who hooks you up with RBC Bank USA. The credit card is only useful if you shop at places that deny "foreign" credit cards, so good luck entering you Canadian address into their online system. But, no you insist on having a fraudulent US-based "home" address.

Seriously...

[nauru]

It seems like there is a lot of interest in setting up a US based account and credit card without any real usage scenario.

If you look at RBC's exchange rates for CAD to USD, the spread is ± 2.5%

CAD credit cards, usually, charge a 2.5% foreign transaction fee. Desjardins hits you at 1.8%. There may be an extra 1% hit from VISA/MasterCard, but I'm thinking not as the last time I looked at what I was charged for a transaction and compared it to the Bank of Canada closing rate, the 2.5% includes the 1% that VISA/MasterCard take. I may be wrong here, so 3.5% max.

How many transactions are you doing that are worth the maximum possible 1% savings? This, considering you are already probably smoking some RFD crack and area already on a "rewards" card that gives you more than 1% in "benefits".

Yes, you can get better exchange rates. But at what cost. For RBC, stick $5000 in and get RBC Bank USA Access _Preferred_. Considering all the whining people are doing about a $700 minimum balance, and ways around it, is this even reasonable?

If you don't care about all this ridiculousness, and have an actual need to hold US dollars, to avoid currency variation, and exchange fees, you'd probably have a TD Borderless.

But YES, if you need a US Dollar account hosted by a US Bank, the easiest way is through RBC (book an appointment at your local branch) who hooks you up with RBC Bank USA. The credit card is only useful if you shop at places that deny "foreign" credit cards, so good luck entering you Canadian address into their online system. But, no you insist on having a fraudulent US-based "home" address.

Seriously...

It's not fraudulent to choose a US billing address to place as a secondary on your US card. Your billing address can be set to 369 Billabong Byway in Timbuktu if you like, there is nothing fraudulent about that. Billing address can be anything at all, it's the user's choice. And it's the billing address that determines whether your card is accepted, not your home address. Many of us choose to use 2964 Columbia Street, Torrance California 90503 (the address of Shipito, even though we know nothing will be sent there), as a second billing address on our US bank accounts and US credit cards, which we can then enter in US forms that require a US card with a US address. This is an option that RBC USA provides for the convenience of their clients. It's useful.

TD Borderless is considered by many to be inferior to RBC USA due to many people's personal needs and/or preferences.

(You go on to make some irrelevant comments about credit card exchange fees which do not apply to anyone here since a rational person will use their US-based card at US-based merchants, and their Canadian card at Canada-based merchants. If you have a card for each country there is no reason to pay a surcharge or exchange rate spread in either country and discussion about them is irrelevant.)

Many of us spend CAD income in Canada, and spend USD income in the US. We hardly ever make an exchange, and when we do, we don't use a bank. So the RBC spread is irrelevant. In canada we have the RBC USD savings account which is free with no minimum balance and allows us to access US cash we transfered from our RBC USA free chequing account via Canadian bank without paying a penny. So there is always USD cash available, for free, no exchange required, from any RBC branch in Canada.

There is also the convenience of having genuine US financial presence in many situations (including genuine US bank account, US billing address, US debit card, US credit card, US home branch), and the fact that with the proper setup there is no monthly fee or transaction fee for any of these features ever... if you need more reasons feel free to do a bit of reading. Or you can also stop reading and instead go make a new thread where you bleat the virtues of paying TD 20 bucks a month in either cash or forgone interest in order to have their less useful benefits.

(Seriously.)

[Jsmanson]

Finally logged into my accounts online this morning here are the names of the two CDN based USD & CAD accounts. The RBC Access USD account has not yet been linked to my CDN debit card.

USD Account (http://www.rbcroyalbank.com/products/deposits/us-e-savings.html): USD RBC U.S. High Interest eSavings
CAD Account (http://www.rbcroyalbank.com/products/deposits/day-to-day-savings.html): CAD RBC Day to Day Savings

These are the exact names listed on the account when I log in to review my $0.00 balance and I linked them from the RBC site. As said earlier, you do not need the CDN day-to-day savings accounts but you will need the U.S. High Interest eSavings in order to setup access to the RBC Access USD account.

Planning on phoning into today to setup the RBC VISA Platinum Rewards card, will post up progress.


Just curious if you magaed to get the US Visa Card set up through Royal bank USA.. Any issues?

John

[cool canuck]

Many of us spend CAD income in Canada, and spend USD income in the US. We hardly ever make an exchange, and when we do, we don't use a bank. So the RBC spread is irrelevant.

Agreed, I purchase USD at a preferable rate through work, so I prefer to shop in USD, plus I bought extra funds in the 96-98 cent range in anticipation of the CAD$ losing some ground (which of course it has). When you consider the savings on exchange, not to mention that everything is 25% cheaper in the U.S. I usually save up my shopping trips for when I visit the U.S.

[Jonavin]

To another point, I often travel to the US about once a month and use that opportunity to buy stuff. If I buy something from a store and then return it later I get hit with exchange fees buying and getting my credit back. So I couldn't easily buy 3 cameras and return the other two I don't want. I'd basically lose 5% on the items I return. Or if I buy a product that ends up being total garbage, returning means I also have this net 5% lost.

And yes, I have alternate access to better rates than the usual 2.5% credit card conversion.

[Tharnax]

Just curious if you magaed to get the US Visa Card set up through Royal bank USA.. Any issues?

John

Apologies in advance for not updating sooner. Thanks to the individual who PM'd me for the status and reminding me to go back here and update this thread.

Due to having everything now setup - apologies for the very long post.

When I left off, I had went to an RBC account manager and opened three NO FEE accounts:
USD RBC U.S. High Interest eSavings - Canadian - US$
CAD RBC Day to Day Savings - Canadian - CDN$
US Access Checking account - US - US$

I received a temporary debt card with my debt card number and PIN, which I had setup with the personal banking officer.
I was able to log into RBC Canada and access both my Canadian accounts

IMPORTANT!!!! - a few days later I received an email from my Account Manager with my US access account # Keep this somewhere safe it is needed later

Less then a week later I received my real RBC debt card (replace temporary debt card above).

Between 1 & 2 weeks later I received my US Access debt card. I called to activate but they required a SIN to activate the account so I had to wait and speak with a customer service representative (CSR). After a 15 minute wait (approximately 6:30pm on a weekday), I spoke with a CSR and they immediately asked for my US access account number. Of course, I figured it was my debt card number (nope), I figured they were referring to the US$ account in Canada (nope), I had to remember 2 weeks later that I had received my US access account number through email from my Account Manager. And, of course, I had to remember what email address I used to setup the accounts. :facepalm: Anyway, after about 5 minutes of excuses I found it and with the account number and other securities means besides SIN (which I don't have), the CSR used other means, home address, # of RBC accounts, etc (usual stuff) to validate who I was and the CSR activated the debit card.

I asked about online access and told her the purpose for the account. The CSR walked me through the online process, how I access my US access account online and how I link my US access account to my Canadian online accounts. CSR was very helpful and straight forward. I was told I would be sent an access "number" in the mail which I would receive in a couple weeks. (5-10 business days). Until then I could not link the accounts, but I could log in and "view only" the US access account (which of course was boring since it had a $0 balance).

Once I had activated the card, before I hung up with the CSR, I asked if I could apply for a US Platinum Visa Rewards Card. I was informed that I could and it would take 10 minutes to go through the "process". Standard visa application questions were asked as well as what "limit" I would like on the card. I informed the CSR the limit, finalized the application process and completed the card. I hung up the phone and immediately went on the computer to log in and setup access to the US access account so I would remember. Sure enough, I could "view" the $0 balance but I could not link and every time I logged in I had to by-pass the "active" account button because it would be a while before I received the "activation code".

Approximately, 4 business days later, I received an email from an account manager (from the US Florida office) introducing herself, informing me about other products, to let her know if there was anything she could help me with and a inquiring my phone number. I provided my contact info and I politely told her that I just wanted my US access account and I'm waiting for the activation code and a call back to verify if I was approved for the US Platinum Visa Rewards Card (by the way, when you are talking to an US RBC bank employee you don't have to refer to your accounts as "US", it probably seemed pretty funny to that I kept calling it US access checking, US Platinum Visa Rewards, but I digress). She immediately called me, very pleasant on the phone and she was concerned that I hadn't been informed that I had been approved for my Visa card with the limit I requested.

So at this point (approximate two weeks ago) I had two debt cards, 2 RBC CDN accounts, 1 RBC US checking account and approval for the Visa card.

To do list was:
1. Get $700 US into the Access checking account so I didn't get charged a fee
2. Get the activation number so I could setup linking
3. Receive Platinum Visa Rewards card and activate it.

Of course, over all this time I kept getting a little anxious about not having the $700 in the Access account yet. After a couple more days of checking I received the Visa card, which I was quickly able to activate automatically (No CSR involvement). I figured since the Visa card had arrived I had better check the online access to the US access checking account. Logged in an got an error, no account associated with this log in (or something along that lines) message. I panicked a little, as I was a little concerned about a $3.50 fee I didn't expect to not see the account. Fortunately, I kept the contact info for the account manager from RBC US Florida. I sent her a quick email and see immediately responded that she had reactivated my account and suggested I move the $700 in sooner rather then later. The next day I went to a local RBC branch and transferred deposited $700 US into my CDN US$ High interest savings account and that evening called RBC (since the US account manager could not move the funds for me) and was quickly connected to a RBC CSR who moved the funds over from the CDN US$ account to the US access checking account.

Two days later I received the activation number for the US access checking account I logged in activated the account. Then I logged into my CDN RBC online access account and linked the US Access checking account to it.

So about 6 weeks end-to-end I now have the following:
RBC U.S. High Interest eSavings - Canadian - $0US
RBC Day to Day Savings - Canadian - $0CDN
Access Checking account - US - $700.10US
Platinum Visa Rewards - $xxxxx.xxUS limit

I have not been charged any fees on any of these accounts to-date. Nor have I spent any money setting up these accounts and the $700.10US cost me $730CDN due to the ridiculous collapse of the $US at the exact wrong time. :cry:

DISCLAIMER - As of Feb 2012 RBC Bank US will now be charging a $2.95 monthly maintenance fee on their US checking account. Therefore, this option is no longer 100% free but is still available for those who don't mind paying the maintenance fee.

Feel free to ask any questions. - I didn't proof it so please ignore grammatical and spelling issues.

[angel_wing0]

so are u planning to move into the us free checking account or just stay in rbc access?

[Tharnax]

so are u planning to move into the us free checking account or just stay in rbc access?

Not in the near future. Based on current interest rates, it isn't costing me much to have a $700 balance in the US Access account (less then $1 per month). If/when rates increase to the point where it is worth while to store the money in the CDN US$ High interest savings account and transfer when necessary then I will reconsider. In the meantime, I'll keep the balance at $700 and if/when exchange rates climb I'll transfer more funds in the US$ High interest savings account and move it as needed to pay off all the US purchases. :cheesygri

[wazabi]

If you have TD bank, and you have 5k in your checking a/c, you can open a us account free .. and free us CC.

[angel_wing0]

If you have TD bank, and you have 5k in your checking a/c, you can open a us account free .. and free us CC.

The borderless is an usd account, not an US bank account. Big difference.

[emoci]

RBC U.S. High Interest eSavings - Canadian - $0US
RBC Day to Day Savings - Canadian - $0CDN
Access Checking account - US - $700.10US
Platinum Visa Rewards - $xxxxx.xxUS limit


Curiosity question, have you had a chance to try paying your US Based VISA yet.... do you have the option of doing this from the RBC Access USA side online?

[cool canuck]

Not in the near future. Based on current interest rates, it isn't costing me much to have a $700 balance in the US Access account (less then $1 per month). If/when rates increase to the point where it is worth while to store the money in the CDN US$ High interest savings account and transfer when necessary then I will reconsider. In the meantime, I'll keep the balance at $700 and if/when exchange rates climb I'll transfer more funds in the US$ High interest savings account and move it as needed to pay off all the US purchases. :cheesygri

I'm earning 0.50% at Ingdirect, you could get 0.75% at ICICI Bank which is the highest I've found, so all of $0.44 per month in foregone interest is a much better deal than the $65 I'm paying for the RBC USD Visa.

[peridot]

Not in the near future. Based on current interest rates, it isn't costing me much to have a $700 balance in the US Access account (less then $1 per month). If/when rates increase to the point where it is worth while to store the money in the CDN US$ High interest savings account and transfer when necessary then I will reconsider. In the meantime, I'll keep the balance at $700 and if/when exchange rates climb I'll transfer more funds in the US$ High interest savings account and move it as needed to pay off all the US purchases. :cheesygri

Did you open the US high interest account for the express purpose you mentioned? After reading your previous post, I wondered why you opened 3 accounts and questioned whether I should be doing the same. During my appointment today, I was told that it is not possible for Canadians to transfer money from one US account to another US account. I ended following the the manger's advice and opened a Day to Day Savings CDN account as well as a US Access account. Thanks to RFD, it was rather comical to find myself asking her questions that puzzled her enough that she had to look up that information ;)

[hobgoblins]

I don't think this question has been asked here, so I'm going to go for it.

I want to open an Access USA account because we bought a fair bit of American money when the dollar was good. I was not with RBC yet and was planning on getting a USD credit card so that I could use it to book my May trip to Florida (and future trips, I run at least 4000 USD through on my Canadian credit card for these trips, so it's worth it to be able to dip into my American money when the dollar falls, and it has)

We have about 3500k for this trip, the dollar is terrible, so there is no chance that we want to exchange it to CAD, and then back to USD to get it into an Access USA account. They've made it sound like the only way from Canada to deposit money into the Access USA account is to exchange it from CAD to USD through my account. But I have the cash now. They said I can do a wire transfer, but doesn't that still take a percentage of the money?

Are there any alternatives I can pursue? I have a Canadian USD account at TD and they allow me to deposit my funds in USD at the Canadian bank. Should I be able to pay an Accesss USA credit card with a TD Canadian USD account without having to deal with exchange issues?

And finally, if the above works, should I be able to open my American credit card through Access USA, cancel my Access USA account once the credit card is active and still have access to the credit card?

[IK1001]

I don't think this question has been asked here, so I'm going to go for it.

I want to open an Access USA account because we bought a fair bit of American money when the dollar was good. I was not with RBC yet and was planning on getting a USD credit card so that I could use it to book my May trip to Florida (and future trips, I run at least 4000 USD through on my Canadian credit card for these trips, so it's worth it to be able to dip into my American money when the dollar falls, and it has)

We have about 3500k for this trip, the dollar is terrible, so there is no chance that we want to exchange it to CAD, and then back to USD to get it into an Access USA account. They've made it sound like the only way from Canada to deposit money into the Access USA account is to exchange it from CAD to USD through my account. But I have the cash now. They said I can do a wire transfer, but doesn't that still take a percentage of the money?

Are there any alternatives I can pursue? I have a Canadian USD account at TD and they allow me to deposit my funds in USD at the Canadian bank. Should I be able to pay an Accesss USA credit card with a TD Canadian USD account without having to deal with exchange issues?

And finally, if the above works, should I be able to open my American credit card through Access USA, cancel my Access USA account once the credit card is active and still have access to the credit card?

Easiest way to pay the RBC USA Visa:

1. Open RBC Royal Bank USD Esavings
2. Open RBC USA Access Account and link with RBC Royal Bank USD Esavings
3. Open RBC USA Visa
4. Transfer USD to RBC Royal Bank USD Esavings by depositing cash or cheque from TDCT
5. Transfer USD from RBC Royal Bank USD Esavings to RBC USA Access Account (instant)
6. Pay RBC USA Visa from RBC USA Access Account

As of now (before the sale to PNC), you would likely still have access to the credit card even after you close the Access Account. PNC is supposed to take over the credit cards for those who are not "transborder customers", so it is not clear what would happen if you are Canadian with a Canadian address but not a "transborder customer". The Access Account is the easiest way for a Canadian to pay off the RBC USA Visa though.

[Tharnax]

Curiosity question, have you had a chance to try paying your US Based VISA yet.... do you have the option of doing this from the RBC Access USA side online?

Hi Emoci, I haven't tried paying the VISA from the RBC Access USA, however, I don't see it as an issue because when I log into US Access account online under account balances I have both the balance of the Access checking account and VISA card showing on the same account screen. Also, on the right hand side I have the option of "Pay Bills" or "Transfer Funds". If I select transfer funds I have the option of moving money from the US access to the Visa card.

Likely when I it comes to paying off the balance my funds flow will be to convert CDN$ to US$ at best rate possible, deposit US$ at RBC bank directly into US High interest savings account, then log into my RBC Canada and move the funds between US High Interest savings account and US Access checking account. Then I'll log into RBC US and transfer the funds from the Access account to the Visa. Seems like a lot of steps but other then the funds conversion/deposit it's not difficult.

Update: RBC actually has a single sign-on in place, so once you've link your US account to your CDN log in you have the ability to do the entire transfer of funds and pay off the US CC from the one site. Once the accounts are linked, from the Canadian online site, you can click on Bill payments and funds transfers, then click on "Transfer Funds to RBC Bank (USA)" - (Left side of screen) and transfer the funds. Then you click on "RBC (USA) Bank Accounts" on the left hand side and you are immediately taking to your RBCBank.com with access to your Access checking and Platinum Visa rewards account.

[Tharnax]

If you have TD bank, and you have 5k in your checking a/c, you can open a us account free .. and free us CC.

Correct, as angle_wing0 stated,
The borderless is an usd account, not an US bank account. Big difference. the TD US credit card is still a Canadian based US$ credit card. Even though merchants are "required" to accept all Visa/MC cards, if the merchant accepts Visa/MC as a form of payment, some with still refuse which means you either have to "fight" with them or don't shop there. However, some will let use use a Canadian bank issued US$ credit card but will charge an additional "processing fee" to your purchase, which is how they get around the the CC companies acceptance requirements.

With the RBC Bank Visa Platinum Rewards card it is 100% based in the US, which means any US merchant that accepts Visa will accept this card as if you were an American living in the US.

Very BIG difference

[Tharnax]

I'm earning 0.50% at Ingdirect, you could get 0.75% at ICICI Bank which is the highest I've found, so all of $0.44 per month in foregone interest is a much better deal than the $65 I'm paying for the RBC USD Visa.

Agreed!!!!! It's an exciting 0.15% for the US$ RBC High-interest savings account. :lol: All forgo the >$10 in interest over a 12 month period to save myself $42 in yearly minimum balance fees.

[Tharnax]

Did you open the US high interest account for the express purpose you mentioned? After reading your previous post, I wondered why you opened 3 accounts and questioned whether I should be doing the same. During my appointment today, I was told that it is not possible for Canadians to transfer money from one US account to another US account. I ended following the the manger's advice and opened a Day to Day Savings CDN account as well as a US Access account. Thanks to RFD, it was rather comical to find myself asking her questions that puzzled her enough that she had to look up that information ;)

The Account manager's advice where technically isn't wrong, it isn't great either. Every time you want to move my from RBC Canada to RBC US, you will have to move the funds from the CDN Day-to-Day Savings account directly to the US Access checking account. Which means RBC will be doing the foreign exchange for you at "their" rate. If you have a US$ High interest savings account, you can convert your CDN funds to US$ at the best exchange rate possible and transfer the US$ into that account. Then you can transfer the funds from RBC Canada to RBC US in US$ so no foreign exchange fees from RBC.

I have a family member in the financial services sector who gets spot rate on all foreign exchange so I give him CDN$, he changes it to US$ and can transfer it directly to my US$ High Interest savings account, so I pay no foreign exchange fees.

I would recommend you setup a US$ High Interest savings account it's no fee. I don't know why you were told incorrect information about transferring US$ from RBC Canada to RBC US, I can certainly do it and have already done so.

[Tharnax]

I don't think this question has been asked here, so I'm going to go for it.

I want to open an Access USA account because we bought a fair bit of American money when the dollar was good. I was not with RBC yet and was planning on getting a USD credit card so that I could use it to book my May trip to Florida (and future trips, I run at least 4000 USD through on my Canadian credit card for these trips, so it's worth it to be able to dip into my American money when the dollar falls, and it has)

We have about 3500k for this trip, the dollar is terrible, so there is no chance that we want to exchange it to CAD, and then back to USD to get it into an Access USA account. They've made it sound like the only way from Canada to deposit money into the Access USA account is to exchange it from CAD to USD through my account. But I have the cash now. They said I can do a wire transfer, but doesn't that still take a percentage of the money?

Are there any alternatives I can pursue? I have a Canadian USD account at TD and they allow me to deposit my funds in USD at the Canadian bank. Should I be able to pay an Accesss USA credit card with a TD Canadian USD account without having to deal with exchange issues?

And finally, if the above works, should I be able to open my American credit card through Access USA, cancel my Access USA account once the credit card is active and still have access to the credit card?

DISCLAIMER - RBC Bank US as of Feb 2012 is now charging $2.95 for their checking account. Canadian accounts and Visa remain free but in order to make this work you need the US checking account which now has a MONTHLY FEE!!!!!

Let me see if I have this straight:
1. You have $3500US currently in a TD USD account
2. You don't have any accounts currently with RBC
4. You want to move the entire amount in US to a US Access checking account
3. You want a US bank based US$ CC

Here is my suggestion based on my experience to-date.
1. Go to an RBC bank branch, ask to speak with an account manager (Go when you don't have to be somewhere else this will take time and patients)
2. Tell the account manager:
a. You don't currently have an account at RBC
b. You want to open their no-fee US$ High Interest Savings account
c. You want to open a US Access checking account
3. Provide all relevant information to account manager
4. Account manager may have some difficulties at first, as it isn't something they do everyday - have patients.
5. You should receive a temp debt card for accessing the US$ High interest savings account (you maybe asked if you want a CDN Day-to-Day no-fee savings account - you can choose to open this or not it doesn't matter!
6. Take a business card of the account manager
7. Ensure account manager has your correct email address, they will use this to email you your Access checking account number.
8. There is no need to deposit anything or order anything (such as checks) at this point.
9. Go home, log in online and ensure you have full access to your CDN US$ High Interest savings account.
10. Call TD bank (your branch) and tell then you want to withdraw the $3500 US$ in US currency. (Call ahead means no issues for lack of cash when you pick it up)
11. Pick up the cash at TD bank and go directly to any RBC Bank.
12. Go to any Teller, tell them you want to deposit $3500US into your US$ High Interest savings account
13. Use your temporary debt card to validate your account, deposit funds.
14. Wait.... wait.... wait for the US Access debt card to come in the mail. (Make sure you have received your US Access checking account number from your account manager by the time the debt card arrives.
15. Yeah!!!! US access debt card arrives. Again when you have lots of time, call the number stuck on the front of the card. It will ask you to active online using your SIN number. By-pass by hitting 0 and wait for a CSR.
16. When CSR answers, tell them you want to active your debt card. They will go through security questions with you but they will first ask you for the US access checking account number. Make sure you have it.
17. Once debt card is setup, ensure you go through the process of setting up Online access if they don't automatically go through it with you.
18. Before you hang up, ask to apply for the Platinum Visa Rewards (no-fee) card.
19. Spend another 10 minutes+ going through more security questions, financial details, etc.
20. Once application has been confirmed, before you hang up you can do one more thing.
21. Transfer at least $700 from your US$ High Interest savings account to your US Access checking account.
22. Hang up and immediately log into your Access Checking account and ensure you see the money you just transferred. At this point it is look, no touch!
21. Wait.... wait..... wait.... some more for two things.
a. The US access online validation code
b. A call to inform you of your CC application approval
22. Once you get the US access online validation code, log into your account, enter the validation code and setup security questions.
23. You will now have full access to your Access checking account.
24. Log out and log into your CDN RBC US$ High Interest savings account
25. Link your Access account to your CDN US$ account.
26. Transfer funds at your leisure to your access account.
26.5. Somewhere between 21 and 26, you will get confirmation of your Visa application (if approved go to step 27).
27. CC has been approved, now wait.... wait..... wait some more for it to arrive.
28. CC arrives by mail, active online you now have everything you need for your May Florida vacation!
29. Finally, go to TD and close the US$ account, you won't need it anymore. ;)

Questions?

[angel_wing0]

Are there any alternatives I can pursue? I have a Canadian USD account at TD and they allow me to deposit my funds in USD at the Canadian bank. Should I be able to pay an Accesss USA credit card with a TD Canadian USD account without having to deal with exchange issues?

if u have borderless u can just transfer thru cheque, but of course, there likely will be a holding period for it on the rbc side.

[cool canuck]

Can you deposit USD$ into the ATM into your Cdn based USD account, or do you have to go to the teller?
Also, is there a full list of vendors in the bill payment option - ie. Target, Saks, Gap, Macy's credit cards? I know I was able to open a US store credit card (despite being a Canadian) in the past but bill payment was a hassle - this might be an additional advantage of the US Access account.

[cool canuck]

Agreed!!!!! It's an exciting 0.15% for the US$ RBC High-interest savings account. :lol: All forgo the >$10 in interest over a 12 month period to save myself $42 in yearly minimum balance fees.

Actually a whopping $1.05 in interest for the entire year.

[Jonavin]

Just got my debit card and asked them to apply for the Visa card.

One thing that's good about having a US debit visa card (or a any US based credit/debit) card is that you can add it to Amazon as your payment card and get those free Amazon AppStore apps. It would never work for me until I added this.

[Tharnax]

Can you deposit USD$ into the ATM into your Cdn based USD account, or do you have to go to the teller?

I don't think so, but I don't know the answer to this for sure. You would think if you chose to deposit to your US$ account it would assume you were depositing US dollars. Haven't tried, didn't ask. Good question.


Also, is there a full list of vendors in the bill payment option - ie. Target, Saks, Gap, Macy's credit cards? I know I was able to open a US store credit card (despite being a Canadian) in the past but bill payment was a hassle - this might be an additional advantage of the US Access account.

Yes, full list of vendors on the payment option, cannot attach a screen shot so here is a list under credit card options for bill payees:
Ann Taylor
Bank of America
Bealls
Bel Credit Card
Bloomingdale's
Dillard's Credit
Discover Card
JCPenney Rewards
Kohl's
Macy's
Saks Fifth Avenue
Target
Victoras Secret

[angel_wing0]

i m convinced, going to set up an appointment with rbc tmr xD

[hobgoblins]

Let me see if I have this straight:
1. You have $3500US currently in a TD USD account
2. You don't have any accounts currently with RBC
4. You want to move the entire amount in US to a US Access checking account
3. You want a US bank based US$ CC

Here is my suggestion based on my experience to-date.
1. Go to an RBC bank branch, ask to speak with an account manager (Go when you don't have to be somewhere else this will take time and patients)
2. Tell the account manager:
a. You don't currently have an account at RBC
b. You want to open their no-fee US$ High Interest Savings account
c. You want to open a US Access checking account
3. Provide all relevant information to account manager
4. Account manager may have some difficulties at first, as it isn't something they do everyday - have patients.
5. You should receive a temp debt card for accessing the US$ High interest savings account (you maybe asked if you want a CDN Day-to-Day no-fee savings account - you can choose to open this or not it doesn't matter!
6. Take a business card of the account manager
7. Ensure account manager has your correct email address, they will use this to email you your Access checking account number.
8. There is no need to deposit anything or order anything (such as checks) at this point.
9. Go home, log in online and ensure you have full access to your CDN US$ High Interest savings account.
10. Call TD bank (your branch) and tell then you want to withdraw the $3500 US$ in US currency. (Call ahead means no issues for lack of cash when you pick it up)
11. Pick up the cash at TD bank and go directly to any RBC Bank.
12. Go to any Teller, tell them you want to deposit $3500US into your US$ High Interest savings account
13. Use your temporary debt card to validate your account, deposit funds.
14. Wait.... wait.... wait for the US Access debt card to come in the mail. (Make sure you have received your US Access checking account number from your account manager by the time the debt card arrives.
15. Yeah!!!! US access debt card arrives. Again when you have lots of time, call the number stuck on the front of the card. It will ask you to active online using your SIN number. By-pass by hitting 0 and wait for a CSR.
16. When CSR answers, tell them you want to active your debt card. They will go through security questions with you but they will first ask you for the US access checking account number. Make sure you have it.
17. Once debt card is setup, ensure you go through the process of setting up Online access if they don't automatically go through it with you.
18. Before you hang up, ask to apply for the Platinum Visa Rewards (no-fee) card.
19. Spend another 10 minutes+ going through more security questions, financial details, etc.
20. Once application has been confirmed, before you hang up you can do one more thing.
21. Transfer at least $700 from your US$ High Interest savings account to your US Access checking account.
22. Hang up and immediately log into your Access Checking account and ensure you see the money you just transferred. At this point it is look, no touch!
21. Wait.... wait..... wait.... some more for two things.
a. The US access online validation code
b. A call to inform you of your CC application approval
22. Once you get the US access online validation code, log into your account, enter the validation code and setup security questions.
23. You will now have full access to your Access checking account.
24. Log out and log into your CDN RBC US$ High Interest savings account
25. Link your Access account to your CDN US$ account.
26. Transfer funds at your leisure to your access account.
26.5. Somewhere between 21 and 26, you will get confirmation of your Visa application (if approved go to step 27).
27. CC has been approved, now wait.... wait..... wait some more for it to arrive.
28. CC arrives by mail, active online you now have everything you need for your May Florida vacation!
29. Finally, go to TD and close the US$ account, you won't need it anymore. ;)

Questions?

I didn't have an account at RBC at the time that I exchanged the money (hence having it in cash instead of setting up Access USA right then and there and exchanging my money without headaches) but I have an account with them now (and like them much better than TD). Thank you for the extensive advice! I'll get a start on it this week.

Edit to add: I have booked my appointment for tomorrow, but have now looked at their US website and they don't appear to have a free savings account unless you're under 18 or keep 300$ in their at a time. Is that the one you meant?

[Tharnax]

Edit to add: I have booked my appointment for tomorrow, but have now looked at their US website and they don't appear to have a free savings account unless you're under 18 or keep 300$ in their at a time. Is that the one you meant?

No, the only account you need besides the US Access checking account is the CDN US$ High-interest savings account (http://www.rbcroyalbank.com/products/deposits/us-e-savings.html). This account allows you to go to any CDN RBC bank branch (and possibly ATM - still to be confirmed) and deposit US dollars, US$ cheques, US$ money orders, etc on the Canadian side of the boarder in US$ to avoid an exchange fees. Once the US$s are in your account, you can then transfer them online to the US access checking account. From the US access checking account, you can then pay off your (US bank based) Platinum Visa Rewards card.

The CDN US$ High Interest savings (http://www.rbcroyalbank.com/products/deposits/us-e-savings.html) account has no fees for deposits or online transfers to other RBC bank accounts in your name (including the Access checking account with RBC Bank USA).

[Tharnax]

i m convinced, going to set up an appointment with rbc tmr xD

Very smart decision! My only additional advice is this process takes time, end-to-end for me was at least 6 weeks. But it's definitely worth it in the end if you do a lot of cross boarder shopping or want to take advantage of US online deals from the many companies that won't take CDN based CCs.

[cool canuck]

Very smart decision! My only additional advice is this process takes time, end-to-end for me was at least 6 weeks. But it's definitely worth it in the end if you do a lot of cross boarder shopping or want to take advantage of US online deals from the many companies that won't take CDN based CCs.

Thanks Tharnax, I started the application process and was told a few weeks for the debit card and pin to be mailed. The CSR tried to apply for the credit card but I have to wait for the debit card first. Looking forward to saving 25% on everything in the US!

[Jonavin]

I was reading the RBC Bank USA deal with PNC. So they will continue servicing Canadians with their Georgia based operation, still named RBC Bank. So the only real difference for people is that you no longer have a real bank in the US to do transactions in unless you are part of their private banking or wealth management services. For most of us it won't matter.

One question that's not clear from the FAQ is that the current account and credit card numbers will be changing, and current customers will be getting info on the transition in February. How about those of us who just signed up? Are our accounts already based out of RBC Bank Georgia?

[Tharnax]

One question that's not clear from the FAQ is that the current account and credit card numbers will be changing, and current customers will be getting info on the transition in February. How about those of us who just signed up? Are our accounts already based out of RBC Bank Georgia?

Don't know the answer to this one. I never bothered to ask where are accounts are based. For my situation, I'll likely never need to visit an actual bank branch while in the US. However, any CSR has contacted me out of Florida so RBC must have some office space there. Is there a "need" that I might not be aware of to know which state your account is based out of?

[angel_wing0]

So the only real difference for people is that you no longer have a real bank in the US to do transactions in unless you are part of their private banking or wealth management services. For most of us it won't matter.?

Yip, but according to RBC, there will actually be more atm access than before. I hope they can be accessed free or have those charges refunded.

[Tharnax]

Yes, even better with this RBC setup you have the best of every option. Hold US$ in the US high interest savings account, so you can pull out cash at your local RBC bank in US$ before you go on your trip, have a US$ (US based) debit card which you can use at most retail locations in the US and a US based Visa card which will be accepted anywhere in the US where Visa is accepted.

On the cash front, if you actually need more cash on your trip many grocery stores allow you to get cash back on top of your grocery purchase for no fee, so you could go in buy a pop pay with your US debit card and ask for $100 in cash. The "need" to go into a physical RBC bank branch or even an ATM in the US is slim to none. Most times the reason you go to an ATM in the US today is likely because the retailer won't take your CDN based debit card so you have to find an ATM that will take your CDN based debit card in order to withdraw finds. This is no longer an issue with your Access checking account, debit and CC card.

[angel_wing0]

On the cash front, if you actually need more cash on your trip many grocery stores allow you to get cash back on top of your grocery purchase for no fee, so you could go in buy a pop pay with your US debit card and ask for $100 in cash. The "need" to go into a physical RBC bank branch or even an ATM in the US is slim to none. Most times the reason you go to an ATM in the US today is likely because the retailer won't take your CDN based debit card so you have to find an ATM that will take your CDN based debit card in order to withdraw finds. This is no longer an issue with your Access checking account, debit and CC card.

well the atm access is mainly for merchants that only take cash...but the grocery store method is certainly interesting :D

[Jonavin]

Thanks for the tip on the cash back. I do his all the time in Canada with my PCF card. I didn't know you could do this with the Visa Debit card in the US as well.

[Jonavin]

Yip, but according to RBC, there will actually be more atm access than before. I hope they can be accessed free or have those charges refunded.

I think they meant they will just refund any foreign ATM fees. From what I can tell it looks like they are selling all their branches except the ones in Georgia. The Georgia branches used to be Georgia State Bank that they bought a few years ago.

[koleso]

Are there any products that Canadians can sign up for to collect miles?

[Tharnax]

well the atm access is mainly for merchants that only take cash...but the grocery store method is certainly interesting :D

I've found, well in Canada anyway, that a lot of places not just grocery stores will do the cash back option if you just ask ahead of time. On Debt transactions, as far as I'm aware, are both the same in the US and Canada, where the merchant pays a lower fee on debt cards, so it doesn't matter as much if you use your debt card for a $5 purchase or a $105 purchase the fee to the merchant is still basically the same. Unlike CC where the fee is a percentage of the total amount, so the cost would be higher for a $105 transaction over a $5 transaction.


Thanks for the tip on the cash back. I do his all the time in Canada with my PCF card. I didn't know you could do this with the Visa Debit card in the US as well.

I haven't personally done it yet but I've read nothing to state this couldn't be done.


Are there any products that Canadians can sign up for to collect miles?

Nope, Air Miles, Aeroplan, etc are all for Canadian based companies. There maybe some reward miles for US cards but would you really want them. The Platinum Rewards Visa card does offer points for us to purchase stuff from RBC Bank USA site. I really haven't gone through it to check it out though. Really the savings I get on every purchase in the US far outweighs any rewards miles I might have gotten by buying the same thing with my CDN CC in Canada.

[angel_wing0]

I think they meant they will just refund any foreign ATM fees. From what I can tell it looks like they are selling all their branches except the ones in Georgia. The Georgia branches used to be Georgia State Bank that they bought a few years ago.

yip thats what i think too, just how many per month will be the ossie here.

[Jonavin]

Are there any products that Canadians can sign up for to collect miles?

The RBC Bank (USA) Platinum Visa gives you RBC Rewards. That's about the only USD card I know you can get as a Canadian that has some sort of rewards. You get 1 point for every dollar, plus 3,000 sign up bonus.

[angel_wing0]

The RBC Bank (USA) Platinum Visa gives you RBC Rewards. That's about the only USD card I know you can get as a Canadian that has some sort of rewards. You get 1 point for every dollar, plus 3,000 sign up bonus.

it goes to the same rbc rewards account right? I hope there is no US rbc rewards and CAN rbc rewards else that would suck...

[Tharnax]

it goes to the same rbc rewards account right? I hope there is no US rbc rewards and CAN rbc rewards else that would suck...

It's hard to say if they would stack. Fortunately, my only rewards card from RBC is the US Platinum Visa rewards card so I have no other RBC rewards cards to stack. There are lots of ways to redeem so even if I have to redeem them for only use in the US, there are still plenty of options and the savings on whatever I purchase in the US will make them more worth while anyway. Also, there doesn't seem to be anything that would suggest you can't book travel using your Platinum visa rewards card and then redeem your points to pay for them, which seems to be the way to use the points according to the RBC rewards (https://www.rbcbankusaredemption.com/pages/travel/travel.aspx) site.

[angel_wing0]

It's hard to say if they would stack. Fortunately, my only rewards card from RBC is the US Platinum Visa rewards card so I have no other RBC rewards cards to stack. There are lots of ways to redeem so even if I have to redeem them for only use in the US, there are still plenty of options and the savings on whatever I purchase in the US will make them more worth while anyway. Also, there doesn't seem to be anything that would suggest you can't book travel using your Platinum visa rewards card and then redeem your points to pay for them, which seems to be the way to use the points according to the RBC rewards (https://www.rbcbankusaredemption.com/pages/travel/travel.aspx) site.

i'll probably go in and confirm tmr during my appointment. Stupid rbc didnt book me to the right person last week although i insist for one who speaks cantonese *facepalm* ...wasted my work lunch just to rebook !@$#&($<>?

[komodor]

Thanks for the tip on the cash back. I do his all the time in Canada with my PCF card. I didn't know you could do this with the Visa Debit card in the US as well.

You can also get a cashback in the US with your Desjardins debit card provided the merchant is part of the NYCE network (plenty of them are (http://www.nyce.net/consumers/retailer_list/index.htm))

[mxf450]

Thanks Tharnax, you should call this post US Banking for Dummies


Let me see if I have this straight:
1. You have $3500US currently in a TD USD account
2. You don't have any accounts currently wianking th RBC
4. You want to move the entire amount in US to a US Access checking account
3. You want a US bank based US$ CC

Here is my suggestion based on my experience to-date.
1. Go to an RBC bank branch, ask to speak with an account manager (Go when you don't have to be somewhere else this will take time and patients)
2. Tell the account manager:
a. You don't currently have an account at RBC
b. You want to open their no-fee US$ High Interest Savings account
c. You want to open a US Access checking account
3. Provide all relevant information to account manager
4. Account manager may have some difficulties at first, as it isn't something they do everyday - have patients.
5. You should receive a temp debt card for accessing the US$ High interest savings account (you maybe asked if you want a CDN Day-to-Day no-fee savings account - you can choose to open this or not it doesn't matter!
6. Take a business card of the account manager
7. Ensure account manager has your correct email address, they will use this to email you your Access checking account number.
8. There is no need to deposit anything or order anything (such as checks) at this point.
9. Go home, log in online and ensure you have full access to your CDN US$ High Interest savings account.
10. Call TD bank (your branch) and tell then you want to withdraw the $3500 US$ in US currency. (Call ahead means no issues for lack of cash when you pick it up)
11. Pick up the cash at TD bank and go directly to any RBC Bank.
12. Go to any Teller, tell them you want to deposit $3500US into your US$ High Interest savings account
13. Use your temporary debt card to validate your account, deposit funds.
14. Wait.... wait.... wait for the US Access debt card to come in the mail. (Make sure you have received your US Access checking account number from your account manager by the time the debt card arrives.
15. Yeah!!!! US access debt card arrives. Again when you have lots of time, call the number stuck on the front of the card. It will ask you to active online using your SIN number. By-pass by hitting 0 and wait for a CSR.
16. When CSR answers, tell them you want to active your debt card. They will go through security questions with you but they will first ask you for the US access checking account number. Make sure you have it.
17. Once debt card is setup, ensure you go through the process of setting up Online access if they don't automatically go through it with you.
18. Before you hang up, ask to apply for the Platinum Visa Rewards (no-fee) card.
19. Spend another 10 minutes+ going through more security questions, financial details, etc.
20. Once application has been confirmed, before you hang up you can do one more thing.
21. Transfer at least $700 from your US$ High Interest savings account to your US Access checking account.
22. Hang up and immediately log into your Access Checking account and ensure you see the money you just transferred. At this point it is look, no touch!
21. Wait.... wait..... wait.... some more for two things.
a. The US access online validation code
b. A call to inform you of your CC application approval
22. Once you get the US access online validation code, log into your account, enter the validation code and setup security questions.
23. You will now have full access to your Access checking account.
24. Log out and log into your CDN RBC US$ High Interest savings account
25. Link your Access account to your CDN US$ account.
26. Transfer funds at your leisure to your access account.
26.5. Somewhere between 21 and 26, you will get confirmation of your Visa application (if approved go to step 27).
27. CC has been approved, now wait.... wait..... wait some more for it to arrive.
28. CC arrives by mail, active online you now have everything you need for your May Florida vacation!
29. Finally, go to TD and close the US$ account, you won't need it anymore. ;)

Questions?

[nauru]

Yip, but according to RBC, there will actually be more atm access than before. I hope they can be accessed free or have those charges refunded.

If you are using the Access account, you can already use any ATM in the entire United States and any fees that the ATM owner / competing institution charges will be reimbursed you by RBC. You can do this up to 4 times per month.

The number of RBC branches and ATMs has always been irrelevant; they could have a total of 1 in the whole country and it wouldn't make a difference since ATM transactions are free for Access customers whether at Bank of America in Texas, JP Morgan Chase in New York, or Citibank in Seattle, or some dirty-looking rip-off ATM at the back of a bar in the middle of nowhere. RBC charges no fees, and they pay you back whatever you were charged by the other bank.

[angel_wing0]

so i just opened my bank account, and i was told that i may be charged for shipping the cheques to me. But i thought i see ppl here get them completely free?

What about the secondary usa shipping address? Or is that only for the USD credit card?


If you are using the Access account, you can already use any ATM in the entire United States and any fees that the ATM owner / competing institution charges will be reimbursed you by RBC. You can do this up to 4 times per month.

The number of RBC branches and ATMs has always been irrelevant; they could have a total of 1 in the whole country and it wouldn't make a difference since ATM transactions are free for Access customers whether at Bank of America in Texas, JP Morgan Chase in New York, or Citibank in Seattle, or some dirty-looking rip-off ATM at the back of a bar in the middle of nowhere. RBC charges no fees, and they pay you back whatever you were charged by the other bank.

hmm, it's 2 times a month with the regular access account isnt it?

true, and it's up to 2 (or 4) times a month thou...

Thanks everyone in advance for the help, i m a noob in this US banking stuff :)

[nauru]

so i just opened my bank account, and i was told that i may be charged for shipping the cheques to me. But i thought i see ppl here get them completely free?

What about the secondary usa shipping address? Or is that only for the USD credit card?



hmm, it's 2 times a month with the regular access account isnt it?

true, and it's up to 2 (or 4) times a month thou...

Thanks everyone in advance for the help, i m a noob in this US banking stuff :)

I've only done the secondary usa shipping address for the credit card, never tried doing it with the debit card so I don't know the answer to that question.

As for ATM transactions you are right, they reimburse competitors' ATM fees up to 2 times per month. It used to be up to 4 per month but that's been changed, my mistake.

[angel_wing0]

I've only done the secondary usa shipping address for the credit card, never tried doing it with the debit card so I don't know the answer to that question.

As for ATM transactions you are right, they reimburse competitors' ATM fees up to 2 times per month. It used to be up to 4 per month but that's been changed, my mistake.

thanks, what about the cheques? were u charged for shipping?

oh that sucks thou, so in the future we might have to start paying for every one of them --* oh btw, answer my pm pls, thanks~

[Jonavin]

The cheques are free if shipped to a US address but they cost money to ship to Canada. I'm still waiting for my access code to link my accounts.

Does anyone know if you can change the PIN on your RBC Access USA card at Royal Bank ATMs?

[angel_wing0]

The cheques are free if shipped to a US address but they cost money to ship to Canada. I'm still waiting for my access code to link my accounts.

Does anyone know if you can change the PIN on your RBC Access USA card at Royal Bank ATMs?

but i m certain someone said they got refunded the shipping charges...

my gut feeling would be no.

[Tharnax]

so i just opened my bank account, and i was told that i may be charged for shipping the cheques to me. But i thought i see ppl here get them completely free?

What about the secondary usa shipping address? Or is that only for the USD credit card?


I didn't order cheques, although I was asked if I would like to but there was no mention of a fee. Based on another comment, if/when I decide to order cheques I may just get them sent to my US billing address before heading down to pick up some US goods.

As far as I'm aware the secondary USA shipping address is only for the Platinum Visa rewards card.

BTW, I did my first "purchase" with the Platinum Visa card since at a site (provantage dot com), which is one of those sites that doesn't seem to want business from international customers or they want to charge a "fee" to use an international card. Anyway, made the purchase using my CDN billing address and US shipping address. Order was rejected because they won't ship to a different address then the billing address "for security purposes". So I setup the US billing address on the card but it is a "secondary" billing address and not the "primary" billing address. Placed the same order using the same US address for both billing and shipping. Order rejected as the billing address I provided doesn't match the address of the credit card. So it seems, for some reason, this company wants to match exactly against the primary billing address. So I have to call RBC today and change the US billing address to primary address in order to make the purchase.

The reason for the story is it seems even US based Visa cards will get rejected. I think the next step is Paypal, which will likely allow me to by-pass the risk on behalf of the merchant and place it on Paypal, so merchants will no longer care about the address discrepancy. Work in progress!!!! :facepalm:

[Tharnax]

I'm still waiting for my access code to link my accounts.

It takes a while!!!!


Does anyone know if you can change the PIN on your RBC Access USA card at Royal Bank ATMs?

I'm not aware of it and haven't tried. You could try at a branch. You also get a PIN for your Platinum Visa card as well, so if anyone finds out if this is possible to change in Canada then if you've applied for the Visa card you might want to wait until you have received it as well to do both at once.

[Tharnax]

BTW, I did my first "purchase" with the Platinum Visa card since at a site (provantage dot com), which is one of those sites that doesn't seem to want business from international customers or they want to charge a "fee" to use an international card. Anyway, made the purchase using my CDN billing address and US shipping address. Order was rejected because they won't ship to a different address then the billing address "for security purposes". So I setup the US billing address on the card but it is a "secondary" billing address and not the "primary" billing address. Placed the same order using the same US address for both billing and shipping. Order rejected as the billing address I provided doesn't match the address of the credit card. So it seems, for some reason, this company wants to match exactly against the primary billing address. So I have to call RBC today and change the US billing address to primary address in order to make the purchase.

The reason for the story is it seems even US based Visa cards will get rejected. I think the next step is Paypal, which will likely allow me to by-pass the risk on behalf of the merchant and place it on Paypal, so merchants will no longer care about the address discrepancy. Work in progress!!!! :facepalm:

Update to this story, so people don't get the wrong idea about the effectiveness of this process. I contacted the provantage representative who informed me my card was rejected by email and confirmed the billing address was a secondary address on the card and should be accepted. I received an email response from the site that the transaction had now been approved. Therefore, this confirms the card will work because prior to getting the Platinum Visa Rewards card I could not purchase anything from the with a CDN based CC. It didn't matter if it was Visa, MC or American express or even a CDN based US$ cc it would not be accepted. So really, the only stumbling block was my primary address was not the one used to make the purchase due to their own security measures which states they will only ship to the same address as the billing address, once they manually verified the billing address with RBC the transaction was accepted.

[nauru]

Update to this story, so people don't get the wrong idea about the effectiveness of this process. I contacted the provantage representative who informed me my card was rejected by email and confirmed the billing address was a secondary address on the card and should be accepted. I received an email response from the site that the transaction had now been approved. Therefore, this confirms the card will work because prior to getting the Platinum Visa Rewards card I could not purchase anything from the with a CDN based CC. It didn't matter if it was Visa, MC or American express or even a CDN based US$ cc it would not be accepted. So really, the only stumbling block was my primary address was not the one used to make the purchase due to their own security measures which states they will only ship to the same address as the billing address, once they manually verified the billing address with RBC the transaction was accepted.

The 100% solution is to set your primary address as a US address, and secondary address as your Canadian address. RBC lets you choose which address your statements and other mail will be sent to. So you can have no mail ever go to the US address and all the mail go to your Canadian address.

I currently have my RBC USA credit card set up this way and it works as intended without any issues.

[angel_wing0]

my bank rep just told me that rbc us told her that the friend referral program ended on sept 30th. WTF?!

[nauru]

That's really odd, I just talked to RBC USA a couple of days ago about it, and asked for the link to the referral page. Which they gave me...

[angel_wing0]

That's really odd, I just talked to RBC USA a couple of days ago about it, and asked for the link to the referral page. Which they gave me...

yes i can even find the pdf online: http://www.rbcbankusa.com/refer/file-540075.pdf

But my bank rep said this was on the sheet: "RBC Bank reserves the right to end this program at any time without prior notice." I also called RBC Bank and they said it ended...my guess is rbc doesnt want to shell out the $50, cheap eh.

Did you refer anyone recently?

[nauru]

Lame. Guess I need to change my sig...

[angel_wing0]

Lame. Guess I need to change my sig...

its stupid that the page is still up and searchable if the promo ended. Although you can't find the links just by surfing the rbc site but they can be "searched" =p

[angel_wing0]

just got the account # from my rep, that was quick...

[Jonavin]

just got the account # from my rep, that was quick...

Call them to setup your online account so they can start the process to send you the verification code. You don't need the Debit card to do this. I did this last week, got the debit card a few days later (activate card and applied for Visa) and today received my Activation Code to link my US and Canadian accounts.

Now the last step is wait for my Visa card.

[Tharnax]

The 100% solution is to set your primary address as a US address, and secondary address as your Canadian address. RBC lets you choose which address your statements and other mail will be sent to. So you can have no mail ever go to the US address and all the mail go to your Canadian address.

I currently have my RBC USA credit card set up this way and it works as intended without any issues.

Hmmmm...... Good info! That didn't sound like the way the CSR was describing it but then again it was late so I probably misunderstood. Call to RBC USA in my future but that would definitely solve similar issues going forwards. Thanks!

[Tharnax]

just got the account # from my rep, that was quick...

Nice! Another step towards getting everything setup completed!

[Tharnax]

Call them to setup your online account so they can start the process to send you the verification code. You don't need the Debit card to do this. I did this last week, got the debit card a few days later (activate card and applied for Visa) and today received my Activation Code to link my US and Canadian accounts.

Now the last step is wait for my Visa card.

Nice, Jonavin you're well on your way.

That option would certainly speed up the process in regards to the verification code. I didn't have a lot of time to spend on the phone with RBC so I just did everything at once. Either way it's good to get as much done in as few calls as possible.

[Jonavin]

Just did a test transfer from US-Canadian accounts. Everything looks good.

BTW, how do you know if you've been approved for the Visa card and how long does it usually take to receive it?

[Tharnax]

Just did a test transfer from US-Canadian accounts. Everything looks good.

BTW, how do you know if you've been approved for the Visa card and how long does it usually take to receive it?

Great!!!! It is so easy isn't it.

I was supposed to get a call to confirm but instead I got an email from a Account rep from the RBC office in Florida. I just asked her if I was approved for my RBC, she was surprised I wasn't contact but she confirmed I was. Card should up approximately 10 business days after I applied.

[angel_wing0]

Nice! Another step towards getting everything setup completed!

thanks, now just got to wait for the card...

[Jonavin]

Things move quickly with RBC Bank. Just found out they already approved my Visa and sent it out on the same day I applied. Will probably get it end of next week (10 business days).

[angel_wing0]

Call them to setup your online account so they can start the process to send you the verification code. You don't need the Debit card to do this. I did this last week, got the debit card a few days later (activate card and applied for Visa) and today received my Activation Code to link my US and Canadian accounts.

Now the last step is wait for my Visa card.

hey sorry just noticed this, did u call rbc canada or rbc usa for that? thanks~

[Jonavin]

hey sorry just noticed this, did u call rbc canada or rbc usa for that? thanks~

1-877-RBC BANK.

Tell them you want to setup your online account at rbcbankusa.com but it's asking for a SSN. You will need your RBC Access USA account number. After verifying your ID, they will setup a web account for you and also start the process to send you the Activation Code.

You can view your account balance as soon as you setup the online account, but will need to enter the activation code to move money and link the account to your Canadian online site. While you wait for the activation code, you can call them to move the money for you.

[angel_wing0]

1-877-RBC BANK.

Tell them you want to setup your online account at rbcbankusa.com but it's asking for a SSN. You will need your RBC Access USA account number. After verifying your ID, they will setup a web account for you and also start the process to send you the Activation Code.

You can view your account balance as soon as you setup the online account, but will need to enter the activation code to move money and link the account to your Canadian online site. While you wait for the activation code, you can call them to move the money for you.

Did exactly what you just said, thank you~!

[Jonavin]

My new RBC Platinum Visa number and account is already showing in my online account. They actually gave me double the credit limit I asked for.

And for those of you who are credit score freaks. My credit alert tells me RBC USA did a hard pull on the day of my Visa application.

[Sedul]

Sounds like Harris Bank with Questrade to transfer money or RBC Canada + RBC US Account is the way to go for Canadians who don't necessarily have an address down south.

So with this method and getting a Credit Card with these banks, is it possible to take advantage of getting other credit cards from other banks with more reward programs and more bonus sign ups?

What are the credit cards that are good with rewards if any with RBC USA and Harris Bank?

Thanks!

[Jonavin]

Except for deptment stores like Target most US credit cards still need you to have a US address and a SSN to apply. So I don't knw that it's going to help you.

The RBC Platinum Visa isn't too bad for a no fee card. Besides the usual Platinum benefits you get 1 RBC Rewards point or each dollar spent. Also noticed it comes wth free roadside assistance; not sure of what the terms and limitations are.

[angel_wing0]

My new RBC Platinum Visa number and account is already showing in my online account. They actually gave me double the credit limit I asked for.


*thumbs up* cant wait to apply mine!

[atc789]

1-877-RBC BANK.

Tell them you want to setup your online account at rbcbankusa.com but it's asking for a SSN. You will need your RBC Access USA account number. After verifying your ID, they will setup a web account for you and also start the process to send you the Activation Code.

You can view your account balance as soon as you setup the online account, but will need to enter the activation code to move money and link the account to your Canadian online site. While you wait for the activation code, you can call them to move the money for you.

Can I do this if I don't currently have a bank account with RBC? I'm with CIBC.......

[Jonavin]

Can I do this if I don't currently have a bank account with RBC? I'm with CIBC.......


1-877-RBC BANK.

Tell them you want to setup your online account at rbcbankusa.com but it's asking for a SSN. You will need your RBC Access USA account number. After verifying your ID, they will setup a web account for you and also start the process to send you the Activation Code.

You can view your account balance as soon as you setup the online account, but will need to enter the activation code to move money and link the account to your Canadian online site. While you wait for the activation code, you can call them to move the money for you.

No you need an RBC Bank (USA) account.

[angel_wing0]

Can I do this if I don't currently have a bank account with RBC? I'm with CIBC.......

obviously not...

still waiting for my rbc bank debit card btw...and wow they just charged me $7.42 for shipping the cheques. Thats quite alot for just shipping me 50 cheques.

[Jonavin]

Just got my Visa today (less than two weeks from when I applied). It's a good looking card. I couldn't find any mention of the roadside assistance that was listed in the online info. Will have to ask them about this tomorrow when I call to setup a US billing address.

EDIT: just realized the credit card is chip-less. Probably not a big issue for me since I'm using it mostly for online purchases.

[angel_wing0]

EDIT: just realized the credit card is chip-less. Probably a a big issue for me since I'm using it mostly for online purchases.

Why would that be a big issue? Dont think most US CC companies are using chip so yeah.

[Jonavin]

Why would that be a big issue? Dont think most US CC companies are using chip so yeah.

The first "a" should been a "not". Online orders don't care if you have a chip or not.

[angel_wing0]

The first "a" should been a "not". Online orders don't care if you have a chip or not.

icic :razz:

got my debit card...now time to get the visa ^^


btw if u dont mind telling me, how much is your limit?

[Jonavin]

icic :razz:

got my debit card...now time to get the visa ^^


btw if u dont mind telling me, how much is your limit?

I didn't need much. I asked for $3000, they gave me $6000. Hard hit on Equifax (CIBC alert reported it), but none on TransUnion (just pulled report last week).

[angel_wing0]

I didn't need much. I asked for $3000, they gave me $6000. Hard hit on Equifax (CIBC alert reported it), but none on TransUnion (just pulled report last week).

thanks, guess i'll ask around that area as well.

[angel_wing0]

Think i got the card pin, but still waiting for activation code. Argh.

[Jonavin]

Just as I suspected, the roadside assistance is a dud. It's a pay per use $59.99 service with only 5 miles towing. I'll pass.

No issues setting up a US address at all.

[mugs_64]

Okay looked through the thread and didn't find what I wanted to hear.
1.can you open the free RBC usa account without a RBC cdn account
2. can you get cheques for the account. and a what cost.
3. any hidden fees for the account

thanks

[peridot]

Apologies in advance for not updating sooner. Thanks to the individual who PM'd me for the status and reminding me to go back here and update this thread.

Due to having everything now setup - apologies for the very long post.

When I left off, I had went to an RBC account manager and opened three NO FEE accounts:
USD RBC U.S. High Interest eSavings - Canadian - US$
CAD RBC Day to Day Savings - Canadian - CDN$
US Access Checking account - US - US$

I received a temporary debt card with my debt card number and PIN, which I had setup with the personal banking officer.
I was able to log into RBC Canada and access both my Canadian accounts

IMPORTANT!!!! - a few days later I received an email from my Account Manager with my US access account # Keep this somewhere safe it is needed later

Less then a week later I received my real RBC debt card (replace temporary debt card above).

Between 1 & 2 weeks later I received my US Access debt card. I called to activate but they required a SIN to activate the account so I had to wait and speak with a customer service representative (CSR). After a 15 minute wait (approximately 6:30pm on a weekday), I spoke with a CSR and they immediately asked for my US access account number. Of course, I figured it was my debt card number (nope), I figured they were referring to the US$ account in Canada (nope), I had to remember 2 weeks later that I had received my US access account number through email from my Account Manager. And, of course, I had to remember what email address I used to setup the accounts. :facepalm: Anyway, after about 5 minutes of excuses I found it and with the account number and other securities means besides SIN (which I don't have), the CSR used other means, home address, # of RBC accounts, etc (usual stuff) to validate who I was and the CSR activated the debit card.

I asked about online access and told her the purpose for the account. The CSR walked me through the online process, how I access my US access account online and how I link my US access account to my Canadian online accounts. CSR was very helpful and straight forward. I was told I would be sent an access "number" in the mail which I would receive in a couple weeks. (5-10 business days). Until then I could not link the accounts, but I could log in and "view only" the US access account (which of course was boring since it had a $0 balance).

Once I had activated the card, before I hung up with the CSR, I asked if I could apply for a US Platinum Visa Rewards Card. I was informed that I could and it would take 10 minutes to go through the "process". Standard visa application questions were asked as well as what "limit" I would like on the card. I informed the CSR the limit, finalized the application process and completed the card. I hung up the phone and immediately went on the computer to log in and setup access to the US access account so I would remember. Sure enough, I could "view" the $0 balance but I could not link and every time I logged in I had to by-pass the "active" account button because it would be a while before I received the "activation code".

Approximately, 4 business days later, I received an email from an account manager (from the US Florida office) introducing herself, informing me about other products, to let her know if there was anything she could help me with and a inquiring my phone number. I provided my contact info and I politely told her that I just wanted my US access account and I'm waiting for the activation code and a call back to verify if I was approved for the US Platinum Visa Rewards Card (by the way, when you are talking to an US RBC bank employee you don't have to refer to your accounts as "US", it probably seemed pretty funny to that I kept calling it US access checking, US Platinum Visa Rewards, but I digress). She immediately called me, very pleasant on the phone and she was concerned that I hadn't been informed that I had been approved for my Visa card with the limit I requested.

So at this point (approximate two weeks ago) I had two debt cards, 2 RBC CDN accounts, 1 RBC US checking account and approval for the Visa card.

To do list was:
1. Get $700 US into the Access checking account so I didn't get charged a fee
2. Get the activation number so I could setup linking
3. Receive Platinum Visa Rewards card and activate it.

Of course, over all this time I kept getting a little anxious about not having the $700 in the Access account yet. After a couple more days of checking I received the Visa card, which I was quickly able to activate automatically (No CSR involvement). I figured since the Visa card had arrived I had better check the online access to the US access checking account. Logged in an got an error, no account associated with this log in (or something along that lines) message. I panicked a little, as I was a little concerned about a $3.50 fee I didn't expect to not see the account. Fortunately, I kept the contact info for the account manager from RBC US Florida. I sent her a quick email and see immediately responded that she had reactivated my account and suggested I move the $700 in sooner rather then later. The next day I went to a local RBC branch and transferred deposited $700 US into my CDN US$ High interest savings account and that evening called RBC (since the US account manager could not move the funds for me) and was quickly connected to a RBC CSR who moved the funds over from the CDN US$ account to the US access checking account.

Two days later I received the activation number for the US access checking account I logged in activated the account. Then I logged into my CDN RBC online access account and linked the US Access checking account to it.

So about 6 weeks end-to-end I now have the following:
RBC U.S. High Interest eSavings - Canadian - $0US
RBC Day to Day Savings - Canadian - $0CDN
Access Checking account - US - $700.10US
Platinum Visa Rewards - $xxxxx.xxUS limit

I have not been charged any fees on any of these accounts to-date. Nor have I spent any money setting up these accounts and the $700.10US cost me $730CDN due to the ridiculous collapse of the $US at the exact wrong time. :cry:

Feel free to ask any questions. - I didn't proof it so please ignore grammatical and spelling issues.

As per above': I've visited with account manager, have received both the RBC Canadian and US debit card, but have never received an email with my US Access Account #. Should I have? The account manager never mentioned anything about this to my recollection. Secondly, I only opened a Day to Day Savings and an Access Checking account. I am not really understanding why I would need to open a US High Interest Savings account. I've read/been told that it has something to do with dollar conversion savings, but I'm not understanding. Would this last account only be beneficial if you already had some US cash on hand and wanted to deposit it into this type of account in order to avoid the conversion costs? If that's the case, someone like myself who has no US cash does not really need to open this account, do I?

[angel_wing0]

As per above': I've visited with account manager, have received both the RBC Canadian and US debit card, but have never received an email with my US Access Account #. Should I have?

...If that's the case, someone like myself who has no US cash does not really need to open this account, do I?

yes u should...u need it to activate your account when your card comes.

Correct.

[nauru]

Okay looked through the thread and didn't find what I wanted to hear.
1.can you open the free RBC usa account without a RBC cdn account
2. can you get cheques for the account. and a what cost.
3. any hidden fees for the account

thanks

1. In order to open the RBC USA account you need to have an RBC account in Canada. You can open them at the same time if you want, and there is an RBC Canada account available that has no minimum balance and no monthly fee so it really doesn't cost you anything to have it. And after you have the US one, I believe you could close the Canadian one if you wanted to. You will find that having the free Canadian account adds convenience though, since it allows you to access US currency from your US account at any Canadian branch (via free transfers within RBC). So when you want to pick up a bit of US cash before a trip to the US, you can do so at any RBC branch free of charge without paying any exchange rate spread.
2. If you have the RBC embassy account ($700 minimum balance) cheques are free, but you need to pay shipping of around $7.50 per order if you want them shipped to Canada. If you get them sent to a US address it is free. If you have the free checking account (no minimum balance) then it costs about $23 including shipping to Canada for a book of 50 cheques. Subtract $7.50 if you are having them shipped within the US.
3. No hidden fees.

[angel_wing0]

...still waiting for cheque and activation code orz

[cool canuck]

As per above': I've visited with account manager, have received both the RBC Canadian and US debit card, but have never received an email with my US Access Account #. Should I have?

I never got my account number but when I got my debit card the CSR created a temporary login for the online banking at rbcbankusa.com so I could login and get the account number from there. I then needed to read the number to the CSR as it didn't seem like they had the number.

[cool canuck]

1. In order to open the RBC USA account you need to have an RBC account in Canada. You can open them at the same time if you want, and there is an RBC Canada account available that has no minimum balance and no monthly fee so it really doesn't cost you anything to have it. And after you have the US one, I believe you could close the Canadian one if you wanted to. You will find that having the free Canadian account adds convenience though, since it allows you to access US currency from your US account at any Canadian branch (via free transfers within RBC). So when you want to pick up a bit of US cash before a trip to the US, you can do so at any RBC branch free of charge without paying any exchange rate spread.
2. If you have the RBC embassy account ($700 minimum balance) cheques are free, but you need to pay shipping of around $7.50 per order if you want them shipped to Canada. If you get them sent to a US address it is free. If you have the free checking account (no minimum balance) then it costs about $23 including shipping to Canada for a book of 50 cheques. Subtract $7.50 if you are having them shipped within the US.
3. No hidden fees.

I just got my cheques and was charged USD$7.42 - shipped from New Jersey I believe to me in Canada.

[angel_wing0]

I just got my cheques and was charged USD$7.42 - shipped from New Jersey I believe to me in Canada.

yip just got mine too...and got my activation code. Can someone tell me how to transfer funds from rbc to rbc bank? i can only see transfer to "rbc royal bank" from rbc bank...

*edit: nm figured it out, have to do it on the rbc royal bank side*

but damn, i waited 35 minutes for a rep..insane orz

[Jonavin]

I just got my cheques and was charged USD$7.42 - shipped from New Jersey I believe to me in Canada.

I shipped to my US address, no charge.

[angel_wing0]

I shipped to my US address, no charge.

i should have done the same to my friend's place, oh well.

When does the 1-888-738-2456 call center close? trying to call them and cant reach anyone orz

[angel_wing0]

I didn't need much. I asked for $3000, they gave me $6000. Hard hit on Equifax (CIBC alert reported it), but none on TransUnion (just pulled report last week).

i just got approved. Asked for 2k, they gave me $7500. Now just need the card to get here...

[Jonavin]

I think it's been mentioned in this thread (or elsewhere on RFD), but there's a foreign/cross-border charge when you use the RBC USA Platinum Rewards Visa for Canadian based merchants that charge USD. I paid VoIP.ms (based in Quebec) $25 USD and got charged an additional 75 cents fee. I think it's the same when you use it to buy from eBay from Canadians that charge USD.

I guess I'll leave the card for truly US charges and not just for any USD charges.

On a side note, the signup bonus RBC points for the Visa card (3000 for 1st purchase + 500 for registering online) is enough for a $25 Amazon/Target/etc.. gift card. Although, $15 iTunes card at 2000 points seems like the best deal for low point redemptions. Works out to a 0.75% return rate at low points redemption; save it up the points and some of the redemption goes up to 1.25%. Not bad for a free credit card with some insurance features.

[Tharnax]

I think it's been mentioned in this thread (or elsewhere on RFD), but there's a foreign/cross-border charge when you use the RBC USA Platinum Rewards Visa for Canadian based merchants that charge USD. I paid VoIP.ms (based in Quebec) $25 USD and got charged an additional 75 cents fee. I think it's the same when you use it to buy from eBay from Canadians that charge USD.

That's hilarious that CDN merchants charging USD even if you pay in the USD you get an additional charge. So either way, you get screwed over for more then the purchase price. I guess there sometimes isn't a way additional fees/charges.


On a side note, the signup bonus RBC points for the Visa card (3000 for 1st purchase + 500 for registering online) is enough for a $25 Amazon/Target/etc.. gift card. Although, $15 iTunes card at 2000 points seems like the best deal for low point redemptions. Works out to a 0.75% return rate at low points redemption; save it up the points and some of the redemption goes up to 1.25%. Not bad for a free credit card with some insurance features.

Good info, however, I plan to use my card for a while so I'm not so concerned about jumping on redeeming points at the moment but it is nice to know that for signing up for a card that I wanted anyway as already potentially returned $25USD!

[angel_wing0]

That's hilarious that CDN merchants charging USD even if you pay in the USD you get an additional charge. So either way, you get screwed over for more then the purchase price. I guess there sometimes isn't a way additional fees/charges.

Wow stupid. Guess have to use the TD USD card for CDN merchants then =\

[Tharnax]

As per above': I've visited with account manager, have received both the RBC Canadian and US debit card, but have never received an email with my US Access Account #. Should I have?

As previous confirmed, yes you should have. If you have the account manager's information, you should contact them requesting the account number if you haven't already.


Secondly, I only opened a Day to Day Savings and an Access Checking account. I am not really understanding why I would need to open a US High Interest Savings account. I've read/been told that it has something to do with dollar conversion savings, but I'm not understanding. Would this last account only be beneficial if you already had some US cash on hand and wanted to deposit it into this type of account in order to avoid the conversion costs? If that's the case, someone like myself who has no US cash does not really need to open this account, do I?

Technically, this is correct, you don't "need" to have a US High Interest Savings account and a CDN$ Day to Day savings account is fine. You can certainly do everything you want to do with on or the other account there is no "need" to have both. The reason for the US$ High Interest savings account is "if" you believe you can get a better conversion rate then RBC's FX conversion rate. If you can, there are are many ways to do so, then you only need the US$ High Interest savings account because you would first convert your CDN$ to US$ at the preferred rate and then deposit the US$ directly into your US$ High Interest savings account. If you don't care about the FX rate RBC charges then you can certainly just use your Day to Day C$ savings account. The only other downside to this, is if you go on a trip to the US and come back with US$, you either have to keep in "under the mattress" or exchange it back to CDN$ to deposit it since you don't have a US$ account. Even if you have a US$ account with another bank you won't be able to deposit US$ into RBC without first converting it to CDN$ as you don't have a US$ account at RBC Canada. Hope that makes sense.

[guessaaa]

Slightly off topic, due to the RBC USA sale/restructuring, RBC will be sending all Canadian customers with US based accounts a new welcome kit with new account numbers, cheques, debit cards, etc in February, as the accounts will be transitioned to the "new" RBC USA for Canadians only.

[angel_wing0]

Slightly off topic, due to the RBC USA sale/restructuring, RBC will be sending all Canadian customers with US based accounts a new welcome kit with new account numbers, cheques, debit cards, etc in February, as the accounts will be transitioned to the "new" RBC USA for Canadians only.

indeed, my rep also told me that rbc will be sending letters/notices out regarding that.

[angel_wing0]

My new RBC Platinum Visa number and account is already showing in my online account. They actually gave me double the credit limit I asked for.

how many days did it take you after knowing that u are approved? did your card arrive yet (if it's going to canada)?

[Jonavin]

how many days did it take you after knowing that u are approved? did your card arrive yet (if it's going to canada)?

The number showed a day after I was approved. Less than 10 days later, I received the card in Canada.

[angel_wing0]

The number showed a day after I was approved. Less than 10 days later, I received the card in Canada.

thanks X2.

Did you any chance take the free OD they give u on the cc?

[Jonavin]

thanks X2.

Did you any chance take the free OD they give u on the cc?

Wasn't offered it, and I wouldn't have anyways.

[angel_wing0]

Wasn't offered it, and I wouldn't have anyways.

i see, i took it since it's free anyways so why not.

Card still has not appear on my rbc us side yet...

[angel_wing0]

still dont see the cc # on my rbc bank login...gotta give them a call later.

[angel_wing0]

still dont see the cc # on my rbc bank login...gotta give them a call later.

Fixed by RBC Bank after a call on Friday (it was a holiday for them), man gotta say they are much better than RBC Royal Bank over here...

[slaman]

This is a great thread, and thank you all for the great information.

I used to live in the US, and I have a current Citibank US credit card, and a Social Security Number as well. I do not have a US Address.

I want to apply for US-based credit cards to:

take advantage of sign-up bonuses
pay for USD purchases originating in the US
maintain and build US credit history


My concerns are as follows:

How can I apply for a US credit card without a US address?
How can I make make purchases with my US credit card but get the products shipped to Canada?
How can I make online, free payments to US credit cards?


For 1: Is this possible? Do I absolutely need a US address? Most credit card applications don't allow for you to select a country other than "US"

For 2: Assuming I get a US credit card, most merchants won't ship to a different Mailing Address than Billing Address. If that is true, does this imply that my US address needs to be that of a forwarding service? If that is not true, how do I set up a service like Paypal to accept a Canadian Mailing Address for a US account?

For 3: I have a US account with CIBC, but I cannot make payments to US Payees. I believe the RBC US account discussed here in this thread is the only viable option. Since I bank with CIBC, this implies that I transfer funds 4 times to pay bills (CIBC > RBC CDN > RBC CDN USD > RBC US). The Harris Bank option requires 2 transfers with Questrade (CIBC > Questrade > Harris). Can I make online bill payments to US Payees with a Harris bank account?

[angel_wing0]

For 1: Is this possible? Do I absolutely need a US address? Most credit card applications don't allow for you to select a country other than "US"

For 2: Assuming I get a US credit card, most merchants won't ship to a different Mailing Address than Billing Address. If that is true, does this imply that my US address needs to be that of a forwarding service? If that is not true, how do I set up a service like Paypal to accept a Canadian Mailing Address for a US account?

For 3: Can I make online bill payments to US Payees with a Harris bank account?

(1) Yes there are places that would be possible...like RBC US.

(2) Yes, or that can be a place where your friend lives...

(3) Certainly. It is a full US account after all, just like the RBC US account.

[slaman]

(1) Yes there are places that would be possible...like RBC US.

(2) Yes, or that can be a place where your friend lives...

(3) Certainly. It is a full US account after all, just like the RBC US account.


Thx for the responses... but for #1, I wanted to apply to a whole host of other credit cards that were outside of RBC (Amex, Capital One, Citi, etc...)

[angel_wing0]

Thx for the responses... but for #1, I wanted to apply to a whole host of other credit cards that were outside of RBC (Amex, Capital One, Citi, etc...)

well your best solution is to use a us friend address, i doubt it will be a problem for them.

[slaman]

well your best solution is to use a us friend address, i doubt it will be a problem for them.

I realize that I can just use a lettermail forwarding service... unfortunately, I haven't found one that just uses regular USPS to forward mail (at $1 per letter)... shipito.com charges $1 as a receiving fee, but they charge $15 or so postage for their cheapest option...

[nauru]

I realize that I can just use a lettermail forwarding service... unfortunately, I haven't found one that just uses regular USPS to forward mail (at $1 per letter)... shipito.com charges $1 as a receiving fee, but they charge $15 or so postage for their cheapest option...

Pretty sure shipito is $1 or so for the postage and receiving fee combined on letters if you use "fast mailout" option. $15 postage is for packages, not letters.

[angel_wing0]

hmm, what is the us billing address that u guys use again? i remember it was a company in California...thanks.

[slaman]

Pretty sure shipito is $1 or so for the postage and receiving fee combined on letters if you use "fast mailout" option. $15 postage is for packages, not letters.

I couldn't find that written anywhere on their website... I think it is $1 plus postage... but I can't find a cost for the postage (I just want it to be via USPS using the standard $1 postage to Canada), so my total cost would be $2.

Also, do they allow you to discard junk mail?

EDIT: Just called them.. they ship using standard airmail and to Russia, letters are $2.76, so to Canada it would be cheaper...they try to junk any mail, but, if they can't easily determine, they auto-forward... you need to have a balance for the fast mail-out option as well.. otherwise it's $8.50 + postage per piece.

[angel_wing0]

RBC USA Platinum Rewards credit card (the proper US credit card from RBC USA) allows you to have multiple addresses registered on the card, yet only have statements sent to one address. So you can register a dummy address in the USA and then have all your purchases shipped to your home in Canada. So you can easily bypass the anti-Canada restrictions on US websites, since it appears you have a genuine US credit card linked to a genuine US billing address. You can of course choose for your billing address to be different from your shipping address when you make the purchase so that it's billed to someplace in America (2964 Columbia Street, Torrance CA 90503 is my favourite) but shipped to Canada.

i see why that address is your fav: http://realbargain.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/shipito_torrance_columbia.png :D

[theBeachBoy]

This is a great thread, and thank you all for the great information.

I used to live in the US, and I have a current Citibank US credit card, and a Social Security Number as well. I do not have a US Address.

I want to apply for US-based credit cards to:

take advantage of sign-up bonuses
pay for USD purchases originating in the US
maintain and build US credit history


My concerns are as follows:

How can I apply for a US credit card without a US address?
How can I make make purchases with my US credit card but get the products shipped to Canada?
How can I make online, free payments to US credit cards?


For 1: Is this possible? Do I absolutely need a US address? Most credit card applications don't allow for you to select a country other than "US"

For 2: Assuming I get a US credit card, most merchants won't ship to a different Mailing Address than Billing Address. If that is true, does this imply that my US address needs to be that of a forwarding service? If that is not true, how do I set up a service like Paypal to accept a Canadian Mailing Address for a US account?

For 3: I have a US account with CIBC, but I cannot make payments to US Payees. I believe the RBC US account discussed here in this thread is the only viable option. Since I bank with CIBC, this implies that I transfer funds 4 times to pay bills (CIBC > RBC CDN > RBC CDN USD > RBC US). The Harris Bank option requires 2 transfers with Questrade (CIBC > Questrade > Harris). Can I make online bill payments to US Payees with a Harris bank account?

Applying for the US credit card will be very though, I have one and because my driver's licence was canadian, it was a PITA.. I needed my US SSN (which I have) and also my proof of residency which I had to send in my electricity bill (I don't live in the US anymore but I spend all weekends at the cottage, hence the utility bill)

There are some websites that require the same shipping and billing address but they are very rare. Although a lot of site requires the shipping and billing address es to be in the same country. You could have a US shipping address with a forwarding service, but for the billing address it would be very tricky.

Once again, look into a forwarding address, you might be able to switch your RBC credit card to that address, but I highly doubt you can get a new credit card using that address.

[slaman]

I hope to God you mean slightly different as an understatement.



1. Not your question, but to start, please please please remember that the TD Borderfree cheques are Canadian cheques, not ABA-coded checks, and that if you pay someone in the US with you, they're going to hate you because it'll take three weeks to clear and they'll probably be charged a fee for cashing a foreign check.

2. You can convert a TD Borderfree account to a regular US account. I've done it before. It is free unless you opened or converted the account within the last 30 or 90 days, in which case they charge you the early cancellation or early closing fee or whatever they call it.

Best of luck to you.

Can you pay US credit cards with cheques from Canadian USD accounts? They should accept them, no? If so, that saves me from having to get a US-based account!

[angel_wing0]

Can you pay US credit cards with cheques from Canadian USD accounts?

The cheque would be put on hold...nasty delay/charges from the other bank. I would certainly think no.

[slaman]

Applying for the US credit card will be very though, I have one and because my driver's licence was canadian, it was a PITA.. I needed my US SSN (which I have) and also my proof of residency which I had to send in my electricity bill (I don't live in the US anymore but I spend all weekends at the cottage, hence the utility bill)

There are some websites that require the same shipping and billing address but they are very rare. Although a lot of site requires the shipping and billing address es to be in the same country. You could have a US shipping address with a forwarding service, but for the billing address it would be very tricky.

Once again, look into a forwarding address, you might be able to switch your RBC credit card to that address, but I highly doubt you can get a new credit card using that address.

Thanks for the info... Are you suggesting that credit card companies won't accept the "shipito" forwarding address for my billing/mailing address? I guess I'll try!

[theBeachBoy]

You can try, but for me to open the account I had to enter state and driver's licence number.. since that didn't work, they called me and I had to fax in my utility bill. That's where the fwd address might not work.

[angel_wing0]

still waiting for my cc, i got the loc a day later and the info has already been here for a few days orz...

[angel_wing0]

RBC bank CC finally arrives!! now just got to add US address and hit paypal :D

[angel_wing0]

Anyone have success adding their US address as a secondary address on their rbc bank cc? i was told that i could not do that, which i think is complete BS.

EDIT: yes complete BS indeed, called RBC Visa and they added the US one on file right away.

[halflife150]

Has anyone linked these USD based bank accounts and CC to their canadian paypal? From my understanding, the Canadian based USD accounts have trouble funding paypal and end up getting their paypal account locked. Are these USD based accounts fine with a Canadian paypal account for transferring money both in and out? I don't want to open a USD paypal since I would exceed their 2 account limit and they would need a US address, which I don't have. I don't want to lie and risk having my account locked.

[theBeachBoy]

Has anyone linked these USD based bank accounts and CC to their canadian paypal? From my understanding, the Canadian based USD accounts have trouble funding paypal and end up getting their paypal account locked. Are these USD based accounts fine with a Canadian paypal account for transferring money both in and out? I don't want to open a USD paypal since I would exceed their 2 account limit and they would need a US address, which I don't have. I don't want to lie and risk having my account locked.

I have used paypal to transfer money from canada to my US account. It sucks compared to xetrade though so I don't use it anymore.

I have finally opened a second paypal, US based this time.

[halflife150]

I have used paypal to transfer money from canada to my US account. It sucks compared to xetrade though so I don't use it anymore.

I have finally opened a second paypal, US based this time.

I think you misunderstood what I was asking, I don't mean transfer CAD to paypal, convert to USD then send to US account. I meant transferring USD into your Canadian paypal account from your USA Access account. Based on what I've read, transferring USD from a USD account based in Canada will get your paypal account locked. So I don't know if paypal disallows USD funding from just Canadian banks, or if it disallows any USD funding from any bank in the world to your Canadian paypal account. I don't want to risk getting my account locked, so wondering if anybody has had any experience with that and knows for sure, any success with USD funding via bank to a Canadian paypal account.

[angel_wing0]

I think you misunderstood what I was asking, I don't mean transfer CAD to paypal, convert to USD then send to US account. I meant transferring USD into your Canadian paypal account from your USA Access account. Based on what I've read, transferring USD from a USD account based in Canada will get your paypal account locked. So I don't know if paypal disallows USD funding from just Canadian banks, or if it disallows any USD funding from any bank in the world to your Canadian paypal account. I don't want to risk getting my account locked, so wondering if anybody has had any experience with that and knows for sure, any success with USD funding via bank to a Canadian paypal account.

no from what i have heard, no it wont work. You are better off creating a US paypal account...and thats what i just did :D

[cheapcanoehead]

You can do it. I had three US financial institutions all set up at one time. I never used it for currency conversion either but if you want to just move US funds from paypal account to US fin inst. (based in US) or vice versa there should be no issues. What you can't do is transfer US dollars from your paypal account to say a Bank of Nova Scotia US dollar chequing account. That won't work, because if you are going to add a US bank to paypal, paypal is looking for a 9 digit US routing number which is the set of numbers on the far left bottom row of your checks. Paypal won't recognize, a Canadian based financial institution US $ cheque as there is just a 5 digit transit number and 3 digit institution number.

The one exception to this is RBC US E-Savings account. I believe you can modify the transit number somehow and move money one way but not the other. If you search the old threads that was discussed previously.

[angel_wing0]

The one exception to this is RBC US E-Savings account. I believe you can modify the transit number somehow and move money one way but not the other. If you search the old threads that was discussed previously.

indeed: http://forums.redflagdeals.com/linking-canadian-bank-usd-savings-account-paypal-928670/#post12511885

And yes, u can only move money from paypal to the bank account but not the other way around.

[GP-02]

Would anyone in Canada be able to open a US TD Bank account? The account seems better than RBC Access ($100 mbm) except for no integration.

[halflife150]

You can do it. I had three US financial institutions all set up at one time. I never used it for currency conversion either but if you want to just move US funds from paypal account to US fin inst. (based in US) or vice versa there should be no issues.

Not to beat a dead horse, but just want to make sure were on the same page, you were able to move USD from your USD located Banks into your Canadian paypal, it wasn't a USD paypal account but a Canadian paypal account.

[halflife150]

Would anyone in Canada be able to open a US TD Bank account? The account seems better than RBC Access ($100 mbm) except for no integration.

From my understanding, RBC is the only bank that can be opened Canadian side, and even if you could open it, RBC is the only one integrated online for easy USD transfers between your USD accounts located in each country.

[angel_wing0]

Would anyone in Canada be able to open a US TD Bank account? The account seems better than RBC Access ($100 mbm) except for no integration.

You can't. I was told by TD Bank that they require a SSN and driver's license to open their accounts, so even if you are in an US branch you won't be able to open one without those info. Sucks eh? Maybe someone has luck and opened one without those info?


From my understanding, RBC is the only bank that can be opened Canadian side...

and even if you could open it, RBC is the only one integrated online for easy USD transfers between your USD accounts located in each country.

You forgot Harris Bank. Well and HSBC Premier...but that's another story.

Same as above with HSBC Premier :D

[philosofaux]

You forgot Harris Bank. Well and HSBC Premier...but that's another story.

Same as above with HSBC Premier :D

Does Harris Bank have online transfers to BMO yet?
I wouldn't mind leaving RBC for the Sobeys/IGA account at BMO.

I closed my TD account today. The teller said that she didn't blame me; she'd have closed her account to if she had been waiting as long as I have.
It's a shame too because I really liked TD.

[cheapcanoehead]

Not to beat a dead horse, but just want to make sure were on the same page, you were able to move USD from your USD located Banks into your Canadian paypal, it wasn't a USD paypal account but a Canadian paypal account.

Yes, you can use a Canadian paypal account to move US funds from Paypal to an external account at a financial inst. physically in the US or vice-versa. Simply, sign on to your Paypal account and follow steps below:

- Go to Add Funds
- Select Add funds from bank account
- Select Add funds from a bank account in the US

You will then be prompted to answer whether the account is a chequing or savings account. You will be asked for a 9 digit routing number which is the first set of numbers (on the far left) on your cheque. You will be asked for your account number which is another set of numbers on the bottom of your cheque.

Paypal will then make two small deposits into your US account as part of their verification process. They are usually for less than 20 cents as I recall. Once you see the deposits in your US chequing account, you sign back into paypal and there should be a link for you to verify your account. You enter the value of these two deposits then your account is verified.

I used to use Paypal to transfer between two US banks and it worked fine. It was a bit of a slow process as it takes a few days for the transfer to happen, then I think they put a short hold on the funds (but I could be wrong it's been a while since i did that), then when the hold came off I'd transfer the funds out of Paypal to the other US bank.

I never used Paypal for currency conversion though as was said earlier, they don't have good rates for that.

Then later on I signed up for a US paypal account as I'd heard, you can get a debit and credit card if you did so. It didn't work as I don't have a Social Security Number. They froze my US paypal account until I sent them my bank statement that shows a US address. So if you decide to sign up for a US paypal account don't apply for the debit or credit card, it's a pain in the butt to get the freeze off your account. There was no benefit for me to take the US accounts off the Canadian paypal account and open a US paypal account

One other thing that was interesting though, is that I couldn't put the same US accounts on the US paypal account as they were already in use. I had to delete them from the Canadian based paypal account, before I could add them to the US based paypal account. So no point in opening a US and Canadian paypal account and trying to use the same accounts. It wouldn't work at least in my case.

[cheapcanoehead]

Above only works if you use a bank that is physically in the US. Don't attempt if you are using a Canadian banks US chequing account as Paypal needs the US 9 digit routing number. A Canadian transit/institution number won't work except as I mentioned yesterday with RBC US E-Savings, see link that Angel Wing provided earlier if you want to do that

[cheapcanoehead]

should have said in above post except RBC E-Savings.

[Gdc]

You can't. I was told by TD Bank that they require a SSN and driver's license to open their accounts, so even if you are in an US branch you won't be able to open one without those info. Sucks eh? Maybe someone has luck and opened one without those info?

I got a student account with TD Bank US.

I opened it at a Vermont branch.
They CSR needed my passport # and that's it. I got my debit/visa card at the end of our meeting ..and 5 pens! :cheesygri

I even have an overdraft protection.

[angel_wing0]

Does Harris Bank have online transfers to BMO yet?

no.


I got a student account with TD Bank US.

I opened it at a Vermont branch.
They CSR needed my passport # and that's it. I got my debit/visa card at the end of our meeting ..and 5 pens! :cheesygri

I even have an overdraft protection.

nice! maybe i should try and see if i can open mine on my next US trip~

[Gdc]

nice! maybe i should try and see if i can open mine on my next US trip~

...don't forget to ask for your pens! :razz:

[brunes]

You can't. I was told by TD Bank that they require a SSN and driver's license to open their accounts, so even if you are in an US branch you won't be able to open one without those info. Sucks eh? Maybe someone has luck and opened one without those info?

I and other people I know personally have driven across the border and opened accounts at TD Bank USA with nothing more than a passport. You most certainly DO NOT need an SSN. You only need an SSN if you are opening an interest-bearing account, which is not the one I have. I have the basic chequeing which is free as long as I keep $100 minimum in there, and it comes with a visa debit card.

HOWEVER - it is worth noting that right now, besides no-fee ATM access at TD locations on both sides - there is no real advantage to having a TD Bank USA account if you already have a TD Canada Trust account, simply because TD has zero integrations between them currently. You can't transfer money between them at all, without paying the same wire-transfer fee you would pay anywhere else (some people can avoid the wire transfer fee because they have some grandfathered plan from pre-2007, but this no longer exists). Basically the way I transfer money is I write myself a cheque from my TD borderless account and deposit it there via mailing with a deposit slip.

I have been told by a TD rep that this could change in the future, but that was over a year ago and I haven't seen or heard anything since.

As such - there isn't a huge advantage to using TD. The only reason I went with them vs. some other bank or credit union in the area (most of which as I understand will open accounts for Canadians with passports) is because they have the widest coverage over the eastern seaboard which is where I am all the time.

[Gdc]

I and other people I know personally have driven across the border and opened accounts at TD Bank USA with nothing more than a passport. You most certainly DO NOT need an SSN. You only need an SSN if you are opening an interest-bearing account, which is not the one I have. I have the basic chequeing which is free as long as I keep $100 minimum in there, and it comes with a visa debit card.

HOWEVER - it is worth noting that right now, besides no-fee ATM access at TD locations on both sides - there is no real advantage to having a TD Bank USA account if you already have a TD Canada Trust account, simply because TD has zero integrations between them currently. You can't transfer money between them at all, without paying the same wire-transfer fee you would pay anywhere else (some people can avoid the wire transfer fee because they have some grandfathered plan from pre-2007, but this no longer exists). Basically the way I transfer money is I write myself a cheque from my TD borderless account and deposit it there via mailing with a deposit slip.

I have been told by a TD rep that this could change in the future, but that was over a year ago and I haven't seen or heard anything since.

As such - there isn't a huge advantage to using TD. The only reason I went with them vs. some other bank or credit union in the area (most of which as I understand will open accounts for Canadians with passports) is because they have the widest coverage over the eastern seaboard which is where I am all the time.

That's not true. I have a saving account with TD Bank US! ;)

[Jonavin]

I got my RBC Bank / PNC migration package today. An interesting thing I saw in the Q and A, you will be all to do deposits by scanning or taking a photo of the cheque. That's neat. I know other US banks have this feature.

[cool canuck]

I got the transition package today and it said this:
Q: Will my account numbers change, and will i receive new checks, debit cards, and credit cards?
A: Yes

Wow i guess ordering those 50 cheques was a waste, sure hope they cover the cost of mailing new ones since I would have never ordered them if I knew they would be useless in a few months. Also a bit strange that they can't issue new numbers already - will need all new cards in a few months.

[angel_wing0]

I got the transition package today and it said this:
Q: Will my account numbers change, and will i receive new checks, debit cards, and credit cards?
A: Yes

Wow i guess ordering those 50 cheques was a waste, sure hope they cover the cost of mailing new ones since I would have never ordered them if I knew they would be useless in a few months. Also a bit strange that they can't issue new numbers already - will need all new cards in a few months.

sigh just got mine yesterday.

Have to agree with you. If it costs anything i make sure I let them know how i feel.

[halflife150]

Yes, you can use a Canadian paypal account to move US funds from Paypal to an external account at a financial inst. physically in the US or vice-versa. Simply, sign on to your Paypal account and follow steps below:

Then later on I signed up for a US paypal account as I'd heard, you can get a debit and credit card if you did so. It didn't work as I don't have a Social Security Number. They froze my US paypal account until I sent them my bank statement that shows a US address. So if you decide to sign up for a US paypal account don't apply for the debit or credit card, it's a pain in the butt to get the freeze off your account. There was no benefit for me to take the US accounts off the Canadian paypal account and open a US paypal account

One other thing that was interesting though, is that I couldn't put the same US accounts on the US paypal account as they were already in use. I had to delete them from the Canadian based paypal account, before I could add them to the US based paypal account. So no point in opening a US and Canadian paypal account and trying to use the same accounts. It wouldn't work at least in my case.

Thanks, that's what I needed to know. And as you pointed out with your locked US paypal account, that is the whole reason why I don't want to risk opening a US paypal since I don't have a US address and don't want to get locked out. No point if you can do everything Canadian side, so thanks for the confirmation.

[brunes]

That's not true. I have a saving account with TD Bank US! ;)

Wow, someone really bent the rules there!

The reason you are supposed to have an SSN with an interest bearing account is because if you earn any non-tiny amount they start reporting to the IRS, which they can not do without one. Actually I am not sure how you are avoiding that, interesting.

[angel_wing0]

sure is taking TD a long time to do the integration (if it ever gets done at all), guess buying MBNA and making the SC worst (eventually) is probably more important for them. :facepalm:

[Gdc]

Wow, someone really bent the rules there!

The reason you are supposed to have an SSN with an interest bearing account is because if you earn any non-tiny amount they start reporting to the IRS, which they can not do without one. Actually I am not sure how you are avoiding that, interesting.

...a big 0.05% interest rate. :o

http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/4491/74995495.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/4/74995495.jpg/)

[angel_wing0]

^ lol :lol:

[larelr2003]

From my understanding, RBC is the only bank that can be opened Canadian side, and even if you could open it, RBC is the only one integrated online for easy USD transfers between your USD accounts located in each country.
I recently opened a checking account with the Desjardins Bank in Florida through a Desjardins affiliated Caisse Populaire in Canada. Desjardins’ on-line banking set-up is not anywhere as well organized and user friendly as RBC’s but it does work. I now have a debit card, Visa credit card and paper checks from the Desjardins Bank in Florida. There is a fee for on-line transfers from a Canadian caisse to the US Bank and the transfers take 1 to 3 days or so. Desjardins’ exchange rate is not quite as good as RBC’s (but better than some others) and so far I’m not all that impressed with their customer service. Desjardins Caisses are found mostly in Quebec and Eastern Ontario and their USA affiliate has only three branches in south Florida.

[CorSter]

I recently opened a checking account with the Desjardins Bank in Florida through a Desjardins affiliated Caisse Populaire in Canada. Desjardins’ on-line banking set-up is not anywhere as well organized and user friendly as RBC’s but it does work.

You can also open Harris Bank accounts from Canada on their website, but there is absolutely zero integration between them an BMO (also, Harris does not issue their own credit cards so you can't get one from them, and frankly, I think the US Accounts offered by RBC are better).

National Bank also owns a bank in Florida called Natbank, but I have no idea if you can open a Natbank account from Canada.

[angel_wing0]

(also, Harris does not issue their own credit cards so you can't get one from them...)

yes they do actually, thou with the name "BMO Harris Bank":

https://www4.harrisbank.com/Personal+Financial+Services/Card+Services/Credit+Cards

One interesting thing is their debit cards are mc, but their credit cards are visa :lol:

[nauru]

Wow, someone really bent the rules there!

The reason you are supposed to have an SSN with an interest bearing account is because if you earn any non-tiny amount they start reporting to the IRS, which they can not do without one. Actually I am not sure how you are avoiding that, interesting.

My understanding is that if such a situation were to arise, the individual could simply obtain an ITIN for paying taxes. There is no reason to require a SSN even for an interest-bearing account.

[angel_wing0]

well the td us account isnt that useful if cannot integrate with the td cad account. I am just wondering if u can withdraw from the borderless account at a td us atm. Since afaik u cant access the borderless account thru a td atm in canada.

[komodor]

You can also open Harris Bank accounts from Canada on their website, but there is absolutely zero integration between them an BMO (

I was told otherwise. If you open a BMO US chequing account, you can ask to have it linked to your Harris account and do transfers. Hope someone will try it soon and report here.

[TD_Canada]

Hi All. It's Chris from TD. Just wanted to jump in and provide some info. TD Canada Trust customers can open accounts in the US at TD Bank, which will give them access to an account they can withdrawal from in the US, in US dollars, along with a debit card. You no longer need to be residing in the US to open the account. You can also fund the account via wire transfers through EasyLine of up to $5000.00 for free. The one caveat is that we'd need to set up an appointment for you at a TD Bank branch in the US as the account must be opened in person. It's a good option for frequent travelers. You can get more info by calling EasyLine at 1-866-222-3456, available 24/7. They can set up an appointment for you the next time you travel to an area in the US where there's a TD Bank. Hope that helps! ^CT

[angel_wing0]

I was told otherwise. If you open a BMO US chequing account, you can ask to have it linked to your Harris account and do transfers. Hope someone will try it soon and report here.

thats really the first time i hear that tbh...

[angel_wing0]

The one caveat is that we'd need to set up an appointment for you at a TD Bank branch in the US as the account must be opened in person.

Deal breaker on pretty good news imo, rbc bank and harris doesnt require u in person to open a bank account, so why does td require that?

[theBeachBoy]

there are TD banks in NYC, quite easy to gt there.

[halflife150]

If some of you with the USD esavings link to paypal account confirm if it is still working in the following thread, thanks.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/rbc-usd-esavings-link-paypal-broken-1111239/

[angel_wing0]

If some of you with the USD esavings link to paypal account confirm if it is still working in the following thread, thanks.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/rbc-usd-esavings-link-paypal-broken-1111239/

afaik u can only send money to the rbc account from paypal but not the other way around.

[angel_wing0]

Tested a 407 payment on the rbc bank cc:

28 Nov 2011 CROSS BORDER FEE/FOREIGN EXCHANGE FEE 0.03 1.12
28 Nov 2011 407-ETR-WEB WOODBRIDGE ON 1.09 1.09

hmmm, so the fx fee is the 2.5-3% i assume?

[philosofaux]

Tested a 407 payment on the rbc bank cc:

28 Nov 2011 CROSS BORDER FEE/FOREIGN EXCHANGE FEE 0.03 1.12
28 Nov 2011 407-ETR-WEB WOODBRIDGE ON 1.09 1.09

hmmm, so the fx fee is the 2.5% i assume?

From RBC Bank's website.


3% of the U.S. Dollar amount of the foreign transac*tion regardless of whether the transaction is made in U.S. Dollars or in a foreign currency.

[BenK]

If some of you with the USD esavings link to paypal account confirm if it is still working in the following thread, thanks.

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/rbc-usd-esavings-link-paypal-broken-1111239/


afaik u can only send money to the rbc account from paypal but not the other way around.

Yes, you can only send money from PayPal to RBC. You cannot withdraw from RBC into PayPal.

Still worked in mid-Oct... going to be making another withdrawal in the coming weeks so I'll report back.

[angel_wing0]

From RBC Bank's website.

wow 3% eh, even more than the 2.5% here...

[halflife150]

afaik u can only send money to the rbc account from paypal but not the other way around.

Ah, I read his post wrong, I thought he was denied for withdrawing from paypal rather then vise versa. Well he was stupid since that has never worked. But that still doesn't change the fact that mine was still denied. Anyways, I will try again, hopefully it will link up this time. Tried putting the account as chequing instead of savings this time.

[angel_wing0]

Just tried to link mine and it worked. Now just need to wait for the verification deposits...

[halflife150]

Just tried to link mine and it worked. Now just need to wait for the verification deposits...

I can input the data too, it failed on the verification deposits now twice...uggghh. Says account doesn't exist.

Just to make sure I did everything right:
routing number: 026004093
bank name: Royal Bank of Canada
account number: the full number that appears on internet banking for the account
tried both chequing and savings, still nothing.

Is there something wrong with the above info.? I know some other banks require an initial $100 deposit to make it active, but I called RBC and they said it is active even though I haven't made any deposits. Would that be the problem, should I try depositing cash before trying a paypal link?

Plus how long did it take for your csr to email you the account info. for your US located accounts. Been 2 weeks and still received nothing, I have the debit card from snail mail, now just waiting for the email so I can call in and setup the account. I'm starting to think my csr didn't actually know what he was doing. Everyone said csr's have difficulties opening the US located accounts, but my csr seemed to know exactly what he was doing, and setup up the accounts quickly. But now no email info. and my USD esavings to paypal link keeps on failing, maybe he did something wrong.

[angel_wing0]

I can input the data too, it failed on the verification deposits now twice...uggghh. Says account doesn't exist.

where in paypal does it say account doesn't exist? i have the "confirm your bank account" link there, just waiting for the deposits.

[angel_wing0]

Plus how long did it take for your csr to email you the account info. for your US located accounts. Been 2 weeks and still received nothing, I have the debit card from snail mail, now just waiting for the email so I can call in and setup the account.

a few days after my visit to the branch to open the account.

[Tharnax]

I setup a US paypal recently. I have a CDN$ paypal linked to CDN accounts and CDN Credit cards, so I didn't want to screw around with it trying to link either the CDN US$ account (Chequing or savings) or the US US$ checking account in case they disabled to blocked the account.

I didn't order checks when I opened the US access account so I didn't know what my routing number was but I did open a US Paypal account using a different email address. I link the RBC US Platinum Visa to it but I couldn't link the US checking account because I didn't know the routing. I contacted a CSR in the US by email and she emailed me the routing number. Used that information for Paypal and a few days later got the two deposits into my US access checking account. Confirmed those amounts with Paypal and it all seems to be setup now. I've made a single purchase since using the Visa card through Paypal with no issues and the product has been shipped.

I haven't tried moving money back and forth between the US access and the US Paypal yet.

As for the previous question about emailing of the US access checking account number, mine only took a few days. Well before I received anything in the mail from RBC USA. If you haven't received an email with your US access checking account number within a 5 business day after setting everything up with an RBC account manager I would be contacting him/her.

[angel_wing0]

I setup a US paypal recently. I have a CDN$ paypal linked to CDN accounts and CDN Credit cards, so I didn't want to screw around with it trying to link either the CDN US$ account (Chequing or savings) or the US US$ checking account in case they disabled to blocked the account.

Same here man, liking the new US paypal account. No use for the TD one anymore tbh...

[halflife150]

where in paypal does it say account doesn't exist? i have the "confirm your bank account" link there, just waiting for the deposits.

I receive an email titled: Bank Account Invalid‏

"The two deposits that PayPal sent to your bank account as part of the bank confirmation process were returned to us for the following reason:

Your bank does not recognize this bank account number."

Either paypal doesn't recognize RBC savings accounts, which we will see if it works for you, or I screwed up somehow or the CSR did. I think I input all the correct information so I don't think it is me, correct me if any the info. in the previous post is wrong. Your RBC account number is the one that appears on your online page right? RBC says the account is active. So I don't know what is going on. Is my online access giving me the wrong account number? Frustrating.


I did open a US Paypal account using a different email address. I link the RBC US Platinum Visa to it but I couldn't link the US checking account because I didn't know the routing. I haven't tried moving money back and forth between the US access and the US Paypal yet.

Someone on here said you can link your Canadian paypal to your USD located accounts. I wouldn't try opening a US paypal account since paypal would have good reason to close it, because not only do you not have a valid US address, but you're probably over the 2 account limit. Why risk having your accounts locked/closed. I guess it doesn't matter if you're just using your cc's with paypal. But if you regularly keep cash or use it to receive cash, I wouldn't risk being locked out of that money. You hear so many paypal horror stories, lucky paypal so far has been good, I don't want to risk messing that up.


As for the previous question about emailing of the US access checking account number, mine only took a few days. Well before I received anything in the mail from RBC USA. If you haven't received an email with your US access checking account number within a 5 business day after setting everything up with an RBC account manager I would be contacting him/her.

I waited 5 days then called, got machine and left message, decided to give another 5 days, now I think I'll start calling everyday or even just visit the person. I've only got another 2 weeks to make my first deposit before my account is auto closed. Time sensitive info. I need here.

[BenK]

I receive an email titled: Bank Account Invalid‏

"The two deposits that PayPal sent to your bank account as part of the bank confirmation process were returned to us for the following reason:

Your bank does not recognize this bank account number."

Either paypal doesn't recognize RBC savings accounts, which we will see if it works for you, or I screwed up somehow or the CSR did. I think I input all the correct information so I don't think it is me, correct me if any the info. in the previous post is wrong. Your RBC account number is the one that appears on your online page right? RBC says the account is active. So I don't know what is going on. Is my online access giving me the wrong account number? Frustrating.


Did you follow the instructions on how to add the RBC account? Cause its not as simple as doing what it says to do on Paypal. It's been posted several times in the RFD forums...

What RBC account are you trying to link to PayPal...?

[angel_wing0]

What RBC account are you trying to link to PayPal...?

i m sure he is referring to the usd e-savings.

[halflife150]

Did you follow the instructions on how to add the RBC account? Cause its not as simple as doing what it says to do on Paypal. It's been posted several times in the RFD forums...

What RBC account are you trying to link to PayPal...?

Currently trying the Canadian based USD esavings account. I already posted what I did, and yes I followed what others have posted on rfd, but here it is again the info. I input:

Just to make sure I did everything right:
country: USA
routing number: 026004093
bank name: Royal Bank of Canada
account number: the full number that appears on internet banking for the account, which includes the bank transit number
tried both chequing and savings, still nothing.

[BenK]

Currently trying the Canadian based USD esavings account. I already posted what I did, and yes I followed what others have posted on rfd, but here it is again the info. I input:

Just to make sure I did everything right:
country: USA
routing number: 026004093
bank name: Royal Bank of Canada
account number: the full number that appears on internet banking for the account, which includes the bank transit number
tried both chequing and savings, still nothing.

pretty sure the number that appears on the internet banking site isn't your transit number + account number... how many digits is it?

proper way of doing it is to go in branch and ask for a void cheque form

[halflife150]

pretty sure the number that appears on the internet banking site isn't your transit number + account number... how many digits is it?

proper way of doing it is to go in branch and ask for a void cheque form

I'm pretty sure it is, the transit number is definitely correct since I've used that number before, and the other 7 digits are the actual account number because I've used the same type of numbers to link my other Canadian accounts to paypal. But I guess I could try getting a void cheque form, but I don't think the numbers would be any different.

[angel_wing0]

pretty sure the number that appears on the internet banking site isn't your transit number + account number...

how many digits is it?

it should be, else i m screwed as well :D

5 + 7.

[angel_wing0]

I'm pretty sure it is, the transit number is definitely correct since I've used that number before, and the other 7 digits are the actual account number because I've used the same type of numbers to link my other Canadian accounts to paypal. But I guess I could try getting a void cheque form, but I don't think the numbers would be any different.

well got my deposits, and guess what:

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/4954/clipboard01lg.png

so must be something u are doing wrong...

[halflife150]

well got my deposits, and guess what:

so must be something u are doing wrong...

Thanks, I don't think it is me though since there is only a few things I could input and therefore get wrong. Beside the account number difference which you just pulled from the same online place I did, you input the same routing number and bank name as I did right? So it can't be me.

That leaves only one culprit left, idiot bank is messing something up.

The only other thing I can think of is maybe the fact that I already have Canadian accounts including one Canadian bank account from RBC already linked to my paypal is maybe messing it up? Maybe paypal only allows one account per bank???

[angel_wing0]

Thanks, I don't think it is me though since there is only a few things I could input and therefore get wrong. Beside the account number difference which you just pulled from the same online place I did, you input the same routing number and bank name as I did right? So it can't be me.

Well my gut says it's you actually. How do you enter the bank account on to paypal? say if it shows "12345-1234567", do you enter it EXACTLY the same way like that? If you do, then it's 100% you. Put "123451234567" instead.

[halflife150]

Well my gut says it's you actually. How do you enter the bank account on to paypal? say if it shows "12345-1234567", do you enter it EXACTLY the same way like that? If you do, then it's 100% you. Put "123451234567" instead.

Well if you don't disagree with how I input bank name/routing number, then the only thing I could possibly screw up on is the bank number. But we both agree we got it from the same place, albeit different numbers. And I input it as all one number, I don't even think paypal will allow you to enter it with a "-" in it. So unless I become temporarly dyslexic when I input for the link, I don't think it is me. I've done this twice, double and triple checked every single digit, still nothing. I guess I'll have to try a third time, but without knowing what is actually wrong, I doubt it will work, since I'm just going to be entering the exact same data that got rejected the first 2 times. It has to be my banks fault.

[angel_wing0]

It has to be my banks fault.

If it's not the "-"'s fault, then i take back what i said. If it just won't work, tell your rep to close that account down and open u a new one :D I think you have more than a valid reason for them to go thru with that.

[angel_wing0]

Just a note that I have received the 3501 points for registering on RBC Rewards and my Visa's first trx. Too bad i cant register the debit card anymore...

[Tharnax]

Someone on here said you can link your Canadian paypal to your USD located accounts. I wouldn't try opening a US paypal account since paypal would have good reason to close it, because not only do you not have a valid US address, but you're probably over the 2 account limit. Why risk having your accounts locked/closed. I guess it doesn't matter if you're just using your cc's with paypal. But if you regularly keep cash or use it to receive cash, I wouldn't risk being locked out of that money. You hear so many paypal horror stories, lucky paypal so far has been good, I don't want to risk messing that up.

I guess it is true there is a risk to this approach but as far as I'm concerned there is a risk to any approach. My permanent shipping address is a Buffalo address so it is no way linked to the address for my CDN paypal. My alternate address is an address in Miami, so besides possible IP address matching, which I have VPN to minimize that, there is no way Paypal should see these two accounts as the same person. If I get the occasional mailing to the my freight forwarder address in Buffalo, I either go often enough to pick it up or I'll just have them ship me the letters (bi-weekly) in the mail. Either way, the savings and lack of hassles now with cross-boarder shopping is worth it. For CDN purchases I use my CDN paypal for US purchases I use US paypal. It is an extra step to move money to the US Access account then to the CDN US$ e-savings account but based on the number of purchases I make in the US that isn't likely to happen very often.


Just a note that I have received the 3501 points for registering on RBC Rewards and my Visa's first trx. Too bad i cant register the debit card anymore...

Didn't we get a letter recently that the RBC Rewards was changing or is that just specific to banking activities and has no impact on the VISA rewards. Personally, I don't really care about the rewards the savings alone justifies it but it is a nice "bonus".

[nabeel]

Well if you don't disagree with how I input bank name/routing number, then the only thing I could possibly screw up on is the bank number. But we both agree we got it from the same place, albeit different numbers. And I input it as all one number, I don't even think paypal will allow you to enter it with a "-" in it. So unless I become temporarly dyslexic when I input for the link, I don't think it is me. I've done this twice, double and triple checked every single digit, still nothing. I guess I'll have to try a third time, but without knowing what is actually wrong, I doubt it will work, since I'm just going to be entering the exact same data that got rejected the first 2 times. It has to be my banks fault.
Just to confirm, you are entering, into Paypal, R/T number 026004093 and A/C number of format 0xxxx4xxxxxx (i.e. exactly 12 digits, starting with 0, and 6th digit is a 4)?

[halflife150]

Just to confirm, you are entering, into Paypal, R/T number 026004093 and A/C number of format 0xxxx4xxxxxx (i.e. exactly 12 digits, starting with 0, and 6th digit is a 4)?

Yes

[angel_wing0]

Didn't we get a letter recently that the RBC Rewards was changing or is that just specific to banking activities and has no impact on the VISA rewards. Personally, I don't really care about the rewards the savings alone justifies it but it is a nice "bonus".

It's just specific to banking no effect on credit card.

[Tharnax]

It's just specific to banking no effect on credit card.

Did you review these points online? I logged in and see the recent transactions on my US Visa but don't know where the rewards points are listed. I just wanted to check to see if I got the rewards bonus.

[angel_wing0]

Did you review these points online? I logged in and see the recent transactions on my US Visa but don't know where the rewards points are listed. I just wanted to check to see if I got the rewards bonus.

yeah they are there, listed on the top right of the page. Anyway, for me it's 500 for registering online, 3000 for visa first time use, and 1 for that 407 trx u see on the last page for a total of 3501 points :D

[Tharnax]

yeah they are there, listed on the top right of the page. Anyway, for me it's 500 for registering online, 3000 for visa first time use, and 1 for that 407 trx u see on the last page for a total of 3501 points :D

Do you log into to RBC Bank USA to view it or into a specific US Visa site to see the points?

[mc_molineux]

yeah they are there, listed on the top right of the page. Anyway, for me it's 500 for registering online, 3000 for visa first time use, and 1 for that 407 trx u see on the last page for a total of 3501 points :D
What do you have to do to get the 500 points for registering? And is the 3000 first use bonus automatic just when you first charge something on the card, or do you have to do something to be eligible?

[Tharnax]

What do you have to do to get the 500 points for registering? And is the 3000 first use bonus automatic just when you first charge something on the card, or do you have to do something to be eligible?

I'll wait for Angel_wing's comments on the 500 points for registering. Not sure what he "registered" for. However, the 3000 bonus points are supposed to be after your first purchase according to the bottom of the following site: http://www.rbcbankusa.com/creditcards/cid-95704.html
The extra $1 was for his first purchase, which was $1.

[angel_wing0]

Do you log into to RBC Bank USA to view it or into a specific US Visa site to see the points?

https://www.rbcbankusaredemption.com/pages/user/login.aspx

[angel_wing0]

What do you have to do to get the 500 points for registering?

And is the 3000 first use bonus automatic just when you first charge something on the card?

Register on the RBC Rewards site.

Yes.


I'll wait for Angel_wing's comments on the 500 points for registering. Not sure what he "registered" for.

RBC Rewards website.

[Tharnax]

Register on the RBC Rewards site.

RBC Rewards website.

Done! and done! Now I can see all my rewards points, now I just wait for the extra 500 points for registering to show up. Thanks!

[mc_molineux]

Register on the RBC Rewards site.

Yes.



RBC Rewards website.

Thanks. Did you register your Visa on the site, or your bank card? Or both?

[angel_wing0]

Done! and done! Now I can see all my rewards points, now I just wait for the extra 500 points for registering to show up. Thanks!

np, the 500 pts should show up right after u register..at least they did for me.


Thanks. Did you register your Visa on the site, or your bank card? Or both?

np man, they actually stopped taking visa debit registrations starting oct 7th, so only visa cc.

[mc_molineux]

np man, they actually stopped taking visa debit registrations starting oct 7th, so only visa cc.

Thanks. Weird that it still says "Credit or Check Card #" on the entry screen.

[mc_molineux]

From RBC USA:

Don't have enough points to redeem the reward you want?

You can purchase points in 1,000 point blocks for just $35 per block. Points purchased will be credited to your point balance immediately so you can use them for rewards.

According to that, these bonus points are worth $122.50. Not a bad little bonus. Thanks for the heads-up, Angel Wing!

Edit: But according to this, they're only worth $25:

"That's 3,500 Total Rewards Points - enough to redeem for a $25 gift card!

Why the hell would anyone want to buy 1000 points for $35?

[angel_wing0]

Thanks. Weird that it still says "Credit or Check Card #" on the entry screen.

Right on money, i called rbc, and they said they just didnt change it.

But here is the answer: https://www.rbcbankusaredemption.com/pages/content/faq.aspx#Answer1

What federal changes were made on Oct 1st?!

[mc_molineux]

Right on money, i called rbc, and they said they just didnt change it.

But here is the answer: https://www.rbcbankusaredemption.com/pages/content/faq.aspx#Answer1

What federal changes were made on Oct 1st?!
They brought in limits on what banks can charge merchants on debit card transactions. I think it is capped at 25 cents or so now. Less fees for the banks = less rewards for us. Better for merchants I guess, but I doubt prices will fall as a result.

[Tharnax]

np, the 500 pts should show up right after u register..at least they did for me.

Nope, checked again this morning and no 500 bonus pts for registering. :(

Maybe I already used the card too much before I registered so they are not giving me the 500 bonus pts. I should call but really for $3.5 it isn't worth the time spent on hold.

On the positive side, wired some cash over yesterday to cover the upcoming CC bill and with my spot rate I got an exchange of 1.016 so that more then makes for any "lost points". Only downside is had I waited one more day to do the conversion I'd have saved myself approximately another $.005 per $1 transferred, oh well. All setup just in time for Black Friday and Cyber Monday!

[mc_molineux]

Nope, checked again this morning and no 500 bonus pts for registering. :(

Maybe I already used the card too much before I registered so they are not giving me the 500 bonus pts. I should call but really for $3.5 it isn't worth the time spent on hold.

On the positive side, wired some cash over yesterday to cover the upcoming CC bill and with my spot rate I got an exchange of 1.016 so that more then makes for any "lost points". Only downside is had I waited one more day to do the conversion I'd have saved myself approximately another $.005 per $1 transferred, oh well. All setup just in time for Black Friday and Cyber Monday!

Nice rate. Was that wiring from RBC CAD account to RBC USD account, or through another provider?

[halflife150]

For those that signed up for the USD esavings account, on the day of the signup, in your transaction area does it say **Account Switch** in the description column on your online statements? Because maybe that might account for the reason I'm having trouble? Why does it say account switch at all when I'm opening a new account and therefore not switching from anything?

[mc_molineux]

For those that signed up for the USD esavings account, on the day of the signup, in your transaction area does it say **Account Switch** in the description column on your online statements? Because maybe that might account for the reason I'm having trouble? Why does it say account switch at all when I'm opening a new account and therefore not switching from anything?

On the transaction summary, or the monthly PDF statements?

[Tharnax]

Nice rate. Was that wiring from RBC CAD account to RBC USD account, or through another provider?

Another provider, so to speak. I have a family member who works for an investment dealer. He gets spot rate on all currency conversions and then for free he can wire the US funds directly to my CDN RBC USD e-savings account. It certainly saves reading all the threads about who has the best currency conversion rates. ;)

[halflife150]

On the transaction summary, or the monthly PDF statements?

Shouldn't they be the same? Whatever is on the transaction summary should also be on the PDF statements I believe. Anyways I'm talking transaction summary since my accounts are to new for actual monthly statements yet. I have an **Account Switch** transaction within the transaction summary. Trying to figure if that is unique to me or others get that as well. That might explain the paypal failures.

[mc_molineux]

Shouldn't they be the same? Whatever is on the transaction summary should also be on the PDF statements I believe. Anyways I'm talking transaction summary since my accounts are to new for actual monthly statements yet. I have an **Account Switch** transaction within the transaction summary. Trying to figure if that is unique to me or others get that as well. That might explain the paypal failures.
I didn't get that. I was an existing RBC customer though and just added the account online.

[slaman]

Damn... I'm SO close... MY US-based (Amex) credit card application is waiting for approval. They accepted a paystub instead of a tax return, they need a photocopy of my SIN (which I can get), but now they need a utility bill or a bank statement with my US address.

I am using Shipito.com, so this is posing to be a challenge. Where can I get a bank account that has my Shipito.com address as the primary address without the need for a driver's licence or utility bill?

[halflife150]

Finally it linked :D Though I have no idea which of 2 things worked. For future reference if others have future trouble.

Either

a) Original CSR was an idiot and did something because I opened a second account and successfully linked it, so maybe the first account I used was bogus or something.

b) At the same time of the confirmation I decided to delete my already linked RBC CAD account. So I don't know if paypal doesn't allow multiple accounts from same bank or multiple accounts with differing currencies from the same bank. I can't find anything on that. Only thing I know you can't do is use same bank account for 2 different paypals.

Thanks for trying to help.

Now I just have to wait for the CSR to still email me account info. for the USD based account. Anyone know if I can call USA instead and have them try send me an email or something?

[halflife150]

Are there any fees from withdrawing USD if under a certain limit? I believe if I remember correctly that if you withdraw less then something like $250 CAD that you get hit with a fee, but Americans don't, I don't know if that just applies to American paypal accounts or any withdrawals in USD in general avoid fees.

[angel_wing0]

They brought in limits on what banks can charge merchants on debit card transactions. I think it is capped at 25 cents or so now. Less fees for the banks = less rewards for us. Better for merchants I guess, but I doubt prices will fall as a result.

oic...thanks for the info.


Nope, checked again this morning and no 500 bonus pts for registering. :(

Maybe I already used the card too much before I registered so they are not giving me the 500 bonus pts. I should call but really for $3.5 it isn't worth the time spent on hold.

True, well might as well imo xD

[theflyingsquirrel]

I opened up a US account in WellsFargo.
It is a nightmare.
I have to go to US to open and most of the staff in the bank have no idea how to do it for Canadians.
They will simply tell you that you cannot do it.
Before you cross the border, give the branch you are going to a call and make sure someone in there can do it for you.
Make sure you get the name of the person and that he will be there when you are there.

One thing to note is that the bank can notarize the documents for you for free if you need that service.

If you are opening an interest account, you will have to file tax return.
You are going to need to get ITIN (Individual tax identify number) to do so.


For money transfer, that is the trick part.
You should not do it with the bank!
Yes, you heard me right, do not use the bank to do the transfer.
They are slow, hard and have bad rates.
I use xetrade to transfer money from canada to US and from US to canada with a few clicks from my computer.
You can do it online with the best rate and no wire transfer fee!
I once line up in the bank to do the wire transfer from CAD to USD to US.
No one seems to know how to do it. And it took me 1.5 hrs!
I am using Scotia Bank. I hope it is just my bank and branch.

In US, it is easier to get a VISA check card. You can use it as a VISA card, but it debit from your checking account.

[angel_wing0]

Finally it linked :D

Anyone know if I can call USA instead and have them try send me an email or something?

Good to hear.

You can try with your name/address i guess, but its hard without card or account #...

[halflife150]

Good to hear.

You can try with your name/address i guess, but its hard without card or account #...

I actually have my card, and the reason I would be calling would be to get the account # so obviously wouldn't have that.

[angel_wing0]

I actually have my card, and the reason I would be calling would be to get the account # so obviously wouldn't have that.

then i dont see what the problem would be if u have the card. Anyway just call in :lol:

[rseiler]

It doesn't look like it, but has anyone put together an FAQ (or How-To or Best Practices) on all this? There's a lot of information here, of course, but reading the thread straight through leads to information overload. Even if it only dealt with RBC initially, anything organized into one post would be helpful.

[Tharnax]

It doesn't look like it, but has anyone put together an FAQ (or How-To or Best Practices) on all this? There's a lot of information here, of course, but reading the thread straight through leads to information overload. Even if it only dealt with RBC initially, anything organized into one post would be helpful.

I would agree with this post 100%. The original thread is quite old now and not all scenarios are still relevant. It would be worth while to have individual threads for the with steps for each available option, pros/cons of the option and let individuals choose what is best for them based on their unique situation. I'm happy to do a new one specific for RBC US banking. Anyone else want to volunteer for one of the other options available? WellsFargo was discussed, BMO/Harris bank has been discussed, any other options?

[angel_wing0]

I would agree with this post 100%. The original thread is quite old now and not all scenarios are still relevant. It would be worth while to have individual threads for the with steps for each available option, pros/cons of the option and let individuals choose what is best for them based on their unique situation. I'm happy to do a new one specific for RBC US banking. Anyone else want to volunteer for one of the other options available? WellsFargo was discussed, BMO/Harris bank has been discussed, any other options?

TD Bank, but u have to setup an appointment with TD Canada and open it in person in the US.

[rseiler]

I would agree with this post 100%. The original thread is quite old now and not all scenarios are still relevant. It would be worth while to have individual threads for the with steps for each available option, pros/cons of the option and let individuals choose what is best for them based on their unique situation. I'm happy to do a new one specific for RBC US banking. Anyone else want to volunteer for one of the other options available? WellsFargo was discussed, BMO/Harris bank has been discussed, any other options?
That would be great. I later found your megapost, which seems to be the closest this thread has come to a summation. Is anything there no longer current/correct?
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/us-bank-account-credit-card-canadians-943374/4/#post13603848

It's too bad this board doesn't have a wiki feature like some do, where near the top of the first page you have an area that everyone can edit and that by its position is very noticeable.

[Tharnax]

TD Bank, but u have to setup an appointment with TD Canada and open it in person in the US.

Yes, TD is another option.

So possible 100% US bank account and US based Credit Card options for Cross boarder shoppers/travelers are:
RBC
TD
BMO/Harris Bank
Wells Fargo

I'm happy to take on RBC but is there anyone who would like to volunteer to create a beginning to end process for any of the other three choices. Preferrably someone who had setup their account recently.


That would be great. I later found your megapost, which seems to be the closest this thread has come to a summation. Is anything there no longer current/correct?
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/us-bank-account-credit-card-canadians-943374/4/#post13603848

It's too bad this board doesn't have a wiki feature like some do, where near the top of the first page you have an area that everyone can edit and that by its position is very noticeable.

As of this post "No" it is still quite accurate. That said, there are some changes behind the scenes in regards to "ownership" of the accounts, as RBC sold their banking business earlier this year. It seems all of us RBC customers will be getting a new debit, credit card and account number. So the only thing to suggest at this point if going with the RBC option is not to purchase cheques right away, wait until the new account information is sent then order cheques. Supposedly all transfers between a US$ high interest CDN savings account and the US access checking account will continue to work with single sign-on after the transition but all of us have yet to see the changes.

[halflife150]

That would be great. I later found your megapost, which seems to be the closest this thread has come to a summation. Is anything there no longer current/correct?
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/us-bank-account-credit-card-canadians-943374/4/#post13603848

It's too bad this board doesn't have a wiki feature like some do, where near the top of the first page you have an area that everyone can edit and that by its position is very noticeable.

Maybe 1 adjustment to that post, if your CAD CSR hasn't emailed your account info. by the time you get your USD debit card(ie. around 1-2 weeks), then just call in anyways to setup the USD account with phone number located on back of card. Tell them you haven't received your account number but have on you the USD debit card, and give them that number instead. Either I had a good USD CSR or a bunch of people have done this in the last few weeks since Tharnax tried, because my call was quick, basically the CSR was answering the questions before I even finished asking them.

[mc_molineux]

Maybe 1 adjustment to that post, if your CAD CSR hasn't emailed your account info. by the time you get your USD debit card(ie. around 1-2 weeks), then just call in anyways to setup the USD account with phone number located on back of card. Tell them you haven't received your account number but have on you the USD debit card, and give them that number instead. Either I had a good USD CSR or a bunch of people have done this in the last few weeks since Tharnax tried, because my call was quick, basically the CSR was answering the questions before I even finished asking them.

I agree that the megapost is an awesome summary of how to set this up with RBC.

One thing I would add though is that you don't have to wait until your debit card arrives and you make that activation call to apply for the Visa. A couple of days after you go into the Canadian branch to set up your account, you should get a "welcome" call from your assigned account manager at RBC in the U.S. During this call my gentleman asked if I wanted the Visa, and went through the application with me. As a result, my Visa arrived only a couple of days after my debit card. Even if he/she doesn't ask about the Visa during this call, you could ask them.

[Tharnax]

I agree that the megapost is an awesome summary of how to set this up with RBC.

One thing I would add though is that you don't have to wait until your debit card arrives and you make that activation call to apply for the Visa. A couple of days after you go into the Canadian branch to set up your account, you should get a "welcome" call from your assigned account manager at RBC in the U.S. During this call my gentleman asked if I wanted the Visa, and went through the application with me. As a result, my Visa arrived only a couple of days after my debit card. Even if he/she doesn't ask about the Visa during this call, you could ask them.

I agree with both posts, unfortunately, the multiple number of steps during the step process means not everyone is going to have the exact same experience. For example, both Angel_Wing0 and I received an email from our CDN RBC account manager with our account number but halflife didn't. This could be a branch issue or a procedural change. But it is relevant to post both scenarios.

As for your welcome call, I didn't get mine until after I already had my debit card and activated it. So it made sense to ask for the VISA when I activated the debt card. Maybe the best approach here would be to suggest that during your first phone discussion with an RBC USA rep (whether they call you or you call them) request to apply for the VISA card if you want one.

[mc_molineux]

I agree with both posts, unfortunately, the multiple number of steps during the step process means not everyone is going to have the exact same experience. For example, both Angel_Wing0 and I received an email from our CDN RBC account manager with our account number but halflife didn't. This could be a branch issue or a procedural change. But it is relevant to post both scenarios.

As for your welcome call, I didn't get mine until after I already had my debit card and activated it. So it made sense to ask for the VISA when I activated the debt card. Maybe the best approach here would be to suggest that during your first phone discussion with an RBC USA rep (whether they call you or you call them) request to apply for the VISA card if you want one.
I got the account number emailed to me, but only after I asked for it from my CDN rep. I agree with you that the recommendation should be to ask for the Visa during "first contact" with RBC USA.

[larelr2003]

..................................
So possible 100% US bank account and US based Credit Card options for Cross boarder shoppers/travelers are:
RBC
TD
BMO/Harris Bank
Wells Fargo
........................................

Desjardins Too. Next to RBC probably best account integration. Also can open from Canada.

[Tharnax]

Desjardins Too. Next to RBC probably best account integration. Also can open from Canada.

Have you opened the appropriate accounts with Desjardins? Can you document the process?

Not directed at you larelr2003:

Before creating a new post with each option and steps to get it setup I'd like to secure someone who has actually gone through the process of setting up an account(s) with one of the methods listed in the last 6 months. As it is the only way to ensure the process is still relevant. I appreciate posts that say "X" bank can "do it" but really it doesn't help a potential RFD reader without the steps involved that they would have to take to get themselves setup. Unfortunately, I can only volunteer to do RBC as this is the route I went with. It may or may not be the best but without detailed steps of the alternatives (maybe with pros & cons) how is any future individual supposed to weed through this and make an informed decision about which is the best choice for him/her?

[laptop-tech]

Just wanted to add another bank (if it was not mentioned before). National Bank (nbc.ca) also has branches in Florida and allows canadians to open bank accounts in the US without going there. You can just go to any NBC branch and apply for a US based bank account.
I dont know if you can get other products (credit cards, etc).

[larelr2003]

Have you opened the appropriate accounts with Desjardins? Can you document the process? ..............................

Yes. Since I will be traveling when RBC sends me my new check and credit cards in February, about two months ago I opened up accounts with Desjardins to accommodate our US banking needs this winter. I will attempt to document the process.

[halflife150]

I agree with both posts, unfortunately, the multiple number of steps during the step process means not everyone is going to have the exact same experience. For example, both Angel_Wing0 and I received an email from our CDN RBC account manager with our account number but halflife didn't. This could be a branch issue or a procedural change. But it is relevant to post both scenarios.

Doubt it's procedural or even a branch issue, I think my CSR just sucked, because the USD esavings account he opened for me didn't work either, had to open a second one that finally connected to paypal.

I also haven't received a welcome call or email or anything.

So basically the step in question should say, call when receive either email or card, then setup everything including any loans/cc during first call.

[CorSter]

I'm down in New Hampshire this weekend. Popped into the TD Bank branch downtown yesterday and had no issue opening an account (was rejected at BoA for not having a US address).

[halflife150]

Anybody ever able to link paypal to any other Canadian located USD accounts other than the RBC accounts? I just found this site http://www.routingnumbers.org/, have people tried these routing numbers and failed?

Anyways got a few questions:
Does Canadian RBC accept US RBC cheques drawn from own US RBC account, can you deposit them via RBC atm into your Canadian RBC USD account? Can you withdraw USD cash from your USA RBC account using either Canadian RBC banks/atms or any other atms located in Canada?

I just realized that I'm going to regularly withdraw USD cash while in Canada, don't ask why, any way, the esavings only gives one free transaction per month and after that its $3 per, kind of expensive. Any cheap way around this, ideally free if possible. Get US cash from paypal and USA bank account into Canada.

[angel_wing0]

I just realized that I'm going to regularly withdraw USD cash while in Canada, don't ask why, any way, the esavings only gives one free transaction per month and after that its $3 per, kind of expensive. Any cheap way around this, ideally free if possible. Get US cash from paypal and USA bank account into Canada.

ING perhaps?

TD Borderless for sure.

[cheapcanoehead]

I take it halflife from your previous posts, and questions about linking up RBC E-Savings with paypal that you are using paypal just to transfer US dollars from a US bank to a Canadian based US dollar account. You go to the paypal site and deposit US dollars to paypal from your account at a US financial institution. Then when the money is available in paypal you transfer to US RBC E-Savings account. If your US account (located at a bank physically in the US) is not RBC then this is the best way to do it, however, you are limited to once per month (for withdrawls from RBC E-Savings) which is all that most others would need it. You say you need to do this multiple times in a month, I can't think of a free way to do this.

To the best of my knowledge, you aren't going to be able to link up any Canadian based banks US chequing accounts to paypal. I believe RBC is the only one you can do this with and as was explained in previous posts this only works when transferring in one direction. You can transfer US$ from paypal to RBC but don't try to take US dollars in an RBC US E-Savings account and deposit back to US paypal. It won't work.

One option that will cost you 2$ US per month is to open an RBC US Chequing account. This account has a 2$ monthly fee but includes 6 withdrawls. I don't know if you can link the RBC US Chequing to Paypal as you did with E-Savings. When they used to issue the par crossed cheques (years ago) I know that you could. I think they did away with the par crossed cheques so I'm unsure as to whether it can be set up with Paypal, perhaps someone else can advise.

Even if it can't be done what you could do, is transfer out from Paypal to US E-Savings. Then transfer from US E-Savings to RBC US chequing. Then withdraw from RBC US chequing. You could do that 6 times per month for a 2$ fee. Transfers from US- E-Savings to another RBC account are not considered a withdrawl, and thus are not subject to a 3$ fee or whatever it is. This may be your best bet.

Other methods are:

1) Avoid Paypal altogether, and just deposit a US cheque drawn on the US financial institution and deposit it in your Canadian based US chequing account. Drawback to this is the hold period will be at least 15-30 days so you won't be able to access the funds quickly.

2) Wire money- fast but expensive.

3) BMO's premium plan which requires you to keep $5000.00 in the account at all times to avoid fees, has a service where you can transfer money to US financial institutions by phone. It wasn't clear to me whether this only works one way Can based fin inst to US based fin inst. I think you always want to go the other direction. You can ask if it's possible for them to take money from your US fin inst and deposit in a Canadian based US account. My guess is no, but no harm in asking.

Most Canadian based US accounts have fees per withdrawl. RBC E-Savings gives you one freebie per month, Scotia's US account gives you two freebies per month however you must keep 200$ as a minimum balance to avoid all fees. I don't think that helps though as you can't get the money from Paypal to Scotia, or ING or TD borderless in any case.

[cheapcanoehead]

Maybe RBC will let you open multiple US E-Savings accounts. You could open 4 of them if you need 4 free withdrawls per month or 6 if you need 6. No harm in asking.

[angel_wing0]

Get US cash from paypal and USA bank account into Canada.

Its really almost impossible as paypal only works with rbc us esavings...i recommend u just withdraw/transfer a big amount once and put the money into another US account.

[halflife150]

Maybe RBC will let you open multiple US E-Savings accounts. You could open 4 of them if you need 4 free withdrawls per month or 6 if you need 6. No harm in asking.

Lol, I was thinking of doing something dumb like that, but I don't know if they would like me having 10+ accounts just milking the 1 transaction each. Would be awkward kind of opening all those accounts, probably get questioned. There is a thread on here about a guy with multiple accounts/cc's, apparently he ended up getting banned from the bank, HSBC I believe for having so many accounts. Probably trying to avoid fees, I don't want to be banned. Ya I probably will just end up going with the chequing account and eat the fees. Always worth a try on RFD to see if you can decrease or even avoid them.


ING perhaps?

TD Borderless for sure.

Cheapcanoehead is right about what I'm doing, USD paypal -> cash in hand in Canada, so unless an account can link, I'm basically stuck with RBC. TD would have been ideal since the min balance waive fee thing, but nobody has successfully linked yet. Looked at ING, still got the link problem, but you also need access to ING branded ATM to withdraw USD, not just any exchange ATM, and those are only located in big cities which I am not close to. So even if I could link to paypal, ING wouldn't work.

[angel_wing0]

yeah..guess u are sorta SOL then...

[brunes]

I take it halflife from your previous posts, and questions about linking up RBC E-Savings with paypal that you are using paypal just to transfer US dollars from a US bank to a Canadian based US dollar account. .

The best way to do this is, assuming eventually you want CAD, is with XETrade. Add a US $USD account to XE Trade, and a Canadian $CAD account. When you have money in your US account you want, go into XETrade and buy CAD with it, using EFT for both accounts. The transaction will take about 48 hours, and will be at a better rate than any of the banks will give you. And other than that, there is no additional fee.

I used to do this all the time (except the inverse... traded CAD to my US account) - until one day I goofed up and overdrew an account, so XE Trade locked my account. I have since been trying to get it un=locked for a year but their system is broken somehow, even though the rep says it is unlocked on their end, I still can't log in. I may try to open a brand new account, because I really like the service. It is a heck of a lot better than mailing $USD cheques around, which takes weeks. And it is a heck of a lot better than Paypal, which no matter what way you cut it is going to end up taking a big percentage along the line.

[halflife150]

ING perhaps?

TD Borderless for sure.


The best way to do this is, assuming eventually you want CAD, is with XETrade. Add a US $USD account to XE Trade, and a Canadian $CAD account. When you have money in your US account you want, go into XETrade and buy CAD with it, using EFT for both accounts. The transaction will take about 48 hours, and will be at a better rate than any of the banks will give you. And other than that, there is no additional fee.

I used to do this all the time (except the inverse... traded CAD to my US account) - until one day I goofed up and overdrew an account, so XE Trade locked my account. I have since been trying to get it un=locked for a year but their system is broken somehow, even though the rep says it is unlocked on their end, I still can't log in. I may try to open a brand new account, because I really like the service. It is a heck of a lot better than mailing $USD cheques around, which takes weeks. And it is a heck of a lot better than Paypal, which no matter what way you cut it is going to end up taking a big percentage along the line.

Straight USD, no USD to CAD conversion.

But on the topic of conversion, does anyone actually know what the fees are for xetrade or the spread? Kind of hard to compare without knowing that, seems most just assume it is better, but with exchange rates moving all the time, pretty hard to compare unless know the fees. Like banks/cc's most are the standard 2.5% which they state, what would XE be?

How come nobody ever suggests IB? I was looking at that the other day and their fee is only 1 pip, min $2.50, which even on a couple hundred is tiny. Unless I'm missing something, like you can't withdraw it, or some hidden extra fees, wouldn't this be the far better option of exchanging. I know about the minimum activity fee of $10, but looks like if you keep a 0 balance they just auto close the account so looks like you can avoid it. Ignoring the hassle of opening an account each time for exchanging, wouldn't this be the cheapest option by far?

[thinkpad]

Hi All,

I've gotten my RBC visa debit and trying to take out of my RBC embassy chequing(oops "checking") from a non RBC ATM in California. I know RBC credit's the non-RBC ATM fees for two transactions, but I suppose there is no way around the debit fee the local ATM wants to take out on top of the transaction here? (3USD on a Wells Fargo and an US Bank ATM)

Just wanted to be clear on my use in the US :)

Thanks, this thread is very informative!! *cheers*

[Jonavin]

Hi All,

I've gotten my RBC visa debit and trying to take out of my RBC embassy chequing(oops "checking") from a non RBC ATM in California. I know RBC credit's the non-RBC ATM fees for two transactions, but I suppose there is no way around the debit fee the local ATM wants to take out on top of the transaction here? (3USD on a Wells Fargo and an US Bank ATM)

Just wanted to be clear on my use in the US :)

Thanks, this thread is very informative!! *cheers*

Actually they refunded my $3 ATM fee from Bank Of America and will do the same for other banks. You can request through their online message center. No need to call.

[thinkpad]

Ahh that makes sense then. Bit of a pain to have to do it each time, but works out in the end.

thanks!


Actually they refunded my $3 ATM fee from Bank Of America and will do the same for other banks. You can request through their online message center. No need to call.

[larelr2003]

Actually they refunded my $3 ATM fee from Bank Of America and will do the same for other banks. You can request through their online message center. No need to call.

Early this year, RBC Bank automatically refunded $2 for each ATM withdrawal I made at non-RBC machines in the US southwest. The Star network ATM I used in Texas and the BOA ATM I used in Arizona charged $3 so I was out a dollar each on these. The two BOA ATMs I used in California charged $2 each. I did not call or contact them for the refund. The ATM Reimbursement amounts automatically showed up on my statements.

[nauru]

As has been said, the refund for competitor ATM fees is automatic as far as I know. You don't need to send a request.

[angel_wing0]

As has been said, the refund for competitor ATM fees is automatic as far as I know. You don't need to send a request.

+1, thats what been told to me as well.

[halflife150]

Nothing on the IB usage to currency exchange? Am I missing something, Brunes any input since you seem to exchange currency a bit.

[halflife150]

Does US have anything like EMT? The RBCBank website is kind of spartan, really can't find much on anything. It seems the only transfers to others US account holders is a domestic wire tranfer, which costs $30-40 when you include all outbound/inbound costs, not really practical for transferring small amounts. Seems like US banking stuck in the 19th century.

[angel_wing0]

cant believe i got bank statements from rbc bank, i already told that i only want online ones. Are they like TD Visa where they have to send u a paper statement?

[RX]

Had anybody been asked your Canadian SIN number when applying the RBC USA credit card? The RBC US rep insisted I have to surrender mine to be able to check my credit history. But I never gave my SIN out to my current credit card companies and they can still look into my credit history. And the Canadian gov website actually says the credit card issuers dont really need SIN for a credit card application.

Just wondering if it is a requirement for Canadian applicants of RBC USA credit card. Any help will be appreciated.

[Jonavin]

Had anybody been asked your Canadian SIN number when applying the RBC USA credit card? The RBC US rep insisted I have to surrender mine to be able to check my credit history. But I never gave my SIN out to my current credit card companies and they can still look into my credit history. And the Canadian gov website actually says the credit card issuers dont really need SIN for a credit card application.

Just wondering if it is a requirement for Canadian applicants of RBC USA credit card. Any help will be appreciated.

Don't recall ever being asked. They already have your SIN when you applied for the RBC Bank account through Royal Bank.

[TodayHello]

Had anybody been asked your Canadian SIN number when applying the RBC USA credit card? The RBC US rep insisted I have to surrender mine to be able to check my credit history. But I never gave my SIN out to my current credit card companies and they can still look into my credit history. And the Canadian gov website actually says the credit card issuers dont really need SIN for a credit card application.

Just wondering if it is a requirement for Canadian applicants of RBC USA credit card. Any help will be appreciated.

They can ask if the info you provided is not pulling up a credit bureau, or, if they believe something fraudulent can be occurring.

You can definitely refuse to provide it .... but they can also definitely refuse your application on the basis of the above (incomplete info to make a credit decision, possible fraud activity, etc.)

[RX]

Thanks a lot for your responses, Jonavin and TodayHello.

Actually My account manager just did my credit check in front of me with my consent during the Canadian side account open process. And she told me right after, I have already been pre-approved for a RBC Canada credit card... The thing is that I have never ever been banking with RBC and she didn't ask and doesn't have my SIN number till now...

This afternoon a rep from RBC US called me, said they understand if I dont feel comfortable to give the SIN through the phone, I could also go to a Canadian branch... Anyway, I will call my account manager after the holiday to find out.

[angel_wing0]

Had anybody been asked your Canadian SIN number when applying the RBC USA credit card? The RBC US rep insisted I have to surrender mine to be able to check my credit history. But I never gave my SIN out to my current credit card companies and they can still look into my credit history. And the Canadian gov website actually says the credit card issuers dont really need SIN for a credit card application.

Just wondering if it is a requirement for Canadian applicants of RBC USA credit card. Any help will be appreciated.

yes i have been asked.

[jyeung]

Does US have anything like EMT? The RBCBank website is kind of spartan, really can't find much on anything. It seems the only transfers to others US account holders is a domestic wire tranfer, which costs $30-40 when you include all outbound/inbound costs, not really practical for transferring small amounts. Seems like US banking stuck in the 19th century.

You should be able to directly use the "Pay Bills" feature of your bank to pay anyone - I have Bank of America, Chase, and HSBC and all of them can do this. Whether or not the payment is remitted electronically or via check is dependent on the recipient's relationship with your bank.

Alternatively, you can probably use a third party service like Chase QuickPay which is free. There is no single debit network encompassing all the banks like Interac in Canada - it's all regional and scattered.

- Jason

[JBlue]

Just got the borderless account. Anyone have experience with online money exchange? I want to exchange some CDN to USD then deposit to my new borderless account.

[angel_wing0]

Just got the borderless account. Anyone have experience with online money exchange? I want to exchange some CDN to USD then deposit to my new borderless account.

u mean thru td? payments & transfers -> foreign exchange.

[JBlue]

u mean thru td? payments & transfers -> foreign exchange.

Hi. I don't mean through TD Borderless account. I have seen some online US money exchange sites which have a slightly more favorable rate.

If not Borderless should have be the next best thing in terms of rates and no transaction fee. Do yo have any suggestions on getting USD into my TD Borderless account for the least cost and best rate? I wanted to get about 10k USD into the account. Thx

[angel_wing0]

Hi. I don't mean through TD Borderless account. I have seen some online US money exchange sites which have a slightly more favorable rate.

If not Borderless should have be the next best thing in terms of rates and no transaction fee. Do yo have any suggestions on getting USD into my TD Borderless account for the least cost and best rate? I wanted to get about 10k USD into the account. Thx

there are a few threads which talks about that, do a search in the finance forum (not this thread)~

[Gwyrthwr]

Even thou RBC USA was partially sold to PnC bank, it still provides the best solution for cross-border banking. A little bit tricky to link your Canadian RBC bank account to the US one but when that's done, rest is a piece of cake.

For opening an RBC Access One account (US Account), avoid small branches where people have no idea about this service. I went through a couple of them and got pretty much my time wasted every time. They even tried to sell me the US RBC visa card with the $65 fee. I went to the main branch here locally and scheduled an appointment with their manager. The lady was super, she knew what I want it and she contacted right away the RBC USA and was able to find all the documents/forms that I had to sign. As an advice, open an US dollar account at the RBC Canada (something without any monthly fee, they have one with just one transaction per month, which is fine). In a week, I've received a phone call from Melbourne, Florida, from the branch manager that asked me a couple of questions like my Canadian SIN and so on. After verifying a couple of things, she told me that my bank account got opened. She sent me an email with an application as pdf for a credit line and credit card. I've filled it in and scanned and replied in the same day. Two weeks later, I received my credit card. Did the same process for my wife, to apply for a credit card. She does not have RBC Canada or RBC USA accounts. Called RBC USA and requested to link my RBC Canada and RBC USA. Waited a month and received a letter with my security PIN number, to connect both of the accounts.

Got a couple of times to US and got a JCPenny store card. Had no problem in linking it to the RBC US account and pay it every time. Unfortunately I have to call every time when I want to pay my wife's credit card from my RBC USA account.

In Canada, we have our main accounts with a different bank. To deposit the money, I got the US cash from my day-to-day bank, went to RBC and deposit it to the RBC US account from RBC Canada. Then, went online and transferred the money from my Canadian RBC bank-US checking account to the RBC USA bank-checking account, very easy and it's an instant transfer.

I really liked my bank representative from Florida. She was easily accessible through email with prompt replies. In the worst case, it took her half a day to reply to my emails. It's sad that she had to move to PnC. :(

For TD, I would not recommend it for awhile. TD USA is not interconnected to TD Canada and they operate separately. It's like ING Russia and ING Canada. Different wolds (at least that's the answer I've got every time I raised this question). Yes, you can open a TD USA account, you have to go to US still. But to transfer the money between TD Canada and TD USA it's like transferring the money between TD Canada and Bank Of America. At least for the day-to-day mortals like me.

Bank Of Montreal-Harris Bank might be another solution, not very familiar with it. Is anybody using this approach? Last time I was investigating it, the BMO representative was trying to sell me a Canadian US dollar account with an Canadian US dollar credit card. I've stopped looking for BMO solution, pretty much because all my friends that do shopping in US, use the RBC Access One accounts.

Hope that helps,
G

[angel_wing0]

for TD, u can actually transfer money from the US to CDN one thru easyweb according to one of the TD reps who posted here.

[Gwyrthwr]

for TD, u can actually transfer money from the US to CDN one thru easyweb according to one of the TD reps who posted here.

If you are reffering to the post with the TD borderless account, it is operated by TD Canada Trust, Canadian bank. Yes, you can transfer funds into it, as you can do in any of the accounts that you have within a bank. They do offer a Canadian US dollar VISA too, with a US$25 fee (which can be waived upon some conditions).

I was more interested into US bank accounts for Canadians, offered by a US bank. Something that will allow you also a credit card which will help you build credit history. Currently TD does not offer any interconnection between their US sister and the Canadian side. According to them, they are currently aiming for the end of 2012 to have something for their financial services, but no plan in the near future for what RBC is currently having between RBC Canada and RBC USA.

Hope that helps,
G

[angel_wing0]

If you are reffering to the post with the TD borderless account, it is operated by TD Canada Trust, Canadian bank and it's just another US checking acount from a Canadian bank. Yes, you can transfer funds into it, as you can do in any of the accounts that you have within a bank. They do offer a Canadian US dollar VISA too, with a US$25 fee (which can be waived upon some conditions).

Currently TD does not offer any interconnection between their US sister and the Canadian side. According to them, they are currently aiming for the end of 2012 to have something for their financial services, but no plan in the near future for what RBC is currently having between RBC Canada and RBC USA.

Hope that helps,
G

No I am not, i m referring from TD Bank to TD Canada. They may not be offering complete integration, but they do allow u to send money from the two accounts thru easyweb. I am 100% sure as a TD rep has mentioned it in this thread.

[TD_Canada]

Hi there, it’s Jen from TD. I just wanted to clarify that wire transfers for $5000 or less between your TD Canada Trust account and an account with the same personal registration held with TD Bank in the US do need to be done by calling our North American Support Services area. Wire transfers in excess to this amount would need to be processed by your local TD Canada Trust branch. At this time, EasyWeb does not provide the option to do these transfers online. Thanks for your interest and I’m happy to forward your comments as feedback! Cheers. ^JC

[angel_wing0]

Hi All. It's Chris from TD. Just wanted to jump in and provide some info. TD Canada Trust customers can open accounts in the US at TD Bank, which will give them access to an account they can withdrawal from in the US, in US dollars, along with a debit card. You no longer need to be residing in the US to open the account. You can also fund the account via wire transfers through EasyLine of up to $5000.00 for free. The one caveat is that we'd need to set up an appointment for you at a TD Bank branch in the US as the account must be opened in person. It's a good option for frequent travelers. You can get more info by calling EasyLine at 1-866-222-3456, available 24/7. They can set up an appointment for you the next time you travel to an area in the US where there's a TD Bank. Hope that helps! ^CT

oh my bad it's easyline not easyweb! My fault indeed.

[thescud]

I want to offer my thanks to all involved in this thread. This has to be one of the most useful threads I've ever encountered on any forum site. By using the advice found within, I was able to acquire a US-based chequing account and credit card, which I will use to fund my ebay.com activities, sign up for Hulu and Netflix services, and for the occasional vacation. I'm even using XE Trade to save on FX charges.

Best. Thread. Ever. !

[brunes]

Hi there, it’s Jen from TD. I just wanted to clarify that wire transfers for $5000 or less between your TD Canada Trust account and an account with the same personal registration held with TD Bank in the US do need to be done by calling our North American Support Services area. Wire transfers in excess to this amount would need to be processed by your local TD Canada Trust branch. At this time, EasyWeb does not provide the option to do these transfers online. Thanks for your interest and I’m happy to forward your comments as feedback! Cheers. ^JC

Hi Jenn - can you please give more details on this, phone numbers perhaps? I have both a TD Bank USA account and a TD Canada Trust account with Select Service (and thus a Borderless USA account). In the past I have attempted to use this supposed no-cost wire transfer service through EasyLine, and was told that this was *only available for select, grandfathered accounts*.

If this is now available to everyone it is of great interest to me and I am sure many others, I am curious why it is not advertised at all on the US account section of the site? How do you go about it, is simply having the two account numbers on-hand all the information you need when you call EasyLine?

Thanks.

[TD_Canada]

Hi Jenn - can you please give more details on this, phone numbers perhaps? I have both a TD Bank USA account and a TD Canada Trust account with Select Service (and thus a Borderless USA account). In the past I have attempted to use this supposed no-cost wire transfer service through EasyLine, and was told that this was *only available for select, grandfathered accounts*.

If this is now available to everyone it is of great interest to me and I am sure many others, I am curious why it is not advertised at all on the US account section of the site? How do you go about it, is simply having the two account numbers on-hand all the information you need when you call EasyLine?

Thanks.

Hi Brunes. Not a problem :)

You can request a transfer from your TD Canada Trust account to your TD Bank account by calling EasyLine at 1-866-222-3456, available 24/7. The EasyLine rep will transfer you to a supervisor/resouce officer to complete the transfer. Both accounts must be personal accounts and be in your name. The wire requests cannot exceed $5000.00/day. Hope that helps you further! ^CT

[Tharnax]

I want to offer my thanks to all involved in this thread. This has to be one of the most useful threads I've ever encountered on any forum site. By using the advice found within, I was able to acquire a US-based chequing account and credit card, which I will use to fund my ebay.com activities, sign up for Hulu and Netflix services, and for the occasional vacation. I'm even using XE Trade to save on FX charges.

Best. Thread. Ever. !

Hi thescud, as you are a relatively new RFD account holder (July 2010), wouldn't mind some feedback on this thread as it's pretty old.
How easy was it for you to find the info you were looking for?
Did many of the original posts (first 10 pages or so) in the thread cause you any "confusion"?
It sounds like you went the RBC route are you willing to confirm?

A few pages back there was some discussion about "revisiting" this thread as a new thread with more recent information. As a new RFD user I was wondering if it's worth starting a new thread on this topic and letting this thread die once all the relevant information has been moved over. This is one of those threads where information can change year over year, if not more often. So it might be beneficial for newbies to have the most relevant information available in a "yearly" thread. I, and I'm sure others, don't necessarily want to create multiple threads on the same topic unless that thread provides additional clarity/ease of use that this thread may no longer have. Input appreciated!

[brunes]

Hi Brunes. Not a problem :)

You can request a transfer from your TD Canada Trust account to your TD Bank account by calling EasyLine at 1-866-222-3456, available 24/7. The EasyLine rep will transfer you to a supervisor/resouce officer to complete the transfer. Both accounts must be personal accounts and be in your name. The wire requests cannot exceed $5000.00/day. Hope that helps you further! ^CT

This is great, I will try this. Curious as to when this came into effect? You guys should really advertise this in the text for your Borderless account since it is a very big deal.

[angel_wing0]

Hi Brunes. Not a problem :)

You can request a transfer from your TD Canada Trust account to your TD Bank account by calling EasyLine at 1-866-222-3456, available 24/7. The EasyLine rep will transfer you to a supervisor/resouce officer to complete the transfer. Both accounts must be personal accounts and be in your name. The wire requests cannot exceed $5000.00/day. Hope that helps you further! ^CT

Hi CT, would TD Canada account holders be able to open TD Bank accounts thru TD Canada branches anytime soon? (just like the RBC setup)

[TD_Canada]

Hi angel_wing0 and brunes, Jen again. Our North American Support service is a relatively new service for TD Canada Trust and TD Bank AMCB customers. As a TD Canada Trust customer, it would be necessary to visit a TD AMCB store to open up a TD Bank AMCB bank account. The option to open one of these accounts at a TD Canada Trust branch is not yet available. The next time you plan on travelling to the US, please feel free to contact TD AMCB Customer Support directly at 1-888-751-9000 and a representative would be happy to schedule you an appointment at a TD Bank AMCB store of your choice. Thanks everyone! Cheers! ^JC

[angel_wing0]

Hi angel_wing0 and brunes, Jen again. Our North American Support service is a relatively new service for TD Canada Trust and TD Bank AMCB customers. As a TD Canada Trust customer, it would be necessary to visit a TD AMCB store to open up a TD Bank AMCB bank account. The option to open one of these accounts at a TD Canada Trust branch is not yet available. The next time you plan on travelling to the US, please feel free to contact TD AMCB Customer Support directly at 1-888-751-9000 and a representative would be happy to schedule you an appointment at a TD Bank AMCB store of your choice. Thanks everyone! Cheers! ^JC

ic thanks, i will wait till that option is available then as it sounds like it will be indeed coming at a later time...

[thinkpad]

According to the transition documents on the RBC site, there is no longer the 2.95 monthly fee waived for $700 minimum balance in the RBC Access USA accounts (As of 17th Feb 2012). Even if you had Free Checking account with RBC USA they will transition everyone to Embassy Checking Account which will charge the $2.95.

I'll explore other options once my credit is built up in the US through this RBC transitioned RBC/PNC.

[Jonavin]

According to the transition documents on the RBC site, there is no longer the 2.95 monthly fee waived for $700 minimum balance in the RBC Access USA accounts (As of 17th Feb 2012). Even if you had Free Checking account with RBC USA they will transition everyone to Embassy Checking Account which will charge the $2.95.

I'll explore other options once my credit is built up in the US through this RBC transitioned RBC/PNC.

I just read the docs and you are right. They are making it sound like they are doing you a favour by not having to check your monthly balance, but everyone is getting charged $2.95 and +$1 more if you want paper statements.

This is not good. No more no fee US bank account from RBC.

[angel_wing0]

According to the transition documents on the RBC site, there is no longer the 2.95 monthly fee waived for $700 minimum balance in the RBC Access USA accounts (As of 17th Feb 2012). Even if you had Free Checking account with RBC USA they will transition everyone to Embassy Checking Account which will charge the $2.95.

I'll explore other options once my credit is built up in the US through this RBC transitioned RBC/PNC.

HOLY that REALLY sucks.

For everyone wondering, here is the link to the transition guide (page 6 of 11 for the fee): http://www.rbcbankusa.com/file-619435.pdf

I am going to close my account after i receive my new debit/credit cards and cheques in early feb. One pissed off person here tbh.

[Jonavin]

HOLY that REALLY sucks.

For everyone wondering, here is the link to the transition guide (page 6 of 11 for the fee): http://www.rbcbankusa.com/file-619435.pdf

I am going to close my account after i receive my new debit/credit cards and cheques in early feb. One pissed off person here tbh.

Don't like the road they're going. The credit cards might stat getting charged a fee as well. I am out. Let's the get the old RFD thread rolling on alternatives.

[thescud]

Hi thescud, as you are a relatively new RFD account holder (July 2010), wouldn't mind some feedback on this thread as it's pretty old.
How easy was it for you to find the info you were looking for?

I have to admit that while the overall thread was helpful, I had to plow through a lot of extraneous posts to find the information that I needed. Hands down, the single best post in the entire thread is yours from Oct '11 on page 11. I bookmarked that page and returned to it numerous times as I was going through the process. I agree that it would be helpful to have a more concise thread that lists the various options available and the steps required.

I did go the RBC route. I'm a little dismayed to read the news that they are eliminating the no-fee account option. That is one of the reasons I selected RBC. I'll be looking for alternatives now, also. Perhaps someone can post a link to the thread referenced in Jonavin's post.

[angel_wing0]

Here:


HOLY that REALLY sucks.

For everyone wondering, here is the link to the transition guide (page 6 of 11 for the fee): http://www.rbcbankusa.com/file-619435.pdf

I am going to close my account after i receive my new debit/credit cards and cheques in early feb. One pissed off person here tbh.

[urbanlights]

can i open an rbc usa account, get the credit card and then close all the accounts and keep the credit card? i have a BoA account which holds most of my US currency, and i dont want to bother with all this RBC Access usa mumbo jumbo.

also, where does it say the credit cards will also start charging an access fee?

RY

[cheapcanoehead]

Man, that's bad news. Typical of RBC to ruin a great product, they've done it so often in the past that I'm not surprised. I guess I'll wait for the credit card to come and then just close the chequing account. I wonder if RBC will let us keep the no fee credit card account open if we aren't paying fees through the chequing account. It will be interesting to see. Don't really need the chequing account as I have a better one opened previously when I was in the States, but I'd hate to lose the credit card.

[twoplustwo]

That's just great. I have an appointment to open this account with RBC tomorrow! Do I show, or no show.. Hmmmmm

[angel_wing0]

That's just great. I have an appointment to open this account with RBC tomorrow! Do I show, or no show.. Hmmmmm

cancel the appointment, no point now really.

[Jonavin]

also, where does it say the credit cards will also start charging an access fee?

RY

it doesn't. I was just speculating.

[angel_wing0]

Man, that's bad news. Typical of RBC to ruin a great product, they've done it so often in the past that I'm not surprised. I guess I'll wait for the credit card to come and then just close the chequing account. I wonder if RBC will let us keep the no fee credit card account open if we aren't paying fees through the chequing account. It will be interesting to see. Don't really need the chequing account as I have a better one opened previously when I was in the States, but I'd hate to lose the credit card.

the credit card is completely unrelated to the chequing account afaik, so dont worry about the fees unless RBC does something to it later.

[twoplustwo]

That's just great. I have an appointment to open this account with RBC tomorrow! Do I show, or no show.. Hmmmmm


cancel the appointment, no point now really.

Yeah, I canceled. Way to go RBC, you just lost a customer.

[mc_molineux]

I disagree that there is now no point to this account.

Yeah the fee sucks, but what's the alternative for those of us who want to easily move money between Canadian and US accounts? I'm sure I'll be able to save at least $36 annually by being able to time my foreign exchange activities between the accounts instead of being forced to take the rate at the time of purchase.

I'll be sticking with this until something better comes along. The $700 in a 3% TFSA nets $21 annually anyway, so the net difference is actually $15 when counting the opportunity cost of having the money tied up.

[Tharnax]

I just read the good news..... :facepalm: Ridiculous!!!! I'm going to back to updated my long post to put a disclaimer that there will now be a monthly charge of $2.95 to maintain the account.

As to what I'm going to do personally, I'm not sure yet. I've already been able to save well over 10 years worth of monthly fees since I got the account and credit cards setup but really that isn't the point. Slapping a $2.95 fee on all customers knowing full well that Canadian's don't have a lot of choice in this department, especially one that can be setup relatively easily from this side of the boarder and works great for all CC purchases where your credit card would have normally been rejected. It also works great for all the US based services, Netflix, Hulu, Rapsody, etc, which aren't available in Canada and avoids any hassles of whether you are in based in Canada or not.

I hate bank fees with a passion and I've avoid paying bank and CC fees since 1999 and it urks me to know end to have to start paying a fee for a US account where many US bank accounts, which I cannot use, have no banking fees. But then I have to look at the other side of the coin. If I cancel basically there goes the perfect way to handle all my cross-boarder shopping. Errrrrrr!!!!!!

Unfortunately, I hate to say it as a RFD member but I'm going to pay their stupid $2.95 fee until I can setup something equivalent or better. When I do, I'll be sure to document the process. :D

[Tharnax]

I have to admit that while the overall thread was helpful, I had to plow through a lot of extraneous posts to find the information that I needed. Hands down, the single best post in the entire thread is yours from Oct '11 on page 11. I bookmarked that page and returned to it numerous times as I was going through the process. I agree that it would be helpful to have a more concise thread that lists the various options available and the steps required.

Thanks for the feedback. Was happy to post it up as I know how difficult it is to find "correct" information on this. Too many avenues steer you towards a Canadian based US$ visa card which will be rejected by a number of merchants in the US.



I did go the RBC route. I'm a little dismayed to read the news that they are eliminating the no-fee account option. That is one of the reasons I selected RBC. I'll be looking for alternatives now, also. Perhaps someone can post a link to the thread referenced in Jonavin's post.

Very disappointed as you can tell from my post above. Goes to show how in this "space" information can quickly become irrelevant or false.

[hobgoblins]

Very unimpressed with RBC right now. I received first word of this today, via a phone call at lunch. I'd love to know why the branches don't have a 1-800 number, but I digress. I don't know whether or not I will close my account now, I suppose I really have no choice seeing as I will be traveling to the states at least once a year and the dollar can be fickle at booking time. Hopefully there's a way to switch to another bank..

[Jonavin]

Maybe if TD and BMO stepped Una nd make it easier to transfer money bwteen US and Canadian accounts there would be an alternative, but for now it looks like those of us who wants the convienance of cross-border transfers will have to pay a $2.99/month fee.

[Dealll]

Personally, I don't see any need in US-based chequing account.
I use my Nordstrom VISA for purchases in USD and pay my bills from TD USD account.
No online payment option, so I send a cheque.
My only expense is a stamp to US - ($1.05+HST I believe) once a month, when I have a balance to pay. Sometimes I send it from US, then it costs only $0.44.

[rebel2232]

For some, the account changes may not be worth the monthly fee. For others like myself the added features to the account are more than welcomed, even with a small monthly fee.

For my USD rent cheques I won't have to ever step into a bank again to cash them (saving me gas and time)....the monthly fee will be a write off on my taxes....my HOA fee are automatically withdrawn from my US account....property taxes easily paid online....my FREE USD Visa is also easily paid (no late payments due to Canada Post/USPS delays)....no more minimum balance needed....and of course free cheques.

For the small monthly fee you do get quite a number of features. What Canadian bank offers anything similar? None.

[Tilter]

So now that RBC is implementing the $3/month fee, there isn't much of a need for the account. Previously it was useful to have a way to transfer USD Paypal to that account, but I've stopped that now. What's the easiest way for me to transfer the funds from RBC to BMO?


Personally, I don't see any need in US-based chequing account.
I use my Nordstrom VISA for purchases in USD and pay my bills from TD USD account.
No online payment option, so I send a cheque.
My only expense is a stamp to US - ($1.05+HST I believe) once a month, when I have a balance to pay. Sometimes I send it from US, then it costs only $0.44.

BMO US account has online transfer.

[nauru]

Funny that we were all so afraid PNC would buy out RBC USA and end the best product RBC has. In the end it was actually RBC who wrecked it themselves.

Meanwhile at PNC, all clients get checking accounts with no minimum balance and no monthly fees.

https://www.pnc.com/webapp/unsec/Blank.do?siteArea=/pnccorp/pnc/home/personal/checking/checking+overview

I wish PNC would just buy out all of RBC including 100% of the Canadian operations, and bring 1st world banking to backwards Canada.

[nauru]

This is apparently the greatest bank account in America for expatriates, heavy travellers, and occasional visitors to the land of the free. Naturally, it's free. You can withdraw money from any ATM in the world for free as Schwab will not charge a fee for this, and will reimburse you for any fees charged by the ATM owner an unlimited number of times.

http://www.schwab.com/public/schwab/banking_lending/checking_account

Monthly service fees: $0
Account minimum: $0
Unlimited rebates from any ATM worldwide
A 0.15% variable interest rate on any balance
Free standard checks and a Visa® Platinum debit card
FDIC insurance up to $250,000
A linked Schwab One® brokerage account with no fees or minimums

If anyone figures out how to get this account as a non-US person, and I'm able to replicate the process myself and get this account, I will actually pay that person a cash reward. I have a US address but no social security number so this would require some ingenuity -- hence the reward.

[mc_molineux]

I wish PNC would just buy out all of RBC including 100% of the Canadian operations, and bring 1st world banking to backwards Canada.
But then how would we be able to link it to the online banking of a Canadian bank for cross-border transfers, which is the main benefit of this RBC USA account?

Yes, lots of US banks offer free everything. But they don't offer the integration that RBC does.

[cheapcanoehead]

Nauru I like your spirit.

If you want that Schwab account I wouldn't ask many questions. Just get them to send the application to your US address. Fill it out send them your passport, driver's license and all that along with cheque to open the account. Sometimes when paperwork comes in and clerks aren't sure whether it's acceptable or not, it will get passed from person to person. It often ends up in the hands of someone that's been there for a long time and they often know the process of how to get the account approved. (Or they know how to embellish and/or manipulate the computer to get the thing through and approved.) Don't think this is worthy of cash reward so even if it works save your money, free advice.

I'm going to go back do what I did before I opened the RBC Centura US account. I have a Scotia US account and an RBC US E-Savings account. I'll get a bank draft or money order from Scotia and mail it to my other bank in the US. Bank drafts/money orders are free with this Scotia account, (must keep 200$ US in it to avoid monthly fee) so the only cost I'll have is the postage and envelope. I'd probably only need to send funds cross border 3 or 4 times a year so this is much better than paying $35.40 in bank fees every year. Yes, it's not instantaneous, it will take a week or so in the mail but I'm never in that big a panic anyway. I will close my RBC account, but keep the credit card. If I'm going the other way (moving US currency from the bank in the US back to Canada) I'll use transfer from US bank to Paypal. Wait 3 or 4 days for money to be available in Paypal then transfer from paypal to RBC US E-Savings.

X-Etrade works as well and faster but exchange rate isn't as good as I can get elsewhere

[nauru]

But then how would we be able to link it to the online banking of a Canadian bank for cross-border transfers, which is the main benefit of this RBC USA account?

Yes, lots of US banks offer free everything. But they don't offer the integration that RBC does.

Because in my ideal world, PNC would buy all of RBC, including all the Canadian branches, all the Canadian office buildings, all the Canadian business lines -- in addition to RBC's US operations. So the integration would be there. The big 5 banks in Canada would be PNC, BMO, TD, CIBC and Scotia. The RBC brand would cease to exist and would be completely replaced with PNC. Since PNC executives and managers know how to make money without charging monthly fees on checking accounts (ie by lending money at a higher rate than they borrow money; in other words, traditional banking) and Canadians apparently don't, PNC could get rid of the Canadian managers who haven't figured it out. Or maybe teach the ones who have a good aptitude for first world banking. In any case, the Canadian retail banking industry would finally be brought up to speed with the developed world.

[october88]

So now that RBC is implementing the $3/month fee, there isn't much of a need for the account. Previously it was useful to have a way to transfer USD Paypal to that account, but I've stopped that now. What's the easiest way for me to transfer the funds from RBC to BMO?



BMO US account has online transfer.

I thought even with that RBC account, you still couldn't make the transfer of paypal USD balance?
If i remember correctly, the account # or whichever # it is, just wouldn't work with a Canadian bank and the transfer gets rejected

Thanks for the info

[rebel2232]

I thought even with that RBC account, you still couldn't make the transfer of paypal USD balance?
If i remember correctly, the account # or whichever # it is, just wouldn't work with a Canadian bank and the transfer gets rejected

Thanks for the info

Correct for a Canadian USD account, but with the RBC USA account you can transfer funds from Paypal. I do it all the time.

[Tharnax]

Correct for a Canadian USD account, but with the RBC USA account you can transfer funds from Paypal. I do it all the time.

Confirmed, I do the same. I have a CDN paypal for purchases in CDN $ no currency exchanges and I have a completely US$ paypal where I pay no exchange fees to purchase US goods from US retailers.

We bought $9500 worth of goods in December, a Canadian non-resident picked up the packages and declared everything. Due to the number of receipts customs agent gave 100 items a $20 tax exemption so only paid GST or 5% on $7500 worth of goods or $375 in taxes. Of the items that are for sale in Canada, the cost would have been well over $13000 * HST for them (non-resident or resident you pay 13% in Ontario) or $1700 in taxes so taxes alone was a savings of $1325. This doesn't consider that in the US all the items were picked up at one location so no driving around sourcing all the different items. Most if not all items were shipped for free in the US this is rarely available in Canada. Finally, most, if not all, had no state taxes added to the purchase price. This is becoming more difficult as New York state tax now includes online distributes who advertise in New York state must charge sales tax, so for example all Amazon purchase now charge 8% state taxes but there are ways around it, such as price matching with an online retail distributor who doesn't advertise in New York. A little more work but it all can be done from the comfort of the couch. ;)

[cool canuck]

I disagree that there is now no point to this account.

Yeah the fee sucks, but what's the alternative for those of us who want to easily move money between Canadian and US accounts? I'm sure I'll be able to save at least $36 annually by being able to time my foreign exchange activities between the accounts instead of being forced to take the rate at the time of purchase.

I'll be sticking with this until something better comes along. The $700 in a 3% TFSA nets $21 annually anyway, so the net difference is actually $15 when counting the opportunity cost of having the money tied up.

If all you're doing is timing your fx activities then any Canadian based USD credit card will do. I used to have the RBC Canada USD Gold Visa and always paid it off at the branch in USD cash which was purchased when the dollar was better than par. The reason for me sticking with RBC is the RBC Bank USA Platinum Visa which is a US based credit card.

[theBeachBoy]

This is apparently the greatest bank account in America for expatriates, heavy travellers, and occasional visitors to the land of the free. Naturally, it's free. You can withdraw money from any ATM in the world for free as Schwab will not charge a fee for this, and will reimburse you for any fees charged by the ATM owner an unlimited number of times.

http://www.schwab.com/public/schwab/banking_lending/checking_account

Monthly service fees: $0
Account minimum: $0
Unlimited rebates from any ATM worldwide
A 0.15% variable interest rate on any balance
Free standard checks and a Visa® Platinum debit card
FDIC insurance up to $250,000
A linked Schwab One® brokerage account with no fees or minimums

If anyone figures out how to get this account as a non-US person, and I'm able to replicate the process myself and get this account, I will actually pay that person a cash reward. I have a US address but no social security number so this would require some ingenuity -- hence the reward.

I'll take a look. I have opened my Capital One Direct Banking account in the states (I have US address and SSN but driver's licence and passport from Canada).. it wasn't that easy with Capital One, I got a few calls but ended up working it out (had to send my utility bill).

My Capital One account is the same, zero fees, free ATM withdrawal. Only thing that sucks is I have to mail checks to them so I cannot do cash deposits... I use xetrade when transferring CAD.

[angel_wing0]

Just got the rbc bank transition package...*throw*

[majesus]

Just got the rbc bank transition package...*throw*

LOL, yeah me too. Just came online to find out what's been talked about this. $3 a month for something I use to get for free...Throw.

[mc_molineux]

If all you're doing is timing your fx activities then any Canadian based USD credit card will do. I used to have the RBC Canada USD Gold Visa and always paid it off at the branch in USD cash which was purchased when the dollar was better than par. The reason for me sticking with RBC is the RBC Bank USA Platinum Visa which is a US based credit card.
Yeah true. The key for me though was the free ATM withdrawals and the actual US based Visa, like you say. The Visa is very good for US Paypal and those online stores that don't accept Canadian credit cards.

If someone could figure out a way to pay the US Platinum Visa from the US E-savings account on the Canadian side then the $3 a month account could be closed.

[brunes]

This is great, I will try this. Curious as to when this came into effect? You guys should really advertise this in the text for your Borderless account since it is a very big deal.

Wanted to report back. Did this TODAY, worked great. However, FYI you should not call EasyLine. There is a DEDICATED phone line to do this, and it is SUPER FAST if you dial it direct. If you dial EasyLine they will just forward you to this number anyway.

TD Bank North American Support - 1-877-700-2913

They will need to know

- Account coming from
- Account # of the TD Bank USA account
- Branch it is held at (address)

When you call it takes a few minutes to "set up" for you frist transfer. But the rep. told me all the info is saved and the next time it will be very quick.

[mc_molineux]

Has anyone who has registered an American alternate address on their US RBC Visa been able to add the Visa to US Paypal? I tried it using my US alternate address and it says it can't verify the card with the address.

[twoplustwo]

That's just great. I have an appointment to open this account with RBC tomorrow! Do I show, or no show.. Hmmmmm


cancel the appointment, no point now really.


Yeah, I canceled. Way to go RBC, you just lost a customer.

I'm having second thoughts. This account might actually be very handy, fees or no fees.

I do a lot of Ebay buying and selling (in USD), and I read a few instances in this thread where someone was able to setup a totally separate Paypal account, and then linked that Paypal account to their RBC Access USA account. Can someone who was successful with this please post a detailed step by step? I hope there's no need for a US mailing address to make this happen.......

[mc_molineux]

I'm having second thoughts. This account might actually be very handy, fees or no fees.

I do a lot of Ebay buying and selling (in USD), and I read a few instances in this thread where someone was able to setup a totally separate Paypal account, and then linked that Paypal account to their RBC Access USA account. Can someone who was successful with this please post a detailed step by step? I hope there's no need for a US mailing address to make this happen.......

I have set up a US Paypal account, completely separate from my Canadian one, and linked it to my RBC account. As I noted above though, I can't get the Visa to link yet.

But yes, you need a US address.

There isn't really much to detail. Go to Paypal.com. Create a new account with a new email address. Here you will also have to enter your US address. Then proceed to add a bank account and/or Visa.

[Shawguy]

While I agree with the frugal people on this board that RBC's new $2.95 fee sucks because I was getting the account for free... I think for $35.40/year or 9.6 cents per day I will keep this account as it still has tons of benefits like a FREE Real US VISA, and free US dollar real cheques. There are more things in life to complain about than $35.40.

[mc_molineux]

While I agree with the frugal people on this board that RBC's new $2.95 fee sucks because I was getting the account for free... I think for $35.40/year or 9.6 cents per day I will keep this account as it still has tons of benefits like a FREE Real US VISA, and free US dollar real cheques. There are more things in life to complain about than $35.40.

Do we know if they are still going to be charging shipping on the cheques to Canada?

[twoplustwo]

I'm having second thoughts. This account might actually be very handy, fees or no fees.

I do a lot of Ebay buying and selling (in USD), and I read a few instances in this thread where someone was able to setup a totally separate Paypal account, and then linked that Paypal account to their RBC Access USA account. Can someone who was successful with this please post a detailed step by step? I hope there's no need for a US mailing address to make this happen.......


I have set up a US Paypal account, completely separate from my Canadian one, and linked it to my RBC account. As I noted above though, I can't get the Visa to link yet.

But yes, you need a US address.

There isn't really much to detail. Go to Paypal.com. Create a new account with a new email address. Here you will also have to enter your US address. Then proceed to add a bank account and/or Visa.


Thank you for reply.. I'm curious though, once you open the Paypal account with a USA mailing address, if their system would allow you to change it to a Canadian mailing address at some point in the future (Hey Paypal, I moved!), yet retain the USA bank info

[majesus]

Wanted to report back. Did this TODAY, worked great. However, FYI you should not call EasyLine. There is a DEDICATED phone line to do this, and it is SUPER FAST if you dial it direct. If you dial EasyLine they will just forward you to this number anyway.

TD Bank North American Support - 1-877-700-2913

They will need to know

- Account coming from
- Account # of the TD Bank USA account
- Branch it is held at (address)

When you call it takes a few minutes to "set up" for you frist transfer. But the rep. told me all the info is saved and the next time it will be very quick.

Nice one Brunes, do you know if TD Bank will let you open an account at TD USA from here in Canada? Some of us don't have a TD USA bank nearby to walk in and personally apply.

[Tilter]

I'm having second thoughts. This account might actually be very handy, fees or no fees.

I do a lot of Ebay buying and selling (in USD), and I read a few instances in this thread where someone was able to setup a totally separate Paypal account, and then linked that Paypal account to their RBC Access USA account. Can someone who was successful with this please post a detailed step by step? I hope there's no need for a US mailing address to make this happen.......

Very useful for Paypal withdrawals to keep them in USD. Google RBC USD Paypal and you'll find all the info you need to get the account set up. Withdrawal take 3 business days before they show up.

I also never put a US Address on it. My account was always a Canadian address but I added a "US Bank" - RBC

Found the link - http://bradt.ca/archives/transfer-from-paypal-to-a-us-dollar-account-at-a-canadian-bank/

[nauru]

Very useful for Paypal withdrawals to keep them in USD. Google RBC USD Paypal and you'll find all the info you need to get the account set up. Withdrawal take 3 business days before they show up.

I also never put a US Address on it. My account was always a Canadian address but I added a "US Bank" - RBC

Found the link - http://bradt.ca/archives/transfer-from-paypal-to-a-us-dollar-account-at-a-canadian-bank/

I have RBC USA set up this way. Actually the only reason I got the account was for ebay and to handle my USD-based brokerage account, in order to avoid losing a penny on exchange rates. I hardly ever visit the US in person.

The $3 per month thing is a huge pain. Everything was set up perfectly, working smooth with no issues for a couple of years now. But now I may have to reorganize some things; either that or flush $36 down the toilet every new years day, indefinitely.

[brunes]

Nice one Brunes, do you know if TD Bank will let you open an account at TD USA from here in Canada? Some of us don't have a TD USA bank nearby to walk in and personally apply.

I am not sure really. I have had mine for a long time. @TD_Canada indicated in a previous post it had to be opened in person I believe. I know it is a very easy process - call and make an appt. and it takes maybe 15 mins in the branch with your passport. You keep $100 minimum in the account and it is no fee.

[twoplustwo]

Very useful for Paypal withdrawals to keep them in USD. Google RBC USD Paypal and you'll find all the info you need to get the account set up. Withdrawal take 3 business days before they show up.

I also never put a US Address on it. My account was always a Canadian address but I added a "US Bank" - RBC

Found the link - http://bradt.ca/archives/transfer-from-paypal-to-a-us-dollar-account-at-a-canadian-bank/

I already have an RBC "US High Interest eSavings" account, so I'll give this a try. Thanks!

[angel_wing0]

Nice one Brunes, do you know if TD Bank will let you open an account at TD USA from here in Canada? Some of us don't have a TD USA bank nearby to walk in and personally apply.
no they wont. You will have to book an appointment at a TD Bank branch and go in person.

[Vasyl]

no they wont. You will have to book an appointment at a TD Bank branch and go in person.

Do TD have a free chequing account? I cannot see anything on their website. Help is very much appreciated.

[brunes]

Do TD have a free chequing account? I cannot see anything on their website. Help is very much appreciated.

Are you talking about TD USA? If so then if you keep $100 in it and convenience chequing is no fee.

If you are talking about TDCT, then get Select Service.

[angel_wing0]

Do TD have a free chequing account? I cannot see anything on their website. Help is very much appreciated.

brunes is right: http://www.tdbank.com/personal/CheckingDetails_f.html

[Vasyl]

Are you talking about TD USA? If so then if you keep $100 in it and convenience chequing is no fee.

If you are talking about TDCT, then get Select Service.

Thanks. As I understand, it is not a "free" account, but all fees are waived when you keep a balance of $100. Not bad. BoA wants $750.

[siiix]

when i lived in the US bank of america was able to open checking account with out a social security number, at least in California for sure, call and ask them if they still have that

i still have my account, if they still have that account type you electronically transfer money its FREE ($240/mo minimum in a single transaction), comes with visa debit and unlimited transactions... with out deposit its $12/mo

as a tip you can use your paypal account to transfer money, its counts as direct deposit

[siiix]

Thank you for reply.. I'm curious though, once you open the Paypal account with a USA mailing address, if their system would allow you to change it to a Canadian mailing address at some point in the future (Hey Paypal, I moved!), yet retain the USA bank info

you can call, or you can ask a US friend for mailing address, or open a mailbox (private , not P.O box)

i keept a los angeles mailbox for such reasons for 10 years, then just call the place and they forward your mail to Canada once in a while (mail like your visa/ms debit card)
mail boxes are about $10/mo if you pay yearly

[brunes]

Thanks. As I understand, it is not a "free" account, but all fees are waived when you keep a balance of $100. Not bad. BoA wants $750.

Yeah, it is "OK". Better than most Canadian banks anyway.

It used to be entirely no-fee, they introduced this minimum balance in 2010 IIRC.

[majesus]

Acknowledged. Thanks guys.


I am not sure really. I have had mine for a long time. @TD_Canada indicated in a previous post it had to be opened in person I believe. I know it is a very easy process - call and make an appt. and it takes maybe 15 mins in the branch with your passport. You keep $100 minimum in the account and it is no fee.


no they wont. You will have to book an appointment at a TD Bank branch and go in person.

[Tharnax]

Has anyone who has registered an American alternate address on their US RBC Visa been able to add the Visa to US Paypal? I tried it using my US alternate address and it says it can't verify the card with the address.

Yes, although I had to change my US address to my primary address. Once that was completed I was able to setup the US Visa with US paypal no issues it even works with the iPhone paypal app. I've since changed my primary address back and I'm able to order stuff online using Visa through Paypal with no issues.

My only issue right now is I have some shipments that are sent to Miami and some that are sent to Buffalo. As it was the Buffalo address I setup with the VISA it works perfectly fine for new purchases that are being shipped there. Unfortunately, if I try to use paypal to purchase something and ship it to Miami US Paypal won't let me do it.

However, with CA Paypal I can purchase an item using a CC and have it ship to an alternate address either Miami or Buffalo. It's very strange. It's like Paypal is saying if you use your Canadian CC for the purchase and we get the exchange fee then you can ship the item where ever you want. But the exact setup using the US Paypal won't let me ship anywhere else but Buffalo when using my US Visa. :facepalm:

[angel_wing0]

Yeah, it is "OK". Better than most Canadian banks anyway.

It used to be entirely no-fee, they introduced this minimum balance in 2010 IIRC.

well for $100 i really dont mind...i mean rbc is at 700+!

[mc_molineux]

Yes, although I had to change my US address to my primary address. Once that was completed I was able to setup the US Visa with US paypal no issues it even works with the iPhone paypal app. I've since changed my primary address back and I'm able to order stuff online using Visa through Paypal with no issues.
Thanks for the reply. Good idea, to change it and then change back. I don't want any Visa mail going to that US address, but if I changed it only long enough to add the address to Paypal, that shouldn't be a problem. Thanks for the suggestion!

[angel_wing0]

Thanks for the reply. Good idea, to change it and then change back. I don't want any Visa mail going to that US address, but if I changed it only long enough to add the address to Paypal, that shouldn't be a problem. Thanks for the suggestion!

yip, i do the same thing as well and it works great *thumbs up*

[el_cid]

So to summarize,

The TD Bank USA Chequing account:

- is independent of TDCT select service (that is, the US account you receive with select service is not a true US-based account)
- has no fees if you hold a balance of $100 USD
- has free USD cheques and bill pay, etc as per website

However,

- you have to set up an appointment at a Canadian TD branch and go down to a US TD branch to set it up in person, you can't mail the forms to the US as you could with RBC Bank USA
- you can't have seamless online transfers between Canadian TD US bank accounts and US TD Bank accounts with Easyweb, as you could with RBC Bank USA; instead you have to use telephone banking

For RBC Bank USA customers:

What i'm also wondering is if you close your RBC Bank USA Free Chequing account, if you will still be able to log-on to see your RBC US Platinum credit card activity? Usually by the time I receive my statements from the US, the bill is almost due or past due. It's nice to be able to pay it well ahead of time via online banking. I assume if I do have access it should be straightforward to pay the bill via my US TD Bank account (when I get around to setting it up)?

[dvst8r]

So to summarize,

For RBC Bank USA customers:

What i'm also wondering is if you close your RBC Bank USA Free Chequing account, if you will still be able to log-on to see your RBC US Platinum credit card activity? Usually by the time I receive my statements from the US, the bill is almost due or past due. It's nice to be able to pay it well ahead of time via online banking. I assume if I do have access it should be straightforward to pay the bill via my US TD Bank account (when I get around to setting it up)?

I'm not sure if you'd be able to pay it from your Canadian RBC Royal Bank Account as I've been unable to add RBC Bank as a payee and no where have I seen from the RBC Royal side a way to send directly to the US Visa account - only the Chequings.

So if anyone has an idea on how to pay it after cancelling the Chequings (other than opening another US account somewhere), can they please post directions.

[angel_wing0]

I'm not sure if you'd be able to pay it from your Canadian RBC Royal Bank Account as I've been unable to add RBC Bank as a payee and no where have I seen from the RBC Royal side a way to send directly to the US Visa account - only the Chequings.

So if anyone has an idea on how to pay it after cancelling the Chequings (other than opening another US account somewhere), can they please post directions.

Mail. Sad, but true.

[Shawguy]

Got my new debit card in the mail today

[mc_molineux]

Got my new debit card in the mail today

Me too. Terrible design. You might as well have a big sign on your forehead for when you're in the states that says "HEY, I'M A CANADIAN", as that's what your card will say every time you give it to a cashier.

[halflife150]

Me too. Terrible design. You might as well have a big sign on your forehead for when you're in the states that says "HEY, I'M A CANADIAN", as that's what your card will say every time you give it to a cashier.

+1 Lol thought the exact same thing when I first got the card. Outside the US not so bad if people know your Canadian, but inside US, I'd rather look like everyone else. But not a bid deal since would use the CC instead, hopefully that design is much better.

[Jonavin]

Got my debit card and I agree about the design. It's terrible. Also received the new cheques.. .er, checks. Their design is just as terrible. No cost for shipping to Canada as far as I can tell.

[angel_wing0]

got my card a few days ago. I don't like the design as well but since I am cancelling the account next week, who cares.

[majesus]

I got my Debit Visa today. I agree, ugly face design. http://forums.redflagdeals.com/images/icons/new/thread-thumbsdown-32.png

[Vasyl]

got my card a few days ago. I don't like the design as well but since I am cancelling the account next week, who cares.

+1

[mc_molineux]

got my card a few days ago. I don't like the design as well but since I am cancelling the account next week, who cares.

Have you decided what you will be replacing it with?

[angel_wing0]

Have you decided what you will be replacing it with?

probably TD, when i have a chance to go down the states.

[angel_wing0]

Got my debit card and I agree about the design. It's terrible. Also received the new cheques.. .er, checks. Their design is just as terrible. No cost for shipping to Canada as far as I can tell.

hmmm, havent my cheques/checks yet...

[Vasyl]

probably TD, when i have a chance to go down the states.

Yet again, +1. I do not mind putting $100 for a free US account.

[Shawguy]

Got my 50 cheques in the mail today. Same as the old ones, just with new account number on them. They start at 501 cheque number now

[angel_wing0]

Got my cheques today, going to cancel the account on the 15th.

[halflife150]

Got cheques as well and I never ordered ones since I didn't want to pay shipping fee for something I would probably never use. So I got these totally free, sucks for people who ordered ones recently, paid for nothing.

[Jonavin]

Anyone get their credit cards yet?

[kashirin]

Have you decided what you will be replacing it with?

I went ahead and opened an account with Harris bank
it's $1000 balance
or you just need to make at least one deposit for $500 to make it free

will cancel RBC USA next week

[angel_wing0]

Anyone get their credit cards yet?

u dont get them until after the 17th iirc.

[thescud]

Does anyone know what are the options for someone on the West Coast? I previously setup my RBC USA account using the instructions in this post. The monthly fee doesn't trouble me too much but if there's a free option, I'll go that route. I have a road trip planned to the Seattle area in the next few months so I can stop by a branch in that area, if there is a bank that will allow me to maintain a chequing account and a credit card without a US address or SS#.

I don't need integration with a Canadian bank -- I can fund the account using XE trade.

Thanks for any advice.

[angel_wing0]

Just called RBC, and they are willing to extend one year with no fee to my account. They also claimed that they have been receiving lots of complaints regarding the fee so they may put the mbm back in the future. Of course, YMMV. Best of luck to everyone!

[Jonavin]

Just called RBC, and they are willing to extend one year with no fee to my account. They also claimed that they have been receiving lots of complaints regarding the fee so they may put it back in the future. Of course, YMMV. Best of luck to everyone!

Did you have to threaten to close the account? I know you were planning to do this anyways.

Time for everyone to call. Even if you don't get the fee waived, it will at least send the message that we're not happy.

[angel_wing0]

Did you have to threaten to close the account? I know you were planning to do this anyways.

Time for everyone to call. Even if you don't get the fee waived, it will at least send the message that we're not happy.

I didn't threaten, my intention of the call was to cancel the account all along. He was just able to change my mind.

Indeed. And alot of ppl have already called so do your part as well!

[Vasyl]

I didn't threaten, my intention of the call was to cancel the account all along. He was just able to change my mind.

Indeed. And alot of ppl have already called so do your part as well!

I called. No such luck for me, will cancel before March 17, have already set up an appointment with US TD for Feb 22. It was good till it lasted. :(

[cassandra111]

Just called RBC, and they are willing to extend one year with no fee to my account. They also claimed that they have been receiving lots of complaints regarding the fee so they may put it back in the future. Of course, YMMV. Best of luck to everyone!

Thanks a lot for the heads up! I've called them a couple of times in the past 2 weeks regarding the waiver of the fees and both reps have hinted that they might be flexible in the future and I guess the future is now. Taking your cue, I asked for the waiver today and was transferred to a supervisor and got the fees waived for 12 months. No need to threaten to leave in my case as I was never going to close this account anyway. My inactive fees were waived as well. Finally solved my dilemma of finding a viable alternative.

[angel_wing0]

Thanks a lot for the heads up! I've called them a couple of times in the past 2 weeks regarding the waiver of the fees and both reps have hinted that they might be flexible in the future and I guess the future is now. Taking your cue, I asked for the waiver today and was transferred to a supervisor and got the fees waived for 12 months. No need to threaten to leave in my case as I was never going to close this account anyway. My inactive fees were waived as well. Finally solved my dilemma of finding a viable alternative.

Great to hear!

Wait, there is inactive fees eh? :o

[angel_wing0]

I called. No such luck for me, will cancel before March 17, have already set up an appointment with US TD for Feb 22. It was good till it lasted. :(

i would have gladly went with TD too if they didnt waive it for me.

[mc_molineux]

Hmm, what are these inactivity fees?

Also, to those of you who are cancelling... are you keeping the Visa? Is this allowed?

[angel_wing0]

Also, to those of you who are cancelling... are you keeping the Visa? Is this allowed?

the visa has nothing to do with the bank account, so yes.

[cassandra111]

Great to hear!

Wait, there is inactive fees eh? :o

Pardon me! Always trying to edit my post to be as short as possible and that's the result. Meant to say, my account was inactive for more than a year and was hit with inactive fees twice before I noticed them. So I asked them to reversed these as well.

[mc_molineux]

the visa has nothing to do with the bank account, so yes.

Hmm, that's great then. I can get a checking account from a little state bank nearby, but they won't give me a Visa without an SSN. But I can pay off the RBC Visa from there, so that should be work perfectly, and no fees. Free withdrawals from Wells Fargo ATMs too, which are pretty widespread.

[angel_wing0]

Pardon me! Always trying to edit my post to be as short as possible and that's the result. Meant to say, my account was inactive for more than a year and was hit with inactive fees twice before I noticed them. So I asked them to reversed these as well.

oic, thats easy, just do a transfer from rbc canada to rbc bank or the other way around to escape that :D

[Dealll]

I want to open an account at TD USA. How exactly should I do that? I have accounts at TD Canada Trust and want to be able to transfer US funds electronically.
I have no business with RBC so far.
I can open an account at for example Bank of America in Buffalo, but how I will transfer funds from TD?
Did not find any TD US branches around Buffalo - Niagara Falls NY.

Sorry, I was trying to search this thread but unsuccessfully.

[mc_molineux]

Hmm, that's great then. I can get a checking account from a little state bank nearby, but they won't give me a Visa without an SSN. But I can pay off the RBC Visa from there, so that should be work perfectly, and no fees. Free withdrawals from Wells Fargo ATMs too, which are pretty widespread.

So after lining up my backup plan, I called RBC to cancel, but they offered to waive the fees for the year. She said I was offered this because I have enough products with RBC on the Canadian side. Maybe this is why they are waiving it for some people and not others in this thread.

She also said to call back next year and they would "revisit" the fee waiver.

[Genblue]

I want to open an account at TD USA. How exactly should I do that? I have accounts at TD Canada Trust and want to be able to transfer US funds electronically.
I have no business with RBC so far.
I can open an account at for example Bank of America in Buffalo, but how I will transfer funds from TD?
Did not find any TD US branches around Buffalo - Niagara Falls NY.

Sorry, I was trying to search this thread but unsuccessfully.
Not sure if this is going to help you, but when I need to transfer funds from my Canadian CIBC account to my American Bank of America account, I do a currency exchange using xe.com. They debit my Canadian account, do the exchange and then deposit the money in to my US account. Hopefully you could do the same without opening a TD USA account. Keep in mind, the exchange process takes about 5 days to complete.

[angel_wing0]

So after lining up my backup plan, I called RBC to cancel, but they offered to waive the fees for the year. She said I was offered this because I have enough products with RBC on the Canadian side. Maybe this is why they are waiving it for some people and not others in this thread.


ic, i have a chequing account, cad and usd esavings, tfsa as well as a credit card with rbc canada.

[angel_wing0]

I want to open an account at TD USA. How exactly should I do that? I have accounts at TD Canada Trust and want to be able to transfer US funds electronically.

Call TD Canada to set up an appointment in a TD USA branch.

You cant transfer money electronically, but u can through easyline (phone) for amounts below 5k.

[Dealll]

Not sure if this is going to help you, but when I need to transfer funds from my Canadian CIBC account to my American Bank of America account, I do a currency exchange using xe.com. They debit my Canadian account, do the exchange and then deposit the money in to my US account. Hopefully you could do the same without opening a TD USA account. Keep in mind, the exchange process takes about 5 days to complete.

Thanks, this is a good idea for those who needs an exchange. I may use xe.com in the future but right now I just have some US dollars and don't want double exchange.

[Dealll]

Call TD Canada to set up an appointment in a TD USA branch.

You cant transfer money electronically, but u can through easyline (phone) for amounts below 5k.

Thanks angel_wing0! Is there specific number to call?
I have learned that there are no branches around Buffalo NY, am I correct? In this case it's rather difficult to go for an appointment.

[angel_wing0]

Thanks angel_wing0! Is there specific number to call?
I have learned that there are no branches around Buffalo NY, am I correct? In this case it's rather difficult to go for an appointment.

easyline.

I am not sure, but if there are none then u are SOL if u only travel to that area.

[halflife150]

Meant to say, my account was inactive for more than a year and was hit with inactive fees twice before I noticed them.

Don't accounts go inactive after 2 years, in which case, why would you even need a US based account anyways, you can get free USD accounts in Canada if you are just holding US cash.


easyline.

I am not sure, but if there are none then u are SOL if u only travel to that area.

Ya, RBC definitely has the whole convenience thing down, unless you travel regularly to the States where a bank is located, the effort probably isn't worth the fee savings. As far as I know, no banks are located close to the border, except by Montreal. TD should really integrate more where you can open Canadian side and they would get more business. But by the looks of this thread, if most people aren't willing to pay a small fee, probably isn't worth it for them because no profits.

[FareakyGrampgoblin]

RBCBank fee doesn't apply until March.
It took me 2 tries to get the fee waived, so ymmv.

[mc_molineux]

ic, i have a chequing account, cad and usd esavings, tfsa as well as a credit card with rbc canada.

Yeah, that's about the same as me. I have it set up so that I get the Multi-Product Rebate so my Canadian account is free. Maybe they are using the same qualification criteria from the MPR for waiving the US account fee.

I'm pleased though... now the account is better than before (no minimum balance) but still free! If only that Visa debit wasn't so ugly. I just hope the new Visa credit doesn't have that flag design!

[angel_wing0]

I'm pleased though... now the account is better than before (no minimum balance) but still free!

oh damn, didnt know there is no mbm...i think mine is the same...hmmm.

[mc_molineux]

oh damn, didnt know there is no mbm...i think mine is the same...hmmm.

Hmm, I guess I wasn't told that explicitly, but since the account now has no mbm, just a fee, and our fee is waived, then I assumed the mbm wasn't relevant anymore. That's how I understood it. If I get charged a fee I'll call in and complain after the first month and I'm sure they will reverse it and then I'll just keep an mbm for subsequent months.

[cassandra111]

Don't accounts go inactive after 2 years, in which case, why would you even need a US based account anyways, you can get free USD accounts in Canada if you are just holding US cash.

This one goes dormant in a year. I assumed it was 2 years too. I prefer this account for the same reasons others need/want it. I just didn't need to use it the first year but I'll need it now. Have the e-savings too.

[cassandra111]

Hmm, I guess I wasn't told that explicitly, but since the account now has no mbm, just a fee, and our fee is waived, then I assumed the mbm wasn't relevant anymore. That's how I understood it. If I get charged a fee I'll call in and complain after the first month and I'm sure they will reverse it and then I'll just keep an mbm for subsequent months.

You're right. There's no min. balance now. I verified that when I was asking about their new fee and it is also printed in the new brochure.

[angel_wing0]

Hmm, I guess I wasn't told that explicitly, but since the account now has no mbm, just a fee, and our fee is waived, then I assumed the mbm wasn't relevant anymore. That's how I understood it. If I get charged a fee I'll call in and complain after the first month and I'm sure they will reverse it and then I'll just keep an mbm for subsequent months.

true that.


You're right. There's no min. balance now. I verified that when I was asking about their new fee and it is also printed in the new brochure.

i m referring to if that applied if they waived our fees.

[thinkpad]

Yep, also got the fee waived for 12 months after calling the main RBC USA main line first call. I also have a lot of money with my existing RBC Royal Bank accounts.

Thanks to Angel_wing0 for letting us know about the fee being waived. :)


ic, i have a chequing account, cad and usd esavings, tfsa as well as a credit card with rbc canada.

[cassandra111]

i m referring to if that applied if they waived our fees.

Rest assured, there isn't be a mbm and this is verified. So, as was already said, this account definitely got better. Hope it lasts.

[Jonavin]

Yep, also got the fee waived for 12 months after calling the main RBC USA main line first call. I also have a lot of money with my existing RBC Royal Bank accounts.

Thanks to Angel_wing0 for letting us know about the fee being waived. :)

How did you ask for the waived fee? Just straight ask for "can it be waived"?

[1_black_civic]

So to summarize,

The TD Bank USA Chequing account:

snip...

However,

- you have to set up an appointment at a Canadian TD branch and go down to a US TD branch to set it up in person, you can't mail the forms to the US as you could with RBC Bank USA
- you can't have seamless online transfers between Canadian TD US bank accounts and US TD Bank accounts with Easyweb, as you could with RBC Bank USA; instead you have to use telephone banking

snip...

Is this confirmed that transfers can be done in both directions, Canadian TD US account --> American TD US account, AND American TD US account --> Canadian TD US account?

I ask because with BMO's telephone banking, you can only transfer from Canadian BMO's US account --> Any American-based US account, however you CANNOT do the reverse.

[mc_molineux]

How did you ask for the waived fee? Just straight ask for "can it be waived"?

I had called in to cancel because I had found a better alternative to paying fees. Then they offered me the fee waiver if I stayed. So I did.

[angel_wing0]

Is this confirmed that transfers can be done in both directions, Canadian TD US account --> American TD US account, AND American TD US account --> Canadian TD US account?

I am pretty sure, call TD to confirm.


I had called in to cancel because I had found a better alternative to paying fees. Then they offered me the fee waiver if I stayed. So I did.

TD-Bank is an excellent weapon to use against the lousy RBC fees.

[halflife150]

TD-Bank is an excellent weapon to use against the lousy RBC fees.

Is that the same strategy you used to get the fees waived?

I called in and asked about the fees and whether I could have them waived, didn't threaten to cancel or anything, and they said well you don't have to pay any fees until May 2012. I hung up and was like YEESS!! SUCCESS!!, and then realized, wait a minute, IT IS 2012!! DAMN!! So only got 3 months fee waived. So I don't know if I'll try again or wait unitl May to try then. I have no intention of actually leaving, I would be willing to pay several times that fee, still cheaper then having to take a trip to a TD US branch to open an account. But if they are waiving fees, would like to get in on the action.

[doctororange]

I have been using the RBC Canadian Account/ RBC Bank USA Chequing combination for about 4 years now. I believe this is the ideal "real" US dollar account arrangement in Canada. i can purchase something on ebay, do a paypal payment, and transfer money into my US$ account from my Canadian account in a few seconds, REALTIME. I can use my visa debit card, provided by RBC Bank USA, anywhere in the USA or online just like a credit card.
I also have a BMO Harris Bank account, but this is not that convenient - getting money to the account is a challenge. I also have another US$ account based in Rochester, NY, but that one takes 3-5 business days to transfer money to linked US accounts.
With the transition now to RBC Bank USA Georgia NA, the monthly fee is 2.95. I am more than willing to pay this based on how much I use this account and how convenient it is.

[felix789]

FYI:

Now that the RBC USA --> PNC transition is complete, I went onto paypal to enter my new account information (routing number 063216608 + account number). And guess what, paypal doesn't recognize that routing number yet! I've emailed paypal with the routing number and the bank's info, and I'm hoping they'll fix the problem on their end.

[doctororange]

FYI:

Now that the RBC USA --> PNC transition is complete, I went onto paypal to enter my new account information (routing number 063216608 + account number). And guess what, paypal doesn't recognize that routing number yet! I've emailed paypal with the routing number and the bank's info, and I'm hoping they'll fix the problem on their end.

I had the same problem. Wrote to paypal with the details, and the routing number, and got a canned response, referring me to the FAQ. >:(
Wrote back today, will update here if I get an actual response. Of course, it may just get fixed in due course.

[felix789]

I had the same problem. Wrote to paypal with the details, and the routing number, and got a canned response, referring me to the FAQ. >:(
Wrote back today, will update here if I get an actual response. Of course, it may just get fixed in due course.

Just received the canned response too... :mad:

[Jonavin]

Has anyone tried logging into your RBC USA online account yet. Doesn't seem to be taking my login info; support line seems to be very busy.

[kamanda]

Banks are closed today so you should try again tomorrow. Same issue with the paypal routing number not being recognized but I will try again tomorrow.

[angel_wing0]

Has anyone tried logging into your RBC USA online account yet. Doesn't seem to be taking my login info; support line seems to be very busy.
login works fine here...now just need to wait for the credit card.

[felix789]

Has anyone tried logging into your RBC USA online account yet. Doesn't seem to be taking my login info; support line seems to be very busy.

Busy indeed... it's been 2 hours, and I'm still on hold. Trying to sign up for remote deposit...

[angel_wing0]

Busy indeed... it's been 2 hours, and I'm still on hold. Trying to sign up for remote deposit...

well it's the first business day after the transition..so will be alot of callers for sure :D

[1_black_civic]

Is this confirmed that transfers can be done in both directions, Canadian TD US account --> American TD US account, AND American TD US account --> Canadian TD US account?

I ask because with BMO's telephone banking, you can only transfer from Canadian BMO's US account --> Any American-based US account, however you CANNOT do the reverse.

For those switching to TD, I gathered a few more details from the North American Support line:

- Transfers can be made between your Canadian TD US account <--> American TD US account (ie. bidirectional transfers are possible)
- Transfers can be made in USD, without conversion, or CAD, with conversion
- Transfer is, in reality, a wire. TD waives the fees for this (what they call a "Me to Me" wire transfer)

I just opened my TD Convenience checking account ($100 minimum balance) and will let you know if I run into any issues.

[Jonavin]

RBC Online account is working now. They default to paper statements and you have to manually switch to estatement to avoid the $1/month paper statement fee that starts in June.

[angel_wing0]

RBC Online account is working now. They default to paper statements and you have to manually switch to estatement to avoid the $1/month paper statement fee that starts in June.

damn thanks for letting us know that.

[halflife150]

I had the same problem. Wrote to paypal with the details, and the routing number, and got a canned response, referring me to the FAQ. >:(
Wrote back today, will update here if I get an actual response. Of course, it may just get fixed in due course.

Keep this thread updated, since I will want to link it as soon as possible. For now will have to stick to using the RBC esavings and then send via link to RBCBANK, annoying extra step and 2-3 days wait time.

[felix789]

Keep this thread updated, since I will want to link it as soon as possible. For now will have to stick to using the RBC esavings and then send via link to RBCBANK, annoying extra step and 2-3 days wait time.

Paypal is now giving a different error message:

We're sorry, but that bank can't be linked to any more PayPal accounts. Please link a different bank account.

[thescud]

Does anyone have the branch mailing address for our new RBC USA accounts (assuming they are all at the same branch)? I need this for XE Trade.

[angel_wing0]

Does anyone have the branch mailing address for our new RBC USA accounts (assuming they are all at the same branch)? I need this for XE Trade.

give them a call: http://www.rbcbank.com/customer-service/cid-298585.html

[lewinsky]

Paypal is now giving a different error message:

We're sorry, but that bank can't be linked to any more PayPal accounts. Please link a different bank account.

Paypal actually updated my new RBC account and routing number automatically over the weekend. Check your profile and see if your bank info was updated too. I've already received my first withdrawal into my new account.

[halflife150]

They changed how you pay for your visa, can't do a simple transfer yet. Has anyone updated that yet, has to be added as a bill now . I tried entering biller name as visa, and the corresponding list didn't show rbc bank or royal bank or anything. I know people have RBC visas here, let me know what you did. I tried phoning in the morning but waited over 15mins before hanging up. Ridiculous wait times. I'll try again, but whoever gets the information first, share it here.


Paypal actually updated my new RBC account and routing number automatically over the weekend. Check your profile and see if your bank info was updated too. I've already received my first withdrawal into my new account.

Interesting, I noticed the change as well, that's great. And since you said you actually received your first withdrawal, I guess 100% works. Thanks for the update.

[mc_molineux]

They changed how you pay for your visa, can't do a simple transfer yet. Has anyone updated that yet, has to be added as a bill now . I tried entering biller name as visa, and the corresponding list didn't show rbc bank or royal bank or anything. I know people have RBC visas here, let me know what you did. I tried phoning in the morning but waited over 15mins before hanging up. Ridiculous wait times. I'll try again, but whoever gets the information first, share it here.



Interesting, I noticed the change as well, that's great. And since you said you actually received your first withdrawal, I guess 100% works. Thanks for the update.

Maybe they have outsourced these Visa cards now, which would explain why you can't do a normal account transfer to pay it. I know a lot of regional/local state banks do this.

[Tharnax]

Paypal actually updated my new RBC account and routing number automatically over the weekend. Check your profile and see if your bank info was updated too. I've already received my first withdrawal into my new account.

Hmmm, I just checked my US paypal which only has my RBC US Checking and US Visa and both are still the original accounts, nothing has changed.

Anyone know when we get the "new" VISA card? I see the new number when logging in but can't use it online yet as I don't have expiry or security check numbers from the back of the card. - Edited - UPDATE - I didn't realize we could use the old card until March 5.

Also, I got checks with the new account even though I never requested them in the first place. No charge for delivery so I'm okay with that.

Will be calling soon about waving the monthly fee. I only have three accounts with RBC, all for US based transactions, so I will see what they are willing to do. I'm staying either way as long as I can get all the Paypal setup properly again. I've been waiting a bit to call them as I figured they're already busy enough with those who use their accounts daily.

[thinkpad]

Hmm, and I bet it will take a while for the new credit cards to start reporting to the US bureaus against my SSN. :( I hope not, but fear so.

Good thing I just got accepted for a global transfer against my CDN AMEX card, so that's a bit more "stable"


Maybe they have outsourced these Visa cards now, which would explain why you can't do a normal account transfer to pay it. I know a lot of regional/local state banks do this.

[angel_wing0]

Anyone know when we get the "new" VISA card? I see the new number when logging in but can't use it online yet as I don't have expiry or security check numbers from the back of the card. - Edited - UPDATE - I didn't realize we could use the old card until March 5.

the transition package claims they will be sent out starting feb 17th...so i think we'll get it by march 5th else there will be alot of angry cardholders who use the card alot lol

[halflife150]

Anybody have the address yet and setup there Visa bill pay, I emailed them but still no response. There customer service sucks, long wait times and they aren't open 24/7 like they are Canadian side.


Paypal is now giving a different error message:

We're sorry, but that bank can't be linked to any more PayPal accounts. Please link a different bank account.

For those who cancelled there RBCBANK paypal links, looks like you may be permanently screwed. Can't confirm, but according to this guy: http://bradt.ca/archives/transfer-fr...#comment-36147

Looks like you will only be able to withdraw to RBC esavings then send money over to US account. If looking to fund, guess you have to with TD instead. Looks like RBC is trying to drive people away.

[sliderboy]

Anybody have the address yet and setup there Visa bill pay, I emailed them but still no response. There customer service sucks, long wait times and they aren't open 24/7 like they are Canadian side.



For those who cancelled there RBCBANK paypal links, looks like you may be permanently screwed. Can't confirm, but according to this guy: http://bradt.ca/archives/transfer-fr...#comment-36147

Looks like you will only be able to withdraw to RBC esavings then send money over to US account. If looking to fund, guess you have to with TD instead. Looks like RBC is trying to drive people away.


I'm a bit confuse correct me if I'm wrong, my understanding is

1. Canadian RBC $US account can only receive transfer NOT transfer money into it
2. Paypal does not allow to add new bank from RBC Bank Georgia (new vitual RBC USA) but grandfather old account from RBC Centura

So if paypal does not allow to add account from new RBC, how it is possible to funds the USA paypal other than by Credit card or Debit VISA?

[xlpho]

I had problems paying my rbc bank visa thru the pay bill function like people here. I called the visa credit card centre and asked them to debit my account, easiest way to do it. No wait time when I called, only had to wait for them to make sure my info was up to date.

[fuzzmania]

Does anyone have the branch mailing address for our new RBC USA accounts (assuming they are all at the same branch)? I need this for XE Trade.

063216608 RBC BANK (GA)
Suite 400, 500
8081 ARCO CORPORATE DRIVE,
RALEIGH, NC 27617-0000
(919) 206-1183
2012-02-16

[brunes]

I just wanted to report that I did another free wire, but this time from TD USA to TDCT.

I called last night at like 8:30 and initiated the wire, and it was in my TDCT Borderless today shortly after noon - so not even 1 banking day. Actually quite impressed, I had assumed it would not be avail. until Monday.

[felix789]

I'm a bit confuse correct me if I'm wrong, my understanding is

1. Canadian RBC $US account can only receive transfer NOT transfer money into it
2. Paypal does not allow to add new bank from RBC Bank Georgia (new vitual RBC USA) but grandfather old account from RBC Centura

So if paypal does not allow to add account from new RBC, how it is possible to funds the USA paypal other than by Credit card or Debit VISA?


1. Transfers can go both ways, from/to RBC Royal Bank USD to/from RBC GA.

2. Paypal can now add RBC GA accounts.

[felix789]

Something else I just found out... RBC GA's remote deposit doesn't work with cheques over $5000.

[Jonavin]

Has anyone received the new RBC Rewards Platinum VISA? Is the design as horrific as the Debit card?

[mc_molineux]

Has anyone received the new RBC Rewards Platinum VISA? Is the design as horrific as the Debit card?

According to the picture in the Transition Guide, the design is very similar to the current card.

[angel_wing0]

Has anyone received the new RBC Rewards Platinum VISA? Is the design as horrific as the Debit card?

still waiting for mine orz

[halflife150]

I just wanted to report that I did another free wire, but this time from TD USA to TDCT.

I called last night at like 8:30 and initiated the wire, and it was in my TDCT Borderless today shortly after noon - so not even 1 banking day. Actually quite impressed, I had assumed it would not be avail. until Monday.

I couldn't find the post, but if I remember correctly there was something about a $5k transfer limit? Is that the limit, and is that per transaction or per day? I know RBC is $25k, but that is only per transaction, so easily around that limit. Also, what are the TD US CSR hours and what's the wait? Is it 24hrs? RBC is like 9am-12am or something, but always busy and can never get through within a decent time. If it weren't for the fact you had to visit a TD US branch to open, I might actually have switched to TD US.


1. Transfers can go both ways, from/to RBC Royal Bank USD to/from RBC GA.

2. Paypal can now add RBC GA accounts.

Is that confirmed, because there was a poster at another site stating you can't add RBCUSD accounts to paypal anymore according to a paypal csr. Only grandfathered accounts were switched over. So just want to clarify, can you or can you not add RBCUSA to paypal now?

[angel_wing0]

I couldn't find the post, but if I remember correctly there was something about a $5k transfer limit? Is that the limit, and is that per transaction or per day?

If it weren't for the fact you had to visit a TD US branch to open, I might actually have switched to TD US.

it's per day iirc.

agreed on that.

[thinkpad]

Hey halflife150,

I confirm I have added the new "transitioned" RBC USA account to my paypal with no problems. Just needed the routing number and account number. Did this last week. Got the Paypal verify deposit amounts the next day.



Is that confirmed, because there was a poster at another site stating you can't add RBCUSD accounts to paypal anymore according to a paypal csr. Only grandfathered accounts were switched over. So just want to clarify, can you or can you not add RBCUSA to paypal now?

[angel_wing0]

Is that confirmed, because there was a poster at another site stating you can't add RBCUSD accounts to paypal anymore according to a paypal csr. Only grandfathered accounts were switched over. So just want to clarify, can you or can you not add RBCUSA to paypal now?

Just added RBC BANK (GA) to paypal USA, waiting for confirm deposits. So I am sure it will work.

[brunes]

I couldn't find the post, but if I remember correctly there was something about a $5k transfer limit? Is that the limit, and is that per transaction or per day?

I think it is 5K / day. More than that and you have to pay a normal wire fee.



Also, what are the TD US CSR hours and what's the wait? Is it 24hrs?

Not sure, like I said though they were open at about 7:30 PM EST, that is when I did the call.

[halflife150]

Just added RBC BANK (GA) to paypal USA, waiting for confirm deposits. So I am sure it will work.

Good to hear.

[angel_wing0]

Good to hear.

got the confirming deposits and confirmed the account with paypal. So yes, u can add rbc bank (GA) accounts to paypal.

[Jonavin]

Received my RBC Visa today. Design is the same as the old one except the "RBC Bank" is in a larger font. They shipped to my US billing address, which luckily I'm here this week.

[VNex]

Has anyone opened this RBC Access USA account after it has been transitioned with the $3/mth fee? I'm wondering if they would waive the $3 fee for new sign ups (if asked)...

I want to open this account but I'm not sure it's worth paying for... I don't have any RBC accounts, so I doubt they'd waive it for me. Any idea?

[angel_wing0]

I want to open this account but I'm not sure it's worth paying for... I don't have any RBC accounts, so I doubt they'd waive it for me. Any idea?

yeah, probably not.

[rborek]

Still haven't received my Visa (I'm in Canada), called up and they said the current card would stop working on March 4 at 5am, and to charge everything to my Canadian RBC Visa card in the meantime and that they'd waive the foreign currency fees on that card...

[angel_wing0]

Still haven't received my Visa (I'm in Canada), called up and they said the current card would stop working on March 4 at 5am, and to charge everything to my Canadian RBC Visa card in the meantime and that they'd waive the foreign currency fees on that card...

same, havent got mine yet either orz

[gary88]

Sorry if this has been asked already but, tried reading most of this thread and could not find the answers.


... I have a road trip planned to the Seattle area in the next few months so I can stop by a branch in that area, if there is a bank that will allow me to maintain a chequing account and a credit card without a US address or SS#.

somewhat in the similar situation,...ideally set up a CC with a US bank w/o US add nor ss#. Chq account good to set up to pay off card bills and, as a bonus, efficiently transfer US$ back into Can-based us$ acct from the convenience of a PC/phone and best with no fees. Don't currently have established history, cr, south of the 49th....somewhat wished i'd have gotten in on this RBC arrangement earlier.

Plans are to have recent Can card statements, and p-stubs to provide support to try to secure the card and chq accounts. Anyone comment on their experience with whether these are enough to get things set up?....would one need more or less to improve the odds of getting both? Further, will assume some initial deposit would be helpful for the initial chqing account setup (thinking min 500$? may be good)?

Any advantage of calling ahead to book an appointment? Somewhat reserved after recent phone call to a bank yielded an interesting discussion....essential conversation with person stated that he 'saw' successful CC apps go through with a big initial deposit into chq acct. But,...not nice showing un-announced and not have a more experienced person plead your case for you.

If successful, any confirmation whether the larger banks would, with no likely affiliation to banks here, mail initial card to Can address?
Obviously, would like to minimize trips to have to set this up initially and going forward.

Thanks in advance.

[Tharnax]

same, havent got mine yet either orz

I hadn't got mine either as of late last week, so I called my freight forwarder and they confirmed they received my card card. For security purposes I asked them to destroy it and I called RBC bank and ensured that they issued a new card to my Canadian address. They said it would take 3 business days and I'd have to sign for it. I told them I'd prefer if they had done that in the first place. Since that's two of us who have received the card at a US address you might want to check, if possible, that your card didn't go to the US by accident.

[goldeneyed]

I hadn't got mine either as of late last week, so I called my freight forwarder and they confirmed they received my card card. For security purposes I asked them to destroy it and I called RBC bank and ensured that they issued a new card to my Canadian address. They said it would take 3 business days and I'd have to sign for it. I told them I'd prefer if they had done that in the first place. Since that's two of us who have received the card at a US address you might want to check, if possible, that your card didn't go to the US by accident.

Not only did my credit card go my USA address, but they also got my name wrong on the card and the letter, which makes no sense at all. They had it correctly for the Visa Debit card and they sent it to Canada. So instead of putting the initial of my first name followed by my last name on the credit card like they do with everything else, they put my first name and omitted 2 letters in the middle of my last name for my credit card. I had to call in and tell them I wanted a new card. I also called the bank division and got my fees waived for a year. They asked for my Canadian client card number before they were able to tell me what they could offer.

[angel_wing0]

I hadn't got mine either as of late last week, so I called my freight forwarder and they confirmed they received my card card. For security purposes I asked them to destroy it and I called RBC bank and ensured that they issued a new card to my Canadian address. They said it would take 3 business days and I'd have to sign for it. I told them I'd prefer if they had done that in the first place. Since that's two of us who have received the card at a US address you might want to check, if possible, that your card didn't go to the US by accident.

omg no. Thanks for letting me know and i'll def call them first thing this morning.

[angel_wing0]

called, it was actually sent to my canada address 2 weeks ago, so the thing is i havent received it yet...guess i'll give it another week or so.

[thegradas]

I have a US Target Visa CC, an XE Trade acct., and a US Citizens Bank chequing acct. Recently, Citizens Bank decided to charge a $5 monthly fee for all customers, even for those who kept a $1k minimum balance.

I'd appreciate any suggestion on:
- US banks that are willing to open FREE chequing accts for Canadians
- Any other way to transfer funds (for free) towards US Visa payments?

TIA

[Shawguy]

Called them yesterday to ask where my new card is (I still have not received it yet), and they tell me someone will call me today... no call received. How much longer should I wait for this card?

[halflife150]

Should definitely call because I believe in the package it said you could not use your old card after March 8th or maybe it was even sooner. So you definitely should have received your card by then.

Received my cc a few days ago, I say it looks better than previous. Basically the same design, just a bit darker, which to me makes it look a little "richer". I finally found the right biller name, RBC BANK, I wrote down the zip code but currently can't find the paper. Was told just to call visa and pay it over the phone, much quicker.

[angel_wing0]

still no visa yet. If i dont get it tmr i m calling again :facepalm:

[Jonavin]

More RBC USA quirks. You no longer can just transfer money into your Visa account to pay it. Now you have to enroll in Bill Payment, which takes another business day to enroll. So right now I have to wait until my enrollment is complete before I can pay any bills. Why is this step even necessary? I don't recall ever to have to do this step to pay bills at any bank.

[Tharnax]

As I mentioned in an earlier post, my VISA was sent to the US address. Well, I called Sunday evening to let them know my card was "lost" or "stolen". They confirmed my info as usual and confirmed my mailing address. Well, I would have received it Wednesday had I been home to meet the Purolator courier. Instead, I went after work yesterday and picked it up from Purolator's depot. 4 days is a pretty good turn around, IMO.

Not being able to transfer from Checking to Visa does seem odd but not the end of the world. Since there is no interest on cash in the checking account, I just leave an extra $1k on the credit card so I don't have to track small purchases or monthly usage fees for stuff like Rhapsody. Then I also have another option for cash advances in case there isn't an ATM around when I need one.

[Jin-n-Juice]

still no visa yet. If i dont get it tmr i m calling again :facepalm:

Just call them at 888-257-6837. They will purolator you a new one. I got mine 2 days after calling them. Make sure they send it to your Canadian address

[Jonavin]

This is really STUPID. After 1 business day to setup bill payments, I log in and try to add RBC Visa as a bill... the problem? It's not even listed as a payee. So how does one go about paying their RBC Visa since transfers no longer work and it's not listed as a payee.

[angel_wing0]

Just call them at 888-257-6837. They will purolator you a new one. I got mine 2 days after calling them. Make sure they send it to your Canadian address

thanks, going to call now. Not going to wait anymore.


This is really STUPID. After 1 business day to setup bill payments, I log in and try to add RBC Visa as a bill... the problem? It's not even listed as a payee. So how does one go about paying their RBC Visa since transfers no longer work and it's not listed as a payee.

You should call rbc...doesnt sound like that should be happening.

[dvst8r]

This is really STUPID. After 1 business day to setup bill payments, I log in and try to add RBC Visa as a bill... the problem? It's not even listed as a payee. So how does one go about paying their RBC Visa since transfers no longer work and it's not listed as a payee.


I just added mine, didn't have to wait a day and it was available right away to be paid.

Search for "RBC Bank"
Enter info
Use 02298-1350 for Zip code - see Payments section in Cardholder Agreement

Hope that helps!

[angel_wing0]

called RBC, going to courier the card, should be there in 2-3 business days. Hope i get it soon.

[1_black_civic]

I just added mine, didn't have to wait a day and it was available right away to be paid.

Search for "RBC Bank"
Enter info
Use 02298-1350 for Zip code - see Payments section in Cardholder Agreement

Hope that helps!

I didn't have this info so I called it in. Payment posts same-day. The agent told me paying via bill pay using the info above takes up to 3 days to post. Beware of this fact if you're cutting close the payment date! (I called in the payment on the due date so this made all the difference)

[Jonavin]

I just added mine, didn't have to wait a day and it was available right away to be paid.

Search for "RBC Bank"
Enter info
Use 02298-1350 for Zip code - see Payments section in Cardholder Agreement

Hope that helps!

Thanks that worked. Why they don't include it as one of the stock selectable accounts is beyond me. In fact, you'd think it would at least be on the list of credit cards when you go add a payee.

And confirmed that there's a 3-4 day delay. I tried a test payment and I can't pick a date before March 15th.

[1_black_civic]

Has anyone else noticed that the transactions listed for your RBC Visa credit card are in random date order? And that there isn't any way to sort it?

I have transactions from Jan intermingled with Feb and March :!:

[Jonavin]

Has anyone else noticed that the transactions listed for your RBC Visa credit card are in random date order? And that there isn't any way to sort it?

I have transactions from Jan intermingled with Feb and March :!:

Yes, it's annoying and continues the impression of amateurism for the new site.

[superj]

Is there a limit to transfer money from a Canadian bank to Paypal and then from Paypal to a US Bank? It seems there's no fee in between. Does this look right?

[angel_wing0]

Is there a limit to transfer money from a Canadian bank to Paypal and then from Paypal to a US Bank? It seems there's no fee in between. Does this look right?

transferring to paypal has no fee, and transferring to bank has no fee if it's over $150 in CAD...don't think there is a min for USD.

[superj]

transferring to paypal has no fee, and transferring to bank has no fee if it's over $150 in CAD...don't think there is a min for USD.

Thank you Angel. Essentially, you can save a lot by using this transfer method instead of writing yourself a cheque from your Canadian Bank and have it deposited in your US account with a huge fee. And not to mention the lost conversion rates. Awesome find!

[angel_wing0]

Thank you Angel. Essentially, you can save a lot by using this transfer method instead of writing yourself a cheque from your Canadian Bank and have it deposited in your US account with a huge fee. And not to mention the lost conversion rates. Awesome find!

great pt actually. Useful especially for harris bank account holders.

[superj]

great pt actually. Useful especially for harris bank account holders.

What about Bank of America or TD USA? Will they charge a fee for paypal transfer to the US bank with higher amount?

[angel_wing0]

What about Bank of America or TD USA? Will they charge a fee for paypal transfer to the US bank with higher amount?

No idea, check their websites yourself or call them. They probably treat it just a regular transfer.

[cheapcanoehead]

SuperJ I think you originally stated you wanted to transfer from your Canadian account to Paypal, then from Paypal to your bank in the US. You can only do this if you withdraw CAD to Paypal, then pay Paypal's lousy conversion rate and then send US on to your US financial institution. If your intent is to take from your US$ currency account at a Canadian fin inst. you won't be able to get the US dollars into your Paypal account. Paypal only recognizes routing numbers from institutions in physically located in the US. (One exception to this is you can withdraw US to RBC E-Savings but you cannot pull money in to Paypal from RBC E-Savings)

If I am misinterpreting your question and you are simply transferring from one US finanical institution physically located in the US to another financial institution in the US, then sure you can do that no problem and with no cost.

[brunes]

Thank you Angel. Essentially, you can save a lot by using this transfer method instead of writing yourself a cheque from your Canadian Bank and have it deposited in your US account with a huge fee. And not to mention the lost conversion rates. Awesome find!

This doesn't make any sense to me

- Since when does depositing a cheque cost a fee, at any bank? I am missing something there.

- You can't take Paypal out of a Canadian bank and then deposit it into a US bank without Paypal doing the currency conversion, the avoidance of which is the main point of this thread I believe.

[angel_wing0]

I think i misinterpreted the question as well.

BTW just got the visa today at work. Like!

[Shawguy]

So I called on Monday and they said they would send it by purolator. I rec'd it yesterday and went down to the depot and signed for it. Anyways...today I come home and the original one (the one thats been missing) was in my mailbox.... That was a long delay to get across the border!

[angel_wing0]

So I called on Monday and they said they would send it by purolator. I rec'd it yesterday and went down to the depot and signed for it. Anyways...today I come home and the original one (the one thats been missing) was in my mailbox.... That was a long delay to get across the border!

now u have 2 :D

i still dont see the original one...probably lost.

[Jonavin]

This new bill payment thing stinks. After a week my $1 test payment has not posted into my Visa account yet. When I read the status it says a check was sent out to the payee, today. Really? Seriously? So expect another few days delay. So it's going to take 10 business days to pay a bill?

[ovovov]

no need wait for the activation code. got the a/c # just call them.

[ovovov]

more info for future use:

one you have your usa chq a/c(true us based #), call 1.8007692553, ask for 1)get access to online banking 2) apply the reward visa.3) wait for 2-4 weeks for both cards come, and call in again and ask for waive the monthly fees

for ppl who is interested in hooking up with the true us paypal account, you need the routing # 063216608 and your account number.( no need for transit #, only canadian bank use transit #)

for ppl who is interested in setup up with exchanging usd<->cad, try xe trade. or pls suggest any decent online brokers..

[peano]

I received two Visas. Both are debit cards, not credit cards??

[craftsman]

more info for future use:

one you have your usa chq a/c(true us based #), call 1.8007692553, ask for 1)get access to online banking 2) apply the reward visa.3) wait for 2-4 weeks for both cards come, and call in again and ask for waive the monthly fees


Is there anything specially you need to do to get them to wave the monthly fees?

[mc_molineux]

This new bill payment thing stinks. After a week my $1 test payment has not posted into my Visa account yet. When I read the status it says a check was sent out to the payee, today. Really? Seriously? So expect another few days delay. So it's going to take 10 business days to pay a bill?

Seriously? They mail a check? To their own credit card company? How stupid is this?

So how much lead time do I need to give my Visa payment so that I don't miss the deadline?

Can you cut out the middle man, write a cheque to yourself, take a photo of it and deposit it against the Visa account with that phone app? Seems way simpler if they allow it.

[Jonavin]

Seriously? They mail a check? To their own credit card company? How stupid is this?

So how much lead time do I need to give my Visa payment so that I don't miss the deadline?

Can you cut out the middle man, write a cheque to yourself, take a photo of it and deposit it against the Visa account with that phone app? Seems way simpler if they allow it.

Just got a confirmation secure message from them. Yes, they mail out a check. So it'll be a total of 10 business days to process the payment. They did say they were working on a more direct payment method.

This transition thing isn't looking like it's that we'll planned out.

[angel_wing0]

Just got a confirmation secure message from them. Yes, they mail out a check. So it'll be a total of 10 business days to process the payment. They did say they were working on a more direct payment method.

This transition thing isn't looking like it's that we'll planned out.

..wow, thats just..fail --* All this stuff should have been sorted out before the transition.

[mc_molineux]

Just got a confirmation secure message from them. Yes, they mail out a check. So it'll be a total of 10 business days to process the payment. They did say they were working on a more direct payment method.

This transition thing isn't looking like it's that we'll planned out.

That's ridiculous. I'll have to pay my Visa by the middle of this week then, to allow for Good Friday and a bit of a buffer on this 10 day thing. Wow.

Thanks for the info Jonavin. I'd probably have missed my due date without it.

[ovovov]

Is there anything specially you need to do to get them to wave the monthly fees?

i said: i want the monthly fee waived. they said no...
i called in again, said: where's the service in your customer services? i want you to waive the month fee... rep: ye sir! you fee is waive for a year.

[craftsman]

i said: i want the monthly fee waived. they said no...

That's the answer I expected from a bank... ;)

Did you have any existing relationship with the RBC? -ie brokerage account, RRSP, mortgage? I've heard that you might be able to get a deal on services if the relationship is strong enough.

[superj]

Yes you are right. I thought I saw a loop hole but i was mistaken. Paypal does charge a conversion fee and not a good one either. :( I am still looking for a best way to transfer from Canadian acct to my US acct without paying a hefty fee and conversion rate.


This doesn't make any sense to me

- Since when does depositing a cheque cost a fee, at any bank? I am missing something there.

- You can't take Paypal out of a Canadian bank and then deposit it into a US bank without Paypal doing the currency conversion, the avoidance of which is the main point of this thread I believe.

[thinkpad]

Okay, maybe I'm a different case here, but I received my credit card visa, and it is actually a PNC visa card. Bright orange points reward card. Does everyone else here have the RBC card which may look similar to the old grey one?

My RBC account is an access USA account, but I didn't link my Canadian address into the RBC account...

Does anyone have the ability to look at the account balance on their visa in their online banking? I'm being told to log into the PNC website to check my balance. I am allowed to add PNC visa credit card in the online bill payment... But wonder if it is the same as the "mailing out a cheque" thing mentioned earlier...

[mc_molineux]

Okay, maybe I'm a different case here, but I received my credit card visa, and it is actually a PNC visa card. Bright orange points reward card. Does everyone else here have the RBC card which may look similar to the old grey one?

My RBC account is an access USA account, but I didn't link my Canadian address into the RBC account...

Does anyone have the ability to look at the account balance on their visa in their online banking? I'm being told to log into the PNC website to check my balance. I am allowed to add PNC visa credit card in the online bill payment... But wonder if it is the same as the "mailing out a cheque" thing mentioned earlier...

Wow, yeah, it sounds like you are in a totally different situation than us. Somehow your Visa got sold to PNC... most of us are still with RBC with a Visa very similar to the old one.

We can see the Visa account balance in online banking.

[angel_wing0]

I still received mailed statements from RBC although I have already changed to e-statements. Ugh, what a pain.

[thinkpad]

Yes indeed. Visa looks like this one:

https://www.pnc.com/webapp/unsec/Blank.do?siteArea=/pnccorp/PNC/Home/Personal/Credit+Cards/CC/PNC+points+Visa+Credit+Cards

I confirmed if I wanted an RBC visa I'd have to apply again. Probably done this way because I have a SSN. Maybe a blessing in disguise as I can have an RBC USA Visa and the PNC Visa in parallel. (along with the AMEX I have which are all insecured credit cards :))


Wow, yeah, it sounds like you are in a totally different situation than us. Somehow your Visa got sold to PNC... most of us are still with RBC with a Visa very similar to the old one.

We can see the Visa account balance in online banking.

[ovovov]

applied rbcbank us visa, denied....-->im going to close all the accounts.. unfortunately.

[thinkpad]

applied rbcbank us visa, denied....-->im going to close all the accounts.. unfortunately.

Did you ask them to apply checking your Canadian credit history?

[cheapcanoehead]

As others have previously posted, RBC will waive the monthly fee if you complain or threaten to close your account.

I took all the money out of mine and a couple of nights ago asked them to close the account. They asked me if I wanted to close both the chequing and the credit card. I said leave the credit card just close the bank account. They then asked me how I would pay the credit card. I told them I'd use bill pay from another bank I have physically in the US. They then offered me the fee waiver for one year. I took them up on it and left the account open.

I have to think that they must be planning to offer us fee whiners something before the year is up. Perhaps early next year, they'll switch the thing to keep a minimum balance of ??? to waive the fee. They'll be out of step with competitors if they don't.

A lot of the big US banks have started to implement minimum balance requirements in order to waive fees, so my guess RBC will follow suit.

[angel_wing0]

A lot of the big US banks have started to implement minimum balance requirements in order to waive fees, so my guess RBC will follow suit.

..the worst thing is they used to have it, THEN removed it. Damn RBC.

[mastercool]

So does the RBC US checking account require to have $700 USD minimum balance at all times??

I'm actually very interested in this...I have day trading accounts and whenever I choose to withdraw money to my Canadian bank, I'm charged a hefty $40 wiring fee.

Any tips would be appreciated. Thanks!

[mc_molineux]

So does the RBC US checking account require to have $700 USD minimum balance at all times??

I'm actually very interested in this...I have day trading accounts and whenever I choose to withdraw money to my Canadian bank, I'm charged a hefty $40 wiring fee.

Any tips would be appreciated. Thanks!

Not anymore. The minimum balance in exchange for no fees offer no longer applies. The only way to avoid the fees now is get them waived for the year by the CSR.

[Tharnax]

So does the RBC US checking account require to have $700 USD minimum balance at all times??

I'm actually very interested in this...I have day trading accounts and whenever I choose to withdraw money to my Canadian bank, I'm charged a hefty $40 wiring fee.

Any tips would be appreciated. Thanks!

It seems that since the "monthly fee" was implemented you don't need to have the $700 minimum balance at all times. Which means if you are able to negotiate with the bank to wave the fee, then essentially you can have a US based account with no money in it or fees charged for 12 months. After 12 months you would have to renegotiate the fees for another period of time.

I'm not sure your exact purpose and not sure how you can avoid the wiring fee unless they are willing to issue you a USD check or give you cash, however, the RBC US checking account is primarily desired because the RBC US is "based" out of the US, which means not only is it a US$ bank account but it is a US bank account, which makes it easier to use the debit and credit cards on the other side of the board. This could mean if you were moving US$ funds from your day trading account (assuming it's a CDN brokerage) then you could be charged a international wire fee to send it to the US for processing.

However, if you setup the RBC U$ High interest savings account you can deposit any US cash or cheques directly into this account at any RBC bank branch. However, normally any withdrawal wire transfer costs money regardless of where the money is directed and I've never been charged by the receiving bank to process the deposit of the wire into my account.

[mastercool]

For the broker I use, for US based EFT withdrawals, there is no charge. This is why the RBC US bank account option looks attractive to me right now. Thanks for the info guys!

[Jonavin]

Just an update for anyone who cares. My $1 test payment on March 8th finally posted on March 22nd. Yup two weeks. And they actually showed a scan of the check they RBC bank paid RBC Visa with. This is supposed to be online banking? :facepalm:

[peano]

I ended up with two RBC Visa Debit cards and one PNC Points Visa (orange).

I can't make a transfer to any of them.

I have to make an online payment which results in a cheque being sent 4 days later????

What a fiasco.

[mc_molineux]

Just an update for anyone who cares. My $1 test payment on March 8th finally posted on March 22nd. Yup two weeks. And they actually showed a scan of the check they RBC bank paid RBC Visa with. This is supposed to be online banking? :facepalm:

Hmm. My Visa payment took 6 days, including 2 weekend days. And I don't see a scan of a cheque... my scan looks more like a debit memo or some sort of voucher that says "PLEASE POST THIS PAYMENT FOR OUR MUTUAL CUSTOMER".

Overall, I'm fairly satisfied with it. It went through the day it told me it would (the 6th day was the earliest it would let me set) and there weren't any issues. It could be a lot worse.

[Tharnax]

Be very, very careful using the RBC US Platinum Visa card for transactions outside of the US. From my experience, when I use my regular CND VISA, MC or Amex outside of Canada, I get a foreign exchange fee as many countries outside accept US$ for payment. So when I return home I have a transaction for $X usd which converts to $Y cdn after the credit card company charges there FX fee.

So I was on a trip to Panama in March and I rented a vehicle. They required a CC, as all rental companies do, so I gave them my RBC US Platinum visa card. Well, when I returned the vehicle they said can the rental amount to the same credit card. I figured, sure why not, saves me any FX conversion fees. Well, I check my CC balance and immediately after the rental company charge there is a "CROSS BORDER FEE/FOREIGN EXCHANGE FEE" for $28.10. Since I know Panama uses only US$ as their primary currency (http://www.virtualpanama.com/panama-currency.asp), a 3% cross-boarder fee is higher then had I used a CDN CC and paid the FX fee.

Going to call and discuss it with them as I don't recall a 3% "cross boarder fee" noted on the documentation I was sent.

[mc_molineux]

Be very, very careful using the RBC US Platinum Visa card for transactions outside of the US. From my experience, when I use my regular CND VISA, MC or Amex outside of Canada, I get a foreign exchange fee as many countries outside accept US$ for payment. So when I return home I have a transaction for $X usd which converts to $Y cdn after the credit card company charges there FX fee.

So I was on a trip to Panama in March and I rented a vehicle. They required a CC, as all rental companies do, so I gave them my RBC US Platinum visa card. Well, when I returned the vehicle they said can the rental amount to the same credit card. I figured, sure why not, saves me any FX conversion fees. Well, I check my CC balance and immediately after the rental company charge there is a "CROSS BORDER FEE/FOREIGN EXCHANGE FEE" for $28.10. Since I know Panama uses only US$ as their primary currency (http://www.virtualpanama.com/panama-currency.asp), a 3% cross-boarder fee is higher then had I used a CDN CC and paid the FX fee.

Going to call and discuss it with them as I don't recall a 3% "cross boarder fee" noted on the documentation I was sent.

This was noted earlier in the thread, but I was burned by it too. I ordered some shirts from the US website of an English shirtmaker and was charged USD. I used the RBC US Visa and was charged this fee because the charge was processed in England, even though it was in USD. The shirts ship from a US warehouse, I was billed in USD and used a USD credit card, but still charged a cross-border fee. WTF?

[Tharnax]

Hmmm, must have missed that post but thanks for the confirmation. I purchased there services and products using the CC but it's always been through paypal, so maybe that's why I've avoided the fee, where as the rental charge in Panama was put directly on the card. Oh well, live and learn. If they don't get you with conversion fees, they'll get you with cross-boarder fees.

"VISA card accepted everywhere Visa is accepted, but if you use it out of the US we'll charge you 3% because heck we can!"

[hoveran]

Hmmm, must have missed that post but thanks for the confirmation. I purchased there services and products using the CC but it's always been through paypal, so maybe that's why I've avoided the fee, where as the rental charge in Panama was put directly on the card. Oh well, live and learn. If they don't get you with conversion fees, they'll get you with cross-boarder fees.

"VISA card accepted everywhere Visa is accepted, but if you use it out of the US we'll charge you 3% because heck we can!"


Is the CROSS BORDER FEE only for cards issued by American issuers? I have not seen this fee listed in the information box of any Canadian cards.

[mc_molineux]

Is the CROSS BORDER FEE only for cards issued by American issuers? I have not seen this fee listed in the information box of any Canadian cards.

Yeah, it seems to be an American thing. In Canada they get you on foreign currency transactions, but I guess because lots of companies outside of the USA deal in USD, US cards use this cross-border thing, since most Americans probably don't transact outside of USD very often.

[halflife150]

Yeah, it seems to be an American thing. In Canada they get you on foreign currency transactions, but I guess because lots of companies outside of the USA deal in USD, US cards use this cross-border thing, since most Americans probably don't transact outside of USD very often.

I had this issue awhile back so I can confirm this happens to Canadian cards as well, or at least with Visa, but assuming MC is same. I complained about it not being in the terms and was refunded the fees, but they won't refund going forward. Even though terms only mention forex on foreign currency, it also includes any purchase in a foreign country regardless of currency used.

[Jonavin]

Yeah, it seems to be an American thing. In Canada they get you on foreign currency transactions, but I guess because lots of companies outside of the USA deal in USD, US cards use this cross-border thing, since most Americans probably don't transact outside of USD very often.

Same problem if you happen to buy from a Canadian online site that charges USD. If you use your RBC Platinum Visa, you will be charged a cross-border fee. Won't make that mistake again.

[otown47]

I have a bank account with RBC USA and their Visa. I recently set this up. I set the card up as a bill and made a payment. The payment appeared on the Visa in 2 days....and was backdated to the date I made the payment.

No problem here!!!

[mc_molineux]

I have a bank account with RBC USA and their Visa. I recently set this up. I set the card up as a bill and made a payment. The payment appeared on the Visa in 2 days....and was backdated to the date I made the payment.

No problem here!!!

Great to hear. Sounds like they are working out the kinks... from Jonavin, to when I did it, and now to when you did it, there have been improvements over each period.

[thinkpad]

I ended up with two RBC Visa Debit cards and one PNC Points Visa (orange).

I can't make a transfer to any of them.

I have to make an online payment which results in a cheque being sent 4 days later????

What a fiasco.

For myself I had called RBC US and re applied for the RBC USA Visa credit card which I received at my Canadian address(they used my Canadian credit information for this card, still building the US one). Called PNC and got a PIN mailed to my address, thus being able to view my PNC Visa credit card balance on their PNC website. Have two separate Visa's in US now after all of this.

TIP: So if they migrated your RBC Visa credit card to PNC, just apply for a new one and you'll have both.

[Tummy]

Same problem if you happen to buy from a Canadian online site that charges USD. If you use your RBC Platinum Visa, you will be charged a cross-border fee. Won't make that mistake again.

What's being referred to here is what is known as a "Foreign Transaction Fee".

This is very common on a lot of US based credit cards and can range up to 3% of the transaction. On cards that have it, you will be charged this on ANY transaction to your card when the transaction is initiated from OUTSIDE of the US. even if the transaction is in USD. Like if you use that card for DealExtreme, even though it's in USD because it's not within the US, there will be these FTF. There are a few cards available that don't have it but as a Canadian, I think those are quite hard to get.

To me, this isn't the same as what we in Canada get charged which is a Foreign Exchange Fee - typicaly 2.5% on top of the exchange rate at the time transaction regardless of the initiating location or the currency.

Just thought I'd chip in... :)

[aw237]

I called in today based on a couple of posts above and had my monthly fee waived on the embassy chequing. The agent seemed like it was no big deal and mentioned that there may be minimum balance fee waivers on new accounts in the future.

can't do anything about the cross-border fee but I think I'm going to switch most of my USD transactions to the amazon.ca card from Chase with no currency exchange fees. Hopefully they don't have a cross-border fee - don't see any info on that either way.

aron

[shylok]

why don't people just use a Canadian amex.. and when buying in USA.. call in to flip the address to USA address to pass AVS.. (their system auto flips back in 24/48hrs)

I'd like to get a US visa just to have, and pay when I want to. ideally.. i'd have a paypal us debit card.. but can't see how i'd get one. I have a US paypal account. verified it with a RBC Centura account and everything.. but when I click Debit Mastercard.. it says I don't live in the USA so can't get one..

[Jonavin]

Some places just won't take anything but a US credit card, yes even with the billing address change. An example is the Amazon Appstore and Amazon Music. Most other places at least has Paypal as an option.

[larelr2003]

A recent payment made on RBC's web site to my RBC Bank Visa from my Royal Embassy account was credited to the Visa account the next day.

A payment on the same date on RBC's site to my Desjardins Bank Atira Mastercard from the same RBC account took 6 days, but included a weekend.

I can use Atira's credit card web site to make on-line payments to my Atira Mastercard from an account at any US Bank. I set up such a payment on 18 April at 4 PM from my RBC Royal Embassy account and the payment was credited to my Atira Mastercard account the same day. The debit from my RBC Embassy account is dated 19 April.

LAR

[DrAcX]

I'm looking to build credit in the US, and am have been hearing stories that one can setup a chequing account with Bank of America as a Canadian, without any SSN.

Link to options:
https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/index.action?body=check_compare
In particular the MyAccess chequing account doesn't seem too bad sans min balance of $1.5k to waive fees.

So one question is can you then follow up by setting up a BoA credit card?
https://www.bankofamerica.com/credit-cards/view-all-credit-cards.go
In particular, BankAmericard, which is meant for people with bad or no credit.

Also, assuming you setup a BoA chequing account, is it possible to link it with a Canadian-based USD account for EFT? Or are you pretty much limited to bringing cash over the border in order to deposit?
(I guess this question also applies to any other US-based chequing accounts.)

Should also mention, I'm focusing on BoA mostly b/c it is the largest bank in US, and has many branches and ATMs everywhere should you need to access cash.

If this all works, then it seems like a relatively easy process, plus the CC and associated chequing acc will both be integrated into one interface similar to RBC. Can anyone comment?
Is this a viable alternative to other options mentioned in this thread like the RBC or TD routes?

I was going through this thread and was sold on RBC all the way until the new fee, and then realizing that when you're dealing with RBC, you're dealing with a bank that has a track record of doing these things, and hence a high possibility of more fees to follow for services that are currently free.

[DrAcX]

Also have a couple general questions since it seems many of you have experience:

1. Can EFT be setup between a Canadian-based and a US-based US$ chequing account (ie. mail a US-based account's cheque to your Canadian US$ account's firm to link the two accounts)? If not, what options are there to fund a US-based US$ chequing account (assuming it's a US bank like BoA and not RBC/TD)?

2. Assuming you have a US-based CC, can you pay it using a Canadian-based US$ account? Or are you only able to pay using a US-based US$ account?

[angel_wing0]

2. Assuming you have a US-based CC, can you pay it using a Canadian-based US$ account?

Or are you only able to pay using a US-based US$ account?

no.

yes.

[taehoya]

Hi,

I'm looking to sign up to harris bmo everyday checking acct.
Free with a $1000 balance.

I would like to know if there are any simple ways to transfer $1000+ US from CDN ING or CDN Ally into the new harris account, is it possible?

[angel_wing0]

Hi,

I'm looking to sign up to harris bmo everyday checking acct.
Free with a $1000 balance.

I would like to know if there are any simple ways to transfer $1000+ US from CDN ING or CDN Ally into the new harris account, is it possible?

no it's not. You will have to do a wire...or thru xe from what i have seen here.

[mc_molineux]

Hi,

I'm looking to sign up to harris bmo everyday checking acct.
Free with a $1000 balance.

I would like to know if there are any simple ways to transfer $1000+ US from CDN ING or CDN Ally into the new harris account, is it possible?

Try XE. It's a breeze after the initial setup (which isn't bad at all) and you get a better rate. I've been saving 1% vs. what I would have paid if I had converted directly using RBC at the same time.

[arsh16]

Hello,
Thank you all of you for a very informative post. I have already setup the RBC accounts and traveling to USA on weekend, I want to know how to optimize the use of visa debit card. Should I pay for gas, hotel and food through this card, I mean how many transactions are allowed on this card per month beside the two free ATM per month.

arsh

[ilove]

I'm looking to build credit in the US, and am have been hearing stories that one can setup a chequing account with Bank of America as a Canadian, without any SSN.

Link to options:
https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/index.action?body=check_compare
In particular the MyAccess chequing account doesn't seem too bad sans min balance of $1.5k to waive fees.

So one question is can you then follow up by setting up a BoA credit card?
https://www.bankofamerica.com/credit-cards/view-all-credit-cards.go
In particular, BankAmericard, which is meant for people with bad or no credit.

Also, assuming you setup a BoA chequing account, is it possible to link it with a Canadian-based USD account for EFT? Or are you pretty much limited to bringing cash over the border in order to deposit?
(I guess this question also applies to any other US-based chequing accounts.)

Should also mention, I'm focusing on BoA mostly b/c it is the largest bank in US, and has many branches and ATMs everywhere should you need to access cash.

If this all works, then it seems like a relatively easy process, plus the CC and associated chequing acc will both be integrated into one interface similar to RBC. Can anyone comment?
Is this a viable alternative to other options mentioned in this thread like the RBC or TD routes?

I was going through this thread and was sold on RBC all the way until the new fee, and then realizing that when you're dealing with RBC, you're dealing with a bank that has a track record of doing these things, and hence a high possibility of more fees to follow for services that are currently free.

I opened my BoA chequing account in Blaine. More than 50% of that branch's clientele are Canadians. It's true you don't need a US SSN to open an account. I asked the assistant manager about getting a credit card as a Canadian. She said they will pull your Canadian credit report, so it sounded very much like it could be done. I asked US Bank across the street from them and they flat out said no. So I'm thinking BoA Blaine would be a good place to ask.

[Tharnax]

Hello,
Thank you all of you for a very informative post. I have already setup the RBC accounts and traveling to USA on weekend, I want to know how to optimize the use of visa debit card. Should I pay for gas, hotel and food through this card, I mean how many transactions are allowed on this card per month beside the two free ATM per month.

arsh

Hi Arsh, I'm not aware of any limitations using the visa debt card for transactions. The only limitation is for cash withdrawals at an ATM machine, which seems kind of odd but I believe it is because there can be a fee for using an ATM machine and you can only get a refund on ATM fees for up to two transactions, hence the reason for the limitation on cash withdrawals.

Anyone feel free to correct me if I'm wrong, however, I've had no issue using the visa card debt cards multiple times on the same day but I haven't yet removed US$ cash from an ATM machine using this card.

[mc_molineux]

Hi Arsh, I'm not aware of any limitations using the visa debt card for transactions. The only limitation is for cash withdrawals at an ATM machine, which seems kind of odd but I believe it is because there can be a fee for using an ATM machine and you can only get a refund on ATM fees for up to two transactions, hence the reason for the limitation on cash withdrawals.

Anyone feel free to correct me if I'm wrong, however, I've had no issue using the visa card debt cards multiple times on the same day but I haven't yet removed US$ cash from an ATM machine using this card.

I agree with this. I have not read anything about transaction limits for the Visa debit card.

[CorSter]

I opened my BoA chequing account in Blaine. More than 50% of that branch's clientele are Canadians. It's true you don't need a US SSN to open an account. I asked the assistant manager about getting a credit card as a Canadian. She said they will pull your Canadian credit report, so it sounded very much like it could be done. I asked US Bank across the street from them and they flat out said no. So I'm thinking BoA Blaine would be a good place to ask.

I got rejected trying to open an account at Bank of America, although I was a good 200 miles south of the border by then. I too had picked them because of their large ATM network. Their border locations seem quite accommodating to Canadians, however, so it's important that you go to one close to the border if you want to open an account with them.

I ended up going into to a nearby TD Bank on a whim and was able to open an account there instead - wasn't the ideal solution since many of the places I travel to in the US don't have a TD location, but at least I have something. I considered applying for a US Credit Card, but frankly the VISA Debit card they provide me with is good enough that I don't really need one. Not sure if TD Bank would pull a Canadian Credit Report to issue a card, but their credit cards are nothing special anyways. Still, I may give Bank of America another shot next time i'm in the US, as having to pay ATM fees on the TD account aren't any fun.

[The Shirker]

Has anyone actually been hit with the $2.95 fee in the RBC account? I just logged into my account today for the first time since the transition and I don't see any debits to my account.

[ilove]

Just called BoA in Blaine to ask about getting a US credit card. They said you need a physical US address (not PO box address). If you don't have a physical address you can use a relative, friends, etc. which means you need to have an Amerifriend. They pull your Canadian credit history.

HTH

[Jonavin]

Has anyone actually been hit with the $2.95 fee in the RBC account? I just logged into my account today for the first time since the transition and I don't see any debits to my account.

They don't start charging until June. Many people have gotten it waived for a year.

Side note. Just want to confirm that bill payments to Visa goes immediately now (2 business days). No more of the silly waiting a week to have a check go out, and taking a total of 3 weeks to pay RBC Visa.

[TanGU]

Is it a good idea to :

1) create a US checking account with ING direct (here in canada), 0$ fee / month

2) Ask for a US credit card from RBC : http://www.rbcbank.com/products-and-services/cid-297482.html, seem to be at 0$ fee

That way, i can buy in the US, ship stuff to http://www.freeportforwarding.com, and go get the item myself, then i'll pay the US credit with the US account from ING ?

[DrAcX]

Is it a good idea to :

1) create a US checking account with ING direct (here in canada), 0$ fee / month

2) Ask for a US credit card from RBC : http://www.rbcbank.com/products-and-services/cid-297482.html, seem to be at 0$ fee

That way, i can buy in the US, ship stuff to http://www.freeportforwarding.com, and go get the item myself, then i'll pay the US credit with the US account from ING ?

One question... does ING Direct Canada even have a US chequing account? All I see is the Thrive account which is in CDN$. If they don't this plan doesn't work.

If they do have a US chequing account, you probably cannot pay for the US card electronically (it appears in general US cards are not allowed to be payees of your canadian-based chequing accounts, even if they're USD accounts; you may wish to call ING to verify). However, you can pay by mailing a cheque to the US credit card company using your canadian USD chequing account - but I don't think this is what you had in mind.

[shylok]

Is it a good idea to :

1) create a US checking account with ING direct (here in canada), 0$ fee / month

2) Ask for a US credit card from RBC : http://www.rbcbank.com/products-and-services/cid-297482.html, seem to be at 0$ fee

That way, i can buy in the US, ship stuff to http://www.freeportforwarding.com, and go get the item myself, then i'll pay the US credit with the US account from ING ?

To pay it, you may have to create a US rbc account.. used to be centura.. but sold i believe? which means you have to pay monthly fees etc. worst case you go old school.. write a cheque from ing us dollar account and mail it when you receive your statement..

I'd be really interested to know if what you're suggesting works..

[TanGU]

One question... does ING Direct Canada even have a US chequing account? All I see is the Thrive account which is in CDN$. If they don't this plan doesn't work.

If they do have a US chequing account, you probably cannot pay for the US card electronically (it appears in general US cards are not allowed to be payees of your canadian-based chequing accounts, even if they're USD accounts; you may wish to call ING to verify). However, you can pay by mailing a cheque to the US credit card company using your canadian USD chequing account - but I don't think this is what you had in mind.

ING do have a US checking account, it is well hidden :) --> http://www.ingdirect.ca/en/save-invest/usisa/

but this line bug me a little bit to create one myself :(

Please note the US$ Investment Savings Account is not insured by CDIC

Maybe it's true what you said about paying the US card electronically, i'll try to add my US credit card from RBC soon as i receive the first bill...


To pay it, you may have to create a US rbc account.. used to be centura.. but sold i believe? which means you have to pay monthly fees etc. worst case you go old school.. write a cheque from ing us dollar account and mail it when you receive your statement..

I'd be really interested to know if what you're suggesting works..

Well, so far, US credit card (visa) with RBC is free (did the subscription over the phone), they told me that the account saving US is free too, and it allow you to have 6 transactions per month. It is the checking account that need montly fees. For now, i did not take the US account saving, i'll wait to see if ING had the possibility to pay it...

I'll post an update in 1-2 months when i'll receive my first bill :)

[shylok]

Is there a free rbc Canadian account at all? I believe that you can transfer between rbc us and Canadian accounts instantly and for free. So getting a no fee Canadian one would be gold.

Also, rbc Canadian accounts be able to pay that rbc visa no??

[CorSter]

ING do have a US checking account, it is well hidden :) --> http://www.ingdirect.ca/en/save-invest/usisa/


No. Savings, not Chequing. You can't do anything with it other than withdraw the money at an ING Direct ATM or transfer it to another linked account.

[otown47]

So I attached my RBC USA Credit Card to my Paypal account then called Paypal and told them it was a US Credit Card...they said all is fine. Then I used this credit card to buy something from the US thru Paypal...it worked. Then I checked my Credit Card account and saw that RBC had charged me an extra fee of 2.5% on the purchase even though there was no currency conversion. I called RBC and they said because it was from Paypal Canada (a Canadian company) the transaction was subject to the extra charge. They refunded the charge as a one time courtesy. So it looks like I will have to set up a Paypal US account....I wonder if a Canadian can do this?

thx

[mc_molineux]

So it looks like I will have to set up a Paypal US account....I wonder if a Canadian can do this?

Yeah, many on this thread have done this. You just need a US address and a US credit card.

[fredder]

So I attached my RBC USA Credit Card to my Paypal account then called Paypal and told them it was a US Credit Card...they said all is fine. Then I used this credit card to buy something from the US thru Paypal...it worked. Then I checked my Credit Card account and saw that RBC had charged me an extra fee of 2.5% on the purchase even though there was no currency conversion. I called RBC and they said because it was from Paypal Canada (a Canadian company) the transaction was subject to the extra charge. They refunded the charge as a one time courtesy. So it looks like I will have to set up a Paypal US account....I wonder if a Canadian can do this?

thx

Must be an RBC thing.

I attached my TD US $ Credit Card to PayPal Canada account.
I've never been charged extra fees by TD when buying stuff that way.

[mc_molineux]

Must be an RBC thing.

I attached my TD US $ Credit Card to PayPal Canada account.
I've never been charged extra fees by TD when buying stuff that way.

Is that credit card with a US TD branch, or a Canadian one? (TD Bank USA vs. TD Canada Trust)

[fredder]

Is that credit card with a US TD branch, or a Canadian one? (TD Bank USA vs. TD Canada Trust)

Canadian TD branch.

[mc_molineux]

Canadian TD branch.

That's because it's a Canadian card. If your card is based in Canada (even though it is denominated in USD) and you are using it on Paypal Canada, there wouldn't be any cross-border issues, because both are located in the same country.

These RBC cards are different. They are actually based in the US, not just Canadian cards in USD.

[TanGU]

No. Savings, not Chequing. You can't do anything with it other than withdraw the money at an ING Direct ATM or transfer it to another linked account.

Yes savings...sorry

I didn't know about that withdrawal thing, that is useless...


That's because it's a Canadian card. If your card is based in Canada (even though it is denominated in USD) and you are using it on Paypal Canada, there wouldn't be any cross-border issues, because both are located in the same country.

These RBC cards are different. They are actually based in the US, not just Canadian cards in USD.

So, to create a US paypal + US credit card, can we use any PO box in the US ? any other trick ?

[mc_molineux]

Yes savings...sorry

I didn't know about that withdrawal thing, that is useless...



So, to create a US paypal + US credit card, can we use any PO box in the US ? any other trick ?

You need a CC that is actually based in the USA. Also, the billing address on that card has to be in the US, or Paypal won't accept it, it seems. That is the billing address, not a secondary address or anything like that.

Apparently with RBC you can have a mailing address and billing address that are different. I was told that statements etc. would go to mailing address, and the only thing that would ever go to the billing address would be a new card if they had to mail out one. So I have my mailing address at home in Canada and my billing address at the parcel service across the border.

Not very intuitive though... they mail cards to the billing address and bills to the mailing address.

[halflife150]

You need a CC that is actually based in the USA. Also, the billing address on that card has to be in the US, or Paypal won't accept it, it seems. That is the billing address, not a secondary address or anything like that.

Apparently with RBC you can have a mailing address and billing address that are different. I was told that statements etc. would go to mailing address, and the only thing that would ever go to the billing address would be a new card if they had to mail out one. So I have my mailing address at home in Canada and my billing address at the parcel service across the border.

Not very intuitive though... they mail cards to the billing address and bills to the mailing address.

Many people have posted regarding USA CC's and paypal issues. I haven't experienced any of those problems. I can make all USD purchases with my Canadian paypal account using USD. Was even given the option to either allow paypal or cc to do the forex conversion. So I don't know why you would need a USD paypal account. Plus it is against paypal rules to have multiple accounts, and it's a stupid rule, but if ever caught, could end up with all accounts closed.

[mc_molineux]

Many people have posted regarding USA CC's and paypal issues. I haven't experienced any of those problems. I can make all USD purchases with my Canadian paypal account using USD. Was even given the option to either allow paypal or cc to do the forex conversion. So I don't know why you would need a USD paypal account. Plus it is against paypal rules to have multiple accounts, and it's a stupid rule, but if ever caught, could end up with all accounts closed.

You can link your US-based CC (such as the RBC Visa) to your Canadian paypal account? If so, why would there be a forex conversion at all?

[halflife150]

You can link your US-based CC (such as the RBC Visa) to your Canadian paypal account? If so, why would there be a forex conversion at all?

I don't know since I've never been charged a forex fee, but I've linked it and used it and no fees. I don't know what I'm doing different from the person who got charged. Maybe it is a merchant issue? Can a merchant tell where the paypal account is located, and then maybe charge in CAD or something without you realizing? Maybe the merchants I buy from don't do that? I'm just saying my experience is different from what others have said.

[otown47]

I don't know since I've never been charged a forex fee, but I've linked it and used it and no fees. I don't know what I'm doing different from the person who got charged. Maybe it is a merchant issue? Can a merchant tell where the paypal account is located, and then maybe charge in CAD or something without you realizing? Maybe the merchants I buy from don't do that? I'm just saying my experience is different from what others have said.

That was me and it wasn't a merchant issue. My transaction was
US Merchant to Can Paypal - USD, no fee
Can Paypal to US CC (RBC BANK Georgia)- USD, fee (RBC said it was because Can Paypal was a Can co)

There may be some confusion here between RBC Bank Georgia US CC and RBC Can US CC
..who knows......

[emoci]

I don't know since I've never been charged a forex fee, but I've linked it and used it and no fees. I don't know what I'm doing different from the person who got charged. Maybe it is a merchant issue? Can a merchant tell where the paypal account is located, and then maybe charge in CAD or something without you realizing? Maybe the merchants I buy from don't do that? I'm just saying my experience is different from what others have said.

I suspect the issue is that PayPal by default automatically does its own conversion. If you have a Canada based acct, it tends to automatically convert transactions to CAD at PayPal's own rate. However .... you do have the option (albeit not very easily visible) to have PayPal not do this conversion and pass on the transaction as is.

[halflife150]

I suspect the issue is that PayPal by default automatically does its own conversion. If you have a Canada based acct, it tends to automatically convert transactions to CAD at PayPal's own rate. However .... you do have the option (albeit not very easily visible) to have PayPal not do this conversion and pass on the transaction as is.

Ya, that may be the issue, because I know I was given the option, I can't remember what I selected. Probably to pass on the conversion to the credit card.

[otown47]

I suspect the issue is that PayPal by default automatically does its own conversion. If you have a Canada based acct, it tends to automatically convert transactions to CAD at PayPal's own rate. However .... you do have the option (albeit not very easily visible) to have PayPal not do this conversion and pass on the transaction as is.

No, Paypal left the US transaction in US. When I added the US CC to Paypal I called and reminded them that it was US.

In my case the US purchase amount was what showed up on my card to the penny. There was an extra item on the CC as a Cross Border Fee.

[otown47]

The only company I can find to convert CAN to USD and transfer via EFT is XE.....the others seem to want to use Wire. Are there other EFT cos out there?

thx...

[halflife150]

No, Paypal left the US transaction in US. When I added the US CC to Paypal I called and reminded them that it was US.

In my case the US purchase amount was what showed up on my card to the penny. There was an extra item on the CC as a Cross Border Fee.

Maybe have paypal convert the amount rather than the credit card then, sounds like it was the cc provider that added the amount, or if that is how you have it setup already, than just do the opposite of whatever you're doing now. Because whatever I have setup, I don't get hit with a cross border fee, but like I said, maybe it isn't with paypal at all but with the merchant. I just learned about those recently when I used one of my cc's outside Canada. It is another stupid money grab fee. Hopefully with the Chase Visa, competition will force more Canadian cc's will follow and get rid of forex/cross border fees.

[otown47]

Maybe have paypal convert the amount rather than the credit card then, sounds like it was the cc provider that added the amount, or if that is how you have it setup already, than just do the opposite of whatever you're doing now. Because whatever I have setup, I don't get hit with a cross border fee, but like I said, maybe it isn't with paypal at all but with the merchant. I just learned about those recently when I used one of my cc's outside Canada. It is another stupid money grab fee. Hopefully with the Chase Visa, competition will force more Canadian cc's will follow and get rid of forex/cross border fees.

As i mentioned above, there is nothing to convert......

[smokey1384]

Hey has anyone used the TD US credit card to make successful on-line purchases? ie.shipping within US

I saw someone said the RBC US credit card works fine. I believe this is because card is true US based bank card.
Is this the case with the TD credit cards? Are they US bank based? Maybe there is a specific card from TD US bank division?

[angel_wing0]

Hey has anyone used the TD US credit card to make successful on-line purchases? ie.shipping within US

I saw someone said the RBC US credit card works fine. I believe this is because card is true US based bank card.
Is this the case with the TD credit cards? Are they US bank based? Maybe there is a specific card from TD US bank division?

http://www.tdbank.com/personalcreditcard/personalcreditcards.html

[TD_Canada]

Hey @smokey1384. My name's Chris and I work for TD. A TD US Dollar Visa Card can be used anywhere Visa Credit Cards are accepted, including for online purchases with stores based in the US, or anywhere else in the world. If you need more specific assistance, please give us a call.

[mc_molineux]

Hey @smokey1384. My name's Chris and I work for TD. A TD US Dollar Visa Card can be used anywhere Visa Credit Cards are accepted, including for online purchases with stores based in the US, or anywhere else in the world. If you need more specific assistance, please give us a call.

That's not true. Many US online retailers block Visa cards that are issued in Canada.

[halflife150]

http://www.tdbank.com/personalcreditcard/personalcreditcards.html

Ya but can you even get that card? From my understanding based on these threads, the only 2 places you can currently get a US based cc are RBC and possibly BOA ymmv at each branch, and BOA requires a USA address.

[angel_wing0]

Ya but can you even get that card? From my understanding based on these threads, the only 2 places you can currently get a US based cc are RBC and possibly BOA ymmv at each branch, and BOA requires a USA address.

That i m not sure. Brunes should know as he is a current client. But my guess is you would be able to base on your TD Canada history.

[smokey1384]

That's not true. Many US online retailers block Visa cards that are issued in Canada.


I read on RFD that sometimes the reason that online purchases are declined is due to address mismatch or card processors don't allow non-US addresses/cards.

No issues reported in the case of RBC US cards because it's a true US based card I assume.

The RBC US card is a better card for US online purchases?

Does TD have both a US based and CAN based US dollar cards?

[angel_wing0]

Does TD have both a US based and CAN based US dollar cards?

yes.

[mc_molineux]

I read on RFD that sometimes the reason that online purchases are declined is due to address mismatch or card processors don't allow non-US addresses/cards.

No issues reported in the case of RBC US cards because it's a true US based card I assume.

The RBC US card is a better card for US online purchases?

Yes to all, although sometimes the address does require tweaking. Since most of us don't want our RBC mail going to our US address, we have to keep a Canadian address on file (along with our US ones), which some of the really picky online retailing systems don't like. You can always call RBC and change your address for a day or so, then place your orders and change it back. The CSRs have often mentioned this on the phone.

[angel_wing0]

Yes to all, although sometimes the address does require tweaking. Since most of us don't want our RBC mail going to our US address, we have to keep a Canadian address on file (along with our US ones), which some of the really picky online retailing systems don't like. You can always call RBC and change your address for a day or so, then place your orders and change it back. The CSRs have often mentioned this on the phone.

indeed *thumbs up*

[halflife150]

That i m not sure. Brunes should know as he is a current client. But my guess is you would be able to base on your TD Canada history.

Ya I think that is the person's information who I am relying on, I believe he said you can't get a US based TD card without SSN.

[angel_wing0]

Ya I think that is the person's information who I am relying on, I believe he said you can't get a US based TD card without SSN.

Oh lol, then guess we will wait for what he says then.

[otown47]

With the RBC Georgia CC, you can specify 2 addresses and call to switch them any time you want. So if you're travelling in the US you would switch to your US address a few days ahead. Then when you buy gas you can enter your US ZIP and you won't have to go inside to (pre)arrange payment. Statements are mailed to the address you have switched to at statement time. When you come back to Canada you call and switch back your address.

This is convenient !!!!

[mc_molineux]

Actually you can have multiple addresses for multiple purposes within your account, according to the RBC CSR I spoke with.


Apparently with RBC you can have a mailing address and billing address that are different. I was told that statements etc. would go to mailing address, and the only thing that would ever go to the billing address would be a new card if they had to mail out one. So I have my mailing address at home in Canada and my billing address at the parcel service across the border.

Not very intuitive though... they mail cards to the billing address and bills to the mailing address.

This arrangement was also noted much earlier in the thread several months ago... a lot of us in the thread have done it this way. Unfortunately it did cause some troubles when the new cards were mailed out following the PNC sale and people's cards went to the USA.

[shylok]

Is there any cashback, points etc from the USA RBC cards we can get?

If someone does a lot of US shopping this would be ultra useful.

From what I understand we have two options.

A RBC CC and a RBC Debit Visa.
These both allow instant transfers/bill payments onto them from RBC Canada bank accounts? possibly business accounts?

[otown47]

Actually you can have multiple addresses for multiple purposes within your account, according to the RBC CSR I spoke with.
This arrangement was also noted much earlier in the thread several months ago... a lot of us in the thread have done it this way. Unfortunately it did cause some troubles when the new cards were mailed out following the PNC sale and people's cards went to the USA.

With the CC you can only have one active address at a time...everything goes to that address. They will keep two addresses on file which you can switch via a phone call.

The mailing/billing address situation you refer to is for the bank statement.

[mc_molineux]

With the CC you can only have one active address at a time...everything goes to that address. They will keep two addresses on file which you can switch via a phone call.

The mailing/billing address situation you refer to is for the bank statement.

That's not what the CSR told me. We were clearly talking about the credit card. And other people earlier in the thread reported doing this too.

[angel_wing0]

With the CC you can only have one active address at a time...everything goes to that address. They will keep two addresses on file which you can switch via a phone call.

The mailing/billing address situation you refer to is for the bank statement.

you can do it for both actually afaik.

[stevco]

Just called BoA in Blaine to ask about getting a US credit card. They said you need a physical US address (not PO box address). If you don't have a physical address you can use a relative, friends, etc. which means you need to have an Amerifriend. They pull your Canadian credit history.

HTH
Thanks! I can confirm everything you say above... Just did this today at BoA in Blaine. Set up a chequing account and did a credit card application at the same time. The place was full of other Canadians doing the same thing!!

[angel_wing0]

Thanks! I can confirm everything you say above... Just did this today at BoA in Blaine. Set up a chequing account and did a credit card application at the same time. The place was full of other Canadians doing the same thing!!

do u have to do it in person or can be done online? I guess they will be sending the stuff to the US address instead of the CDN one or can a CDN one be added?

EDIT: actually it can be done online, so that one is answered :D

[stevco]

do u have to do it in person or can be done online? I guess they will be sending the stuff to the US address instead of the CDN one or can a CDN one be added?

EDIT: actually it can be done online, so that one is answered :D

From what I understand, the chequing account bank card will be sent to my CDN home address but the credit card has to go to the US address.

[ilove]

Thanks! I can confirm everything you say above... Just did this today at BoA in Blaine. Set up a chequing account and did a credit card application at the same time. The place was full of other Canadians doing the same thing!!

Should have capitalized on the referral bonus. Up to $75 I believe.

[angel_wing0]

From what I understand, the chequing account bank card will be sent to my CDN home address but the credit card has to go to the US address.

nice, should give this a try.


Should have capitalized on the referral bonus. Up to $75 I believe. OH even better.

[TanGU]

Wow i finally have my RBC US credit card.

It was a little bit complicated :)

1) called RBC, took the US credit card, no fee
2) called RBC again, to have a US saving account, done, no fee (but need a minimum of 300$ in it all the time)
They inform me that i won't be able to pay my CC with this account online, i need a checking account (2.95$/months) to do this, but i can call in, and pay it over the phone with a online rep asking to move money from the Saving account on the CC, i am okay with that.

But how can i put money into the US saving account? so:

3) Took a schedule with a local RBC bank to create:

a) a RBC canadian saving account: no fee

b) by doing that, they also have to create a checking account to get the ATM card, but i have to cancel the checking account myself afterward
4) Then i'll have to link my ING direct.ca US account to the US canadian saving account, so i then i will be able to move that money to the US saving account directly online on RBC web site (witch i'll have US and CAN account)

Finally, i have to deposit 300$ US into the US saving account within 1 month or my account will be cancelled.

It is a little bit complicated, but all free :)

[bigbug]

Why so much hassle with US$ Credit card? This is what I've done and very easy:

1. If you don't need US billing address, just get a BMO US$ credit card. It charges $25 annual fee, but they are going to waive it for the first year if you open it at the branch, and waive them afterward if each year you spend over $1000.

2. If you do need a US billing address, call AMEX if you already have an AMEX credit card. It's very easy to get one open in US, as long as you have a US address that can receive the card and the first statement. After that you can change the address online to anything you like. I changed my billing address to a cross-border shopping site so that I can have my US purchase shipped to there.

[brunes]

2. If you do need a US billing address, call AMEX if you already have an AMEX credit card. It's very easy to get one open in US, as long as you have a US address that can receive the card and the first statement. After that you can change the address online to anything you like. I changed my billing address to a cross-border shopping site so that I can have my US purchase shipped to there.
I'd like more details on how you accomplished this because when I attempted to do a global transfer I had to provide a utility bill or other proof of actual residence at that address (bank statement was not enough)

[bigbug]

I'd like more details on how you accomplished this because when I attempted to do a global transfer I had to provide a utility bill or other proof of actual residence at that address (bank statement was not enough)

Maybe they changed their policy? When I asked for my US AMEX card I didn't need to provide any prove. However not every AMEX phone rep understands this kind of transfer. The first one I called just told me it can't be done. I called a second time, the other rep was more knowledgeable.

[shylok]

Maybe they changed their policy? When I asked for my US AMEX card I didn't need to provide any prove. However not every AMEX phone rep understands this kind of transfer. The first one I called just told me it can't be done. I called a second time, the other rep was more knowledgeable.

How long ago was this

[halflife150]

Friendly reminder to all those with RBCBANK, either during or after June you start getting charged $1 for paper statements. So don't forget to switch, unless you don't mind paying $1 for paper.

[Innis]

Friendly reminder to all those with RBCBANK, either during or after June you start getting charged $1 for paper statements. So don't forget to switch, unless you don't mind paying $1 for paper.

Anyone try and make the RBC Bank Credit Card have estatements as well? Or does US law still require statements be mailed on credit products?

[halflife150]

Anyone try and make the RBC Bank Credit Card have estatements as well? Or does US law still require statements be mailed on credit products?

I don't think you can do it online if you can because I didn't see the option. Only regular accounts were available, maybe have to call in and try.

[Stetson717]

I have a joint checking account with my american fiance through chase. Has anyone had any success applying for a cc through chase or would going through BOA be my best bet?

[herbeapuce]

Hi...

I'm Canadian and I got no US SN.

now if I open a TD Band US banking account they are offering me a debit card that can also be used as a credit card. all I have to do is, go to the States and open the account, (I will provide my brother's address in USA for that account) deposit an amount in the account... , now my question is

is the kind of card they are offering me good , just like a regular visa, and any online retail store will gladly accept it? or it''s not the same as a normal credit card ? restrictions ?

thank for your help.

(please also if someone has recently successfully got a regular US credit card, someone with no US SN. no US credit report, please PM me if you want to share how you did it. I will need some help on this... I'm a slow learner...hehe...I'm in Montreal also. thanks )

[DrAcX]

(please also if someone has recently successfully got a regular US credit card, someone with no US SN. no US credit report, please PM me if you want to share how you did it. I will need some help on this... I'm a slow learner...hehe...I'm in Montreal also. thanks )

Here:
http://forums.redflagdeals.com/us-banking-credit-cards-canadians-1169910/#post14649989

[mc_molineux]

is the kind of card they are offering me good , just like a regular visa, and any online retail store will gladly accept it? or it''s not the same as a normal credit card ? restrictions ?
Places will accept it, but you can only put on the card what you have in the account, just like a Canadian debit card.

[nejnedau]

Hi all, I went through the RBC deal for US banking, most of the people that did it, moved on to a local bank when we got to Florida. and thought I'd post on it, For getting Visa etc, when they say is there anything else I can do? ask away, A line of credit there is what we call overdraft protection here though, I was approved for 3 grand, then asked for more , and had to submit a financial statement and they gave me 8. I asked why will they give me 250 K here, and she then explained that it was an overdraft . and a $25 annual fee. so I cancelled it. As far as using the ATM portion of the RBC usa card. I could only use it a Hess gas station in my area which are scarce, I opened an account at the closest bank next to the place I have in Tampa now. took 3 minutes, you just say snow bird and need a place to safely store spending money, they use 0's for SSN .I used my address there so I can hook paypal up and voila.

[Saltywetguy]

Hi Everyone,

I was just curious if the US address has to be a physical address. Can it be one of those mail forwarding or mail box (not a PO Box)?

I was thinking of using a mail forwarding service if this will work. I can find something in Blaine or Bellingham... since i'm in Surrey.

I forgot to ask one more question, has anyone tried getting a Chase and/or a Capital One credit card/bank account in Blaine or Bellingham?

Can someone who has tried this give some insight? I know this will work for shipping orders. Thank you for your feedback.

[mc_molineux]

Hi Everyone,

I was just curious if the US address has to be a physical address. Can it be one of those mail forwarding or mail box (not a PO Box)?

I was thinking of using a mail forwarding service if this will work. I can find something in Blaine or Bellingham... since i'm in Surrey.

I forgot to ask one more question, has anyone tried getting a Chase and/or a Capital One credit card/bank account in Blaine or Bellingham?

Can someone who has tried this give some insight? I know this will work for shipping orders. Thank you for your feedback.

With RBC you can use your Canadian address to sign up, and then add a US shipping address. The shipping address can be the border parcel service, yes.

[theBeachBoy]

Hi...

I'm Canadian and I got no US SN.

now if I open a TD Band US banking account they are offering me a debit card that can also be used as a credit card. all I have to do is, go to the States and open the account, (I will provide my brother's address in USA for that account) deposit an amount in the account... , now my question is

is the kind of card they are offering me good , just like a regular visa, and any online retail store will gladly accept it? or it''s not the same as a normal credit card ? restrictions ?

thank for your help.

(please also if someone has recently successfully got a regular US credit card, someone with no US SN. no US credit report, please PM me if you want to share how you did it. I will need some help on this... I'm a slow learner...hehe...I'm in Montreal also. thanks )


For your first question:

you debit card allows you to buy online like a credit card (in my case I did not have any issue yet doing so)

I have bought stuff online worth more than my credit card limit, so I have used my debit card as a credit card and it worked no problem...

For your second question:

You should be able to open one anytime.

Just drive to Swanton or Alburgh, VT.

The Swanton People's United Bank is opened on Saturdays, but require you to have a minimum balance or else you pay monthly fees.
The Alburgh North Country Credit Union has no minimum monthly but it's closed on saturdays. It closes at 5:30 on fridays.

You can use your canadian address, and your canadian driver's licence. No need for SSN, they will make you fill a W-8 form.

You open your bank account, get money in, then you start by a prepaid credit card (i.e. you need to feed it before using it).
Later you'll get a real credit card.

You should be able to add your US bank account to xetrade and deposit direct from your canadian bank to US bank (low exchange rates and no ACH fees).
And you use that to pay for your credit card.

I am opening a new account on June 22nd (switching from People's to North Country, I can ask them if that's how it works. In my case I have a US SN but still need to fill out W-8 since I am not a US resident. I use my US address though.

No need to drive to a TD Bank branch, which is quite far compared to Alburgh.

[Stetson717]

I have a joint checking account with my american fiance through chase. Has anyone had any success applying for a cc through chase or would going through BOA be my best bet?

Sorry for bringing up my question again but i'm not sure if it was overlooked as it was at the end of the previous page

[Saltywetguy]

Sorry for bringing up my question again but i'm not sure if it was overlooked as it was at the end of the previous page

Hey Stetson717,
I think the best thing to do is to speak with a Chase account manager and see if you can apply to one of their unsecured credit cards.
I think all that is required is your picture ID's (2 of them, IE drivers license/passport), Canadian Credit Report, US address/mailbox (no po box) and a US Bill (utility or tax, etc)

If the answer is no, then ask for a secured credit card, work your way down... see if there's a list of options that they can provide you.
If Chase doesn't give you an US credit card, you can apply to their Chase Amazon.ca credit card, it doesn't have any forex fees!
Your other option is go for BOA and start getting your US Credit History, then apply again after about 6 months or a year to Chase.

[studolf]

So if you get the US Amex card, do you have to pay your bills in US currency, or is it linked to your Canadian Card?

[Stetson717]

Hey Stetson717,
I think the best thing to do is to speak with a Chase account manager and see if you can apply to one of their unsecured credit cards.
I think all that is required is your picture ID's (2 of them, IE drivers license/passport), Canadian Credit Report, US address/mailbox (no po box) and a US Bill (utility or tax, etc)

If the answer is no, then ask for a secured credit card, work your way down... see if there's a list of options that they can provide you.
If Chase doesn't give you an US credit card, you can apply to their Chase Amazon.ca credit card, it doesn't have any forex fees!
Your other option is go for BOA and start getting your US Credit History, then apply again after about 6 months or a year to Chase.

Thank you very much for the response. Will look into your suggestions

[halflife150]

For the people not going RBC route, what is the reason? Seems kind of silly going through all this extra trouble given RBC is ridiculously easy to open and is integrated with Canadian side so that you can easily move money back and forth immediately between accounts.

[Messerschmitt]

I opened an account with Bank of America using my canadian address. Just some info for you guys if you are concerned not having a US address

[shylok]

For the people not going RBC route, what is the reason? Seems kind of silly going through all this extra trouble given RBC is ridiculously easy to open and is integrated with Canadian side so that you can easily move money back and forth immediately between accounts.

Was just about to post asking if it was easy to move between Canadian and US account. Is the exchange good?

I'd want to move it then purchase items. Doesn't matter to me if it's Visa debit vs Visa credit.

I already have a Canadian rbc business account. Do I open a US business centura,(is it still called that?)

where does visa debit go? USA Addy? Then can change to po box?

[theBeachBoy]

For the people not going RBC route, what is the reason? Seems kind of silly going through all this extra trouble given RBC is ridiculously easy to open and is integrated with Canadian side so that you can easily move money back and forth immediately between accounts.

This thread shows that's opening and linking the RBC stuff is far from easy, with all these rep phone calls, and transfer this and that. Seems to be more hassle than simply opening an account in the US and using xetrade to put money in, with a much better rate than RBC.

For me it's to be able to transfer money using xetrade or calforex without having to pay RBC forex rates.
Also, I wanted a fully independant US account/credit card that is linked to my US address (so I have the same US billing and shipping address for many internet sites that doesn't allow a canadian billing address even with a US credit card)
Finally, I like my capital one account since it has zero fees, whatever the amount, "high" interest rate and I get my US cheques to pay for utilities or other US stuff.

[halflife150]

This thread shows that's opening and linking the RBC stuff is far from easy, with all these rep phone calls, and transfer this and that. Seems to be more hassle than simply opening an account in the US and using xetrade to put money in, with a much better rate than RBC.

For me it's to be able to transfer money using xetrade or calforex without having to pay RBC forex rates.
Also, I wanted a fully independant US account/credit card that is linked to my US address (so I have the same US billing and shipping address for many internet sites that doesn't allow a canadian billing address even with a US credit card)
Finally, I like my capital one account since it has zero fees, whatever the amount, "high" interest rate and I get my US cheques to pay for utilities or other US stuff.

I was just wondering because it seems every few days someone new posts about opening a US account in the very thread that fully answers that question. So are they just being dumb/lazy and not reading the thread, or did they read it and conclude that RBC was not offering something they were looking for. I don't know how much easier it could be to open an RBCBANK account, just make an appointment at RBC and open one. Not that complex, have to wait for an email/code in mail to register for online banking, but that is it. I don't see what is too complex about it, don't need anything American to open one.

Your situation sounds like different in that you already have a US address and maybe spend a quite a bit of time down there. Maybe you require branch access or have better ATM access. A US address seems to be one of the biggest hurdles for successfully getting a US account and cc, RBCBANK is one of the few that do not have that hurdle, making it pretty easy for many Canadians. With the exception of the fee/branch access, RBCBank offers the same as your bank, but with the added bonus of cross border integration so I can easily transfer cash back and forth between my USD accounts in Canada/US. If the fee is the reason people are trying for other accounts, I think most people have been able to waive that fee. Also, most people asking about US accounts seem to be asking about ones that require min. balances, which is a fee of not earning interest. If you need to keep a min. balance of a couple hundred or more, you might as well just go with RBC, it becomes cheaper once you consider the lost interest on the min. balance.

Though you're more than welcome to share your US bank experience and requirements to getting one. So far, RBCBANK and TDBank are the two that have been fully documented by others on how to get one. I've heard of Harris bank and BOA, but I think both require US addresses and I think neither are integrated with anything cross border.

[halflife150]

Was just about to post asking if it was easy to move between Canadian and US account. Is the exchange good?

I'd want to move it then purchase items. Doesn't matter to me if it's Visa debit vs Visa credit.

I already have a Canadian rbc business account. Do I open a US business centura,(is it still called that?)

where does visa debit go? USA Addy? Then can change to po box?

I have no idea about the exchange rate, since I'm only moving USD from Canada to US so no exchange is happening. With the exception of purchasing from certain American companies online that only accept US CC's, there isn't a reason to get a USD account if you don't have USD source income. If the only reason you're getting the account is to purchase USD stuff, and you aren't being restricted because it isn't a US based CC, just get the Chase Amazon cc, it is in CAD, but has no forex fees, no annual fee, and offers 1% cash back.

[CorSter]

I was just wondering because it seems every few days someone new posts about opening a US account in the very thread that fully answers that question. So are they just being dumb/lazy and not reading the thread, or did they read it and conclude that RBC was not offering something they were looking for. I don't know how much easier it could be to open an RBCBANK account, just make an appointment at RBC and open one. Not that complex, have to wait for an email/code in mail to register for online banking, but that is it. I don't see what is too complex about it, don't need anything American to open one.

so far, RBCBANK and TDBank are the two that have been fully documented by others on how to get one. I've heard of Harris bank and BOA, but I think both require US addresses and I think neither are integrated with anything cross border.

1) You need a Canadian RBC Account to make use of it
2) There is a monthly fee for the RBC US account - which for many people defeats the purpose of having a US bank account for occasional use.

Harris lets Canadians open bank accounts on their website - no US address needed.
TD Bank doesn't require a US address either, although you do need to visit a branch to open the account.
BOA doesn't require a US address for bank accounts (they do require one for credit cards), but you do need to visit a branch in a border city to open the account (most BOA branches don't generally open accounts for non-residents and don't know how, the ones near the border are used to it)
Key Bank lets Canadians open accounts in person, but you may need a US address and no online banking access without a SSN.

[mc_molineux]

If the only reason you're getting the account is to purchase USD stuff, and you aren't being restricted because it isn't a US based CC, just get the Chase Amazon cc, it is in CAD, but has no forex fees, no annual fee, and offers 1% cash back.
Many of us are doing it because we are restricted.

Also, using the Chase Card would force one to take the exchange rate prevailing at the time of purchase, rather than allowing us to "stock up" on USD when the rate is good (a few months ago vs. recent weeks, for instance).

[theBeachBoy]

Though you're more than welcome to share your US bank experience and requirements to getting one. So far, RBCBANK and TDBank are the two that have been fully documented by others on how to get one. I've heard of Harris bank and BOA, but I think both require US addresses and I think neither are integrated with anything cross border.

You're right, I think no other canadian bank has integrated US operations. The other options are US-based banks and required to fill out W-8 form (so I don't think it's possible over the phone or internet)

But if you drive over the border to open an account, with your Canadian address, you can transfer money back and forth with xetrade online.
It's not instant though, takes up to a week. But the rates are good.

I think for light use it's fine to have RBC.

For heavy use (I spend more on my US card than Canadian card... I buy everything short of food online in the states), the US credit cards are MUCH better in terms of rewards/perks.
I also put a lot of cash in my US account when I get par or better. I have not bought USD under par for a looong time now.

[angel_wing0]

You're right, I think no other canadian bank has integrated US operations...

Well for TD it's pretty close (can transfer money thru easyweb 5k per day iirc), the only bad thing is u have to open the account in an US TD branch.

[shylok]

Wire transfers, need to pay US companies the same day by wire. Is this possible from any of the accounts you guys have opened? Like the RBC one? Any way to do it online?

[halflife150]

1) You need a Canadian RBC Account to make use of it
2) There is a monthly fee for the RBC US account - which for many people defeats the purpose of having a US bank account for occasional use.

Harris lets Canadians open bank accounts on their website - no US address needed.
TD Bank doesn't require a US address either, although you do need to visit a branch to open the account.
BOA doesn't require a US address for bank accounts (they do require one for credit cards), but you do need to visit a branch in a border city to open the account (most BOA branches don't generally open accounts for non-residents and don't know how, the ones near the border are used to it)
Key Bank lets Canadians open accounts in person, but you may need a US address and no online banking access without a SSN.

Thanks for the summary. Didn't know about Harris, can confirm that online app. has spots for Canadian information, I thought RBC was the only one you can open within Canada. Good to know Harris has that option. Further questions regarding Harris are if it is integrated with BMO so you can move money for free/quickly between the two companies, and can you open cc/credit without US SSN/Address, because I couldn't find any online app. for credit. Anyways, Harris bank has fees or high enough min. balances that make it equal to fees with RBCBank, so other then branch access, may not offer anything that would warrant Harris over RBC. The rest of the banks require open in US branch and US address for cc, but that for many people prevents them from opening an account/cc, leaving RBCBank as really the only option.

As to your points. 1. That's a non-issue since they offer a free account, so no barrier there. 2. True, but many people have got that waived for a year. Even if you don't, there aren't many or for lots of people, zero alternatives. Other accounts either require a min. balance which is an imputed fee so no benefit(ie. Harris), or require a US address for credit(all other banks other than RBC??), which I'm assuming is one of the main reasons people are opening US based accounts in the first place. So even if you are using for occasional purposes, RFD has searched as a whole and come to the conclusion RBC is best/only solution. If you have a US address then you definitely have extra options, but then you probably aren't a occasional user since you live/vacation there quite a bit. But I'm all for better options if someone can provide them, so far RFD has said RBCBank.


Many of us are doing it because we are restricted.

Also, using the Chase Card would force one to take the exchange rate prevailing at the time of purchase, rather than allowing us to "stock up" on USD when the rate is good (a few months ago vs. recent weeks, for instance).

I know a lot of people think the same way you do, but it is completely irrational. You are basically saying you are a gazillionaire. Why? Because you just said you know when the rate is "good", alluding that you are capable of predicting the movements of the forex market, so with your crystal ball I'm assuming you've been able to make gazillion dollars with your trading profits. We all know that is untrue, the future is unpredictable, the currency good just as easily go up or down in the future, so all that matters is the current forex rate and the extra fees on top of that. Chase Amazon has no fees, possibly a very tiny spread, but it is the cheapest method of buying foreign stuff with CAD. But I agree with you for restriction. Only two reasons for a US cc, either you have US source income to pay it off, or you are being restricted from US online dealers because they only accept US based cc. If you are one of those two camps, the hassle of getting US accounts is probably worth it.


Well for TD it's pretty close (can transfer money thru easyweb 5k per day iirc), the only bad thing is u have to open the account in an US TD branch.

Ya and there branches have horrible locations, all east coast, and the only one I could find close to a borders, was by Montreal I think. Not ideal for a quick border hop opening. If it weren't for that, TDBank would be a decent option, it is much cheaper, min. $100 balance to waive fees. But from my understanding, still no access to TD credit without SSN/US address.


Wire transfers, need to pay US companies the same day by wire. Is this possible from any of the accounts you guys have opened? Like the RBC one? Any way to do it online?

RBCBank is a regular US based bank, albeit completely online, so you can do everything just like any other US bank, and I'm assuming you can do wires either online or over the phone since they have no branches to physically go into. I'm assuming you would have to set that up and sign some waiver and fax it it or something.

[mc_molineux]

I know a lot of people think the same way you do, but it is completely irrational. You are basically saying you are a gazillionaire. Why? Because you just said you know when the rate is "good", alluding that you are capable of predicting the movements of the forex market, so with your crystal ball I'm assuming you've been able to make gazillion dollars with your trading profits. We all know that is untrue, the future is unpredictable, the currency good just as easily go up or down in the future, so all that matters is the current forex rate and the extra fees on top of that.
Fair enough. Of course you are correct theoretically. But practically, in the past five years or so the CAD has moved up and down within a range of +-10%. Based on that, I currently consider par or better "good", and less "bad". But really, having a USD account is the best of both. If I keep reserves of USD, I can choose to either spend them, or take the prevailing rate at the time of my purchase and save my reserves for later. Yes, the rate could drop further, meaning I should have taken the prevailing rate on the purchase and held the USD for a later purchase, but if the rate goes too low, then I just won't cross-border shop.

It's basically hedging. It allows you to "lock in" at a rate that you are comfortable paying rather than gambling on what the prevailing rate will be when you need it.

[Jonavin]

Those who still don't have their $2.95/month RBC fee waived should call in. I just got my fees waived for a year. The $2.95 they already deducted is put back into my account. I think if more people complain about the fees they might re-consider. I just told them my friend (all you people in this thread) has the same account and got it waived.

They have a savings account that only allows 6 debit items/month but costs $5/month in fees with it waived at $300. Need to look into this some more to see what other limitations it has. I primarily use my RBC USA Visa anyways and the account is just to pay this bill.

[dracore]

I was charged fees for 2 months. I called in and was able to get those 2 fees waived BUT they said I do not qualify for getting an entire year waived.

How did you guys do that? I've had my RBC US Access account opened since 2009 and I still can't get it waived. All I have is my regular chequing account + the platinum card.
I asked them what the reason was and they said "we look at everything including all the services you have at RBC and you do not qualify for getting it waived for a year".

What the!?




Those who still don't have their $2.95/month RBC fee waived should call in. I just got my fees waived for a year. The $2.95 they already deducted is put back into my account. I think if more people complain about the fees they might re-consider. I just told them my friend (all you people in this thread) has the same account and got it waived.

They have a savings account that only allows 6 debit items/month but costs $5/month in fees with it waived at $300. Need to look into this some more to see what other limitations it has. I primarily use my RBC USA Visa anyways and the account is just to pay this bill.

[otown47]

I was charged fees for 2 months. I called in and was able to get those 2 fees waived BUT they said I do not qualify for getting an entire year waived.

How did you guys do that? I've had my RBC US Access account opened since 2009 and I still can't get it waived. All I have is my regular chequing account + the platinum card.
I asked them what the reason was and they said "we look at everything including all the services you have at RBC and you do not qualify for getting it waived for a year".

What the!?

I tried too...they said I didn't qualify......

[angel_wing0]

I was charged fees for 2 months. I called in and was able to get those 2 fees waived BUT they said I do not qualify for getting an entire year waived.

How did you guys do that? I've had my RBC US Access account opened since 2009 and I still can't get it waived. All I have is my regular chequing account + the platinum card.
I asked them what the reason was and they said "we look at everything including all the services you have at RBC and you do not qualify for getting it waived for a year".

What the!?

Guess it does not apply to everyone. They also look at the Canadian side too afaik

[mc_molineux]

Guess it does not apply to everyone. They also look at the Canadian side too afaik

Yeah, they look at the Canadian side. I think if you qualify for the multi-product rebate on your Canadian banking, you qualify for the fees waiver on the American accounts.

[angel_wing0]

Yeah, they look at the Canadian side. I think if you qualify for the multi-product rebate on your Canadian banking, you qualify for the fees waiver on the American accounts.
Well for one year only for now, hopefully they will bring the mbm back

[Jonavin]

Yeah, they look at the Canadian side. I think if you qualify for the multi-product rebate on your Canadian banking, you qualify for the fees waiver on the American accounts.

Possible, but I don't have any credit cards or investments with RBC so I normally wouldn't even qualify for multi product rebates. May be it also depends on your history with the . I've had my RBC account since my first paper route as a kid.

[angel_wing0]

Possible, but I don't have any credit cards or investments with RBC so I normally wouldn't even qualify for multi product rebates. May be it also depends on your history with the . I've had my RBC account since my first paper route as a kid.
History is way more important than if you qualify for the mpr imo.

[mc_molineux]

History is way more important than if you qualify for the mpr imo.

It's possible. When I called though to ask for the waiver, the CSR noted that I had the MPR. She didn't directly say that's why she could waive it, but it was interesting that she made a point of noting it.

It is possible that there are several things that could qualify you for the waiver, or maybe it is simply up to CSR discretion.

[angel_wing0]

It is possible that there are several things that could qualify you for the waiver, or maybe it is simply up to CSR discretion.

good pt, could be both as well :lol:

[sskl1998]

Don't you notice that most of the gas stations in the US only accept credit cards at the pump with a US Zipcode. It is very annoying and especially when you are in a rush to return the rental car that you have to go in to see the attendant and explain to him/her that you have a Canadian CC and they need to pre-authorize the pump. Is there any trick to key in the Zip code while your billing address has a Canadian postal code? How do I get a US credit card which is tied into a US address without actually live in that address, may be a company address or a friend's address?

[Roger3592]

How do I get a US credit card which is tied into a US address without actually live in that address, may be a company address or a friend's address

Id go with a RBC America credit card with a mail pick up place as your American address ( maybe bongo or Anderson package pickup ) RBC sends a statement each month and if you have an American address it will go there so make sure they won't charge you( no paperless billing)
BofA is what I use, you have to go to America to open the account but it's a better card and ex trade to move my money

[pathfinder35]

Is there any trick to key in the Zip code while your billing address has a Canadian postal code?

This link (http://www.everydaymoney.ca/2011/11/as-the-snow-starts-to-fly-thousands-of-florida-bound-snowbirds-are-gearing-up-for-the-long-drive-the-good-news-gas-prices.html)has some suggestions..

[heyjoe]

guys for the RBC US account

how long did it take to activate?

were there features you could use right away?

i need it for wed and applied just now, but they won't be received 'til tmr morning.

[chandra43]

For those of you that travel to Bellingham, WA to shop I'd recommend Peoples Bank. They let Canadians set up accounts, the account has no monthly fees, and you get a Debit/Visa card that you can use just like a Credit or Debit card, so it works for online purchases. My brother has one, who lives in Langley, and when I first started traveling down to the States after meeting my now husband, I had one too. They would even mail all my statements to my Canadian address, with no fees. There are a number of branches between the border and Bellingham. http://www.peoplesbank-wa.com/index.cfm?pageID=39&parentID=15 I have an www.xetrade.com account set up and actually transfer my from my Canadian bank account to my US Peoples bank account all the time. I found XE Trade had the best exchange rates...way better than the banks. Plus then you can just move money into your US account and buy online to your hearts desire using your US Credit Card. And if any of the US sites ever need a US shipping address, you can use ours! We have over 600 Canadians shipping to our address and do it all by donation to our kids college funds. If you're interested you can visit our website at http://www.ship2blaine.com

[stinger123]

Those who still don't have their $2.95/month RBC fee waived should call in. I just got my fees waived for a year. The $2.95 they already deducted is put back into my account. I think if more people complain about the fees they might re-consider. I just told them my friend (all you people in this thread) has the same account and got it waived.

They have a savings account that only allows 6 debit items/month but costs $5/month in fees with it waived at $300. Need to look into this some more to see what other limitations it has. I primarily use my RBC USA Visa anyways and the account is just to pay this bill.

I just tried to get the fee waived, But they say that they will not waive them. I have investment accounts and other accounts with RBC.
Is there any proof we can quote to get the fee waived ?

[dracore]

I gave up and just switched my RBC account to a savings account so I don't get charged. I only use their credit card anyways so it's not a big deal.

[angel_wing0]

I just tried to get the fee waived, But they say that they will not waive them. I have investment accounts and other accounts with RBC.
Is there any proof we can quote to get the fee waived ?

not really...

[halflife150]

I gave up and just switched my RBC account to a savings account so I don't get charged. I only use their credit card anyways so it's not a big deal.

Can you actually pay any bills from the RBCUSA savings account, website doesn't say anything about debits, and it still requires a min. balance to avoid any fees.

[canadude1122]

For those of you that travel to Bellingham, WA to shop I'd recommend Peoples Bank. They let Canadians set up accounts, the account has no monthly fees, and you get a Debit/Visa card that you can use just like a Credit or Debit card, so it works for online purchases. My brother has one, who lives in Langley, and when I first started traveling down to the States after meeting my now husband, I had one too. They would even mail all my statements to my Canadian address, with no fees. There are a number of branches between the border and Bellingham. http://www.peoplesbank-wa.com/index.cfm?pageID=39&parentID=15 I have an www.xetrade.com account set up and actually transfer my from my Canadian bank account to my US Peoples bank account all the time. I found XE Trade had the best exchange rates...way better than the banks. Plus then you can just move money into your US account and buy online to your hearts desire using your US Credit Card. And if any of the US sites ever need a US shipping address, you can use ours! We have over 600 Canadians shipping to our address and do it all by donation to our kids college funds. If you're interested you can visit our website at http://www.ship2blaine.com

Another good one is Banner Bank (if you are in Washington), they have a completely free checking account, plus Banner Bank has been around since 1890 so they're not going anywhere anytime soon. Probably one of the best features of the account is(well besides being FREE!) is they allow you to use ANY other banks ATM machines FREE of charge anywhere in the USA. Which is a huge plus for me.
Also they have the Free Visa debit card that most banks in the US offer.

Here is a link to the checking account details on their site...http://www.bannerbank.com/PersonalSolutions/PersonalCheckingAccounts/Pages/default.aspx

I signed up in Bellingham and all I needed was my drivers license. Plus you DO NOT need a US address like some people have said.

Hope this helps!

Oh and there is a location in Point Roberts, Washington that is open till 4pm on Saturday which is super handy.

[mladenniki]

I just completed the process of opening a US bank account as a Canadian resident, heres what I had to do:

1. Physically drive from Vancouver across the border to Chase Bank in Bellingham, WA
2. Bring a valid drivers license (which must have your current Canadian address) + a Canadian passport
3. $25 USD to start the account
4. Answer some simple questions about what you will use the account for, what do you estimate your monthly balance to be etc.

After this was complete, an online account was setup for me at Chase.com and a debit card was mailed to my Canadian address in under a week.

Hope this helps!

[1226]

Another good one is Banner Bank (if you are in Washington), they have a completely free checking account, plus Banner Bank has been around since 1890 so they're not going anywhere anytime soon. Probably one of the best features of the account is(well besides being FREE!) is they allow you to use ANY other banks ATM machines FREE of charge anywhere in the USA. Which is a huge plus for me.
Also they have the Free Visa debit card that most banks in the US offer.

Here is a link to the checking account details on their site...http://www.bannerbank.com/PersonalSolutions/PersonalCheckingAccounts/Pages/default.aspx

I signed up in Bellingham and all I needed was my drivers license. Plus you DO NOT need a US address like some people have said.

Hope this helps!

Oh and there is a location in Point Roberts, Washington that is open till 4pm on Saturday which is super handy.

+1 for Banner Bank

Point of clarification though, they rebate you the ATM fee for non-bank ATM's only. It's counterintuitive but you need to use one of those 3rd party machines (like in a casino) to avoid ATM charges.

[canadude1122]

+1 for Banner Bank

Point of clarification though, they rebate you the ATM fee for non-bank ATM's only. It's counterintuitive but you need to use one of those 3rd party machines (like in a casino) to avoid ATM charges.

My bad I forgot to mention that they in fact REFUND your charge. Thanks for clarifying.

[canadude1122]

I just completed the process of opening a US bank account as a Canadian resident, heres what I had to do:

1. Physically drive from Vancouver across the border to Chase Bank in Bellingham, WA
2. Bring a valid drivers license (which must have your current Canadian address) + a Canadian passport
3. $25 USD to start the account
4. Answer some simple questions about what you will use the account for, what do you estimate your monthly balance to be etc.

After this was complete, an online account was setup for me at Chase.com and a debit card was mailed to my Canadian address in under a week.

Hope this helps!

Did you HAVE to have a passport? If so it must just be a Chase thing...

[jtjonnes]

+1 for Banner Bank

Point of clarification though, they rebate you the ATM fee for non-bank ATM's only. It's counterintuitive but you need to use one of those 3rd party machines (like in a casino) to avoid ATM charges.

No isn't it any US non-banner ATM based on what is quoted below:

Applicable for US ATM transactions only. Any surcharges assessed by non-Banner ATMs will be rebated by Banner Bank to customer’s account.

http://www.bannerbank.com/PersonalSolutions/PersonalCheckingAccounts/ConnectedChecking/Pages/default.aspx

[1226]

No isn't it any US non-banner ATM based on what is quoted below:

Applicable for US ATM transactions only. Any surcharges assessed by non-Banner ATMs will be rebated by Banner Bank to customer’s account.

http://www.bannerbank.com/PersonalSolutions/PersonalCheckingAccounts/ConnectedChecking/Pages/default.aspx

Bizarre. Another page seems to contradict that (in the footnote):

"Any surcharges assessed by non-bank owned ATMs will be rebated by Banner Bank to customer’s account."

http://www.bannerbank.com/News/Pages/FreeConnectedChecking.aspx

I clarified this with a Banner Bank rep in Ferndale last year some time and she confirmed it was "non-bank owned" ATM's. But maybe they've changed it and just haven't updated the page I quoted? Hopefully that's the case.

EDIT: I notice further up the page I quoted it says: "You won't get slapped with any debit card fees or teller fees—in fact, there aren't even any ATM fees1 . When you use non-Banner Bank ATMs, we'll refund the surcharge, so you don't get dinged."

So hopefully they just haven't yet updated the footnote. That would be awesome.

[antoine3001]

Wow, a lot of info in this thread! Was nice to read it all but took some time :razz:

For those who might be interested, I just opened a BMO Harris Bank account... Went with them since I'm already a BMO customers and have had issue with RBC in the past...
So here's how it went.
1) Last friday, went on the Harris Bank website and filled the form to open an account.
2) Monday morning I received a call from one of their CSR advising me I had been approved, telling me she would mail me the signature card for me to return and asking me how I would pay for the 100$ opening deposit. I told her I would send a 100$ check from my BMO US$ account.
3) Thursday late evening I received a call from UPS, they left me a VM telling me they tried to deliver a package but my address was wrong (fail since the address was valid)
4) Wednesday morning I changed the delivery address to my workplace.
5) Thursday afternoon I received the package, signed the papers (signature card & w-8ben form) and returned right away using the enclosed prepaid UPS enveloppe...
6) Friday (today) morning, they received the package at the bank, I'm now waiting for my MC Debit card and checks to come.

To note, the fees are 7$ per months for their Checking account and are waived if you either have a minimum monthly balance of 1000$ or make a single deposit of 500$ per month.
As other stated, there does not seem to be any integration between BMO and BMO Harris, hopefully, someday they will but I'm going to use XE trade anyway and I also have the option to use Paypal to transfer funds to my Canadian RBC US$ account...

So for someone far from the border or who does not want to / can't go to an RBC branches, it's possible to open an account completely remotely.
As far as CC, I did not requested one yet, I'm still rebuilding my credit here so I'll wait a little bit and use the MC Debit card in the meantime...
At least I won't pay these exchange fees anymore...

Hope it helps for those wondering about Harris Bank, I'll keep you posted as to the process...

[guessaaa]

Well, looks like RBC closed my USA account today. Not sure why as I used it less than 30 days ago. All I see is an alert dated July 26 saying the account is closed. Weird. Maybe they didn't want to give me the monthly fee waiver anymore :razz:

[Jonavin]

Well, looks like RBC closed my USA account today. Not sure why as I used it less than 30 days ago. All I see is an alert dated July 26 saying the account is closed. Weird. Maybe they didn't want to give me the monthly fee waiver anymore :razz:

What happened to your balance, or did you not have a balance?

[guessaaa]

What happened to your balance, or did you not have a balance?

No balance the last 20 something days, but there was a balance a month ago.

[antoine3001]

Quick update on my experience with BMO Harris bank, I called in today to activate online banking since I was not able to do so on-line. The first CSR I spoke transferred me to someone else since I was Canadian, the second got me all setup in less than 10 min, she was very courteous.

I logged in, chose a new password and security question and I was ready to go. I added my Macy's card and can now pay it online.
Just waiting for my free "checks" and MasterCard Debit card to come in.

Pretty straightforward all in all...

[Innis]

Well, looks like RBC closed my USA account today. Not sure why as I used it less than 30 days ago. All I see is an alert dated July 26 saying the account is closed. Weird. Maybe they didn't want to give me the monthly fee waiver anymore :razz:

Same situation and same thing happened to me on July 27. I also had the fee waived until next year. This was their way of getting out of waiving the fee. They told me the account was closed in error but they could reopen it... BUT they could not continue the fee waiving agreement I initially had with them because "As of June, no more fee waiving will be possible". I do use the account on a monthly basis but I do not keep a balance in it. I think this was a very sneaky thing of RBC to do. The solution they gave me was to open a RBC Bank Savings account instead as it still links to the RBC Canada accounts ... I just cannot transfer out of it more than 6 times a month... which I do not. Apparently also if you take money out from it at an ATM at a PNC in the states... it does not count towards this limitation. This is an ok solution I think!

[angel_wing0]

Wow they better not close mine as it still has money in there. They better continue the waiver next year, else i'll close it without a thought.

[mladenniki]

Did you HAVE to have a passport? If so it must just be a Chase thing...

Yes, when I called in advance they had said the passport was a requirement. In any case - unless you have one of the new drivers license's, you would be bringing your passport to cross the border anyways.

[dracore]

Just got my TD US Visa card (opened a basic chequing account and got them to check my credit against Equifax/Transunion Canada) and it has a $20k limit. holy cow! It would probably take me forever if I were to get the same amount with my US credit score.

[angel_wing0]

Now this makes me wonder, i guess we can add our rbc bank usd account to our canadian paypal account. Interesting!

[Jonavin]

Now this makes me wonder, i guess we can add our rbc bank usd account to our canadian paypal account. Interesting!

Don't do it, you'll get charged foreign access fees. Yes, even if the charge is in USD.

[angel_wing0]

Don't do it, you'll get charged foreign access fees. Yes, even if the charge is in USD.

...is that base on personal experience?

I have added my rbc canada usd account to my canada paypal, and iirc the money i sent is all USD. Why would it be different through a pure rbc bank account?

[Jonavin]

...is that base on personal experience?

I have added my rbc canada usd account to my canada paypal, and iirc the money i sent is all USD. Why would it be different through a pure rbc bank account?

Made a purchase on my RBC US account in USD but the merchant was a Canadian company. I got charge foreign access fees.

[angel_wing0]

Made a purchase on my RBC US account in USD but the merchant was a Canadian company. I got charge foreign access fees.

oic, so better to just use a cdn bank usd cc for that.

[angel_wing0]

Has anyone without a SSN try to apply for the US paypal CC? Well more like...will we be able to?

[antoine3001]

Now this makes me wonder, i guess we can add our rbc bank usd account to our canadian paypal account. Interesting!

I did add my Harris Bank checking account to my CDN Paypal and was able to pay with it, I did not get charge any foreign transaction fee, just the plain US$ amount...
I think Jonavin is talking about the US$ US CC charging foreign access fee.

[angel_wing0]

I did add my Harris Bank checking account to my CDN Paypal and was able to pay with it, I did not get charge any foreign transaction fee, just the plain US$ amount...

I think Jonavin is talking about the US$ US CC charging foreign access fee.

yip he is.

[Jon Lai]

Hey guys, I'm going to be going to Buffalo and am planning on opening an account while I'm there. Would love to hear the pros and cons between BoA and Chase. Seems like with BoA, I'm limited to eBanking if I want to avoid fees, whereas with Chase, there's a student banking option. Do you guys know if a Canadian can open a student account for going to a Canadian university? I would prefer to have branch access, just for the sake of having it.

Otherwise, are there any other banks/plans that I am missing that you guys would recommend that provide a FREE chequing account? Thanks!

[halflife150]

I did add my Harris Bank checking account to my CDN Paypal and was able to pay with it, I did not get charge any foreign transaction fee, just the plain US$ amount...
I think Jonavin is talking about the US$ US CC charging foreign access fee.

Does transferring money from Paypal to Harris account register as a deposit for waiving BMO fees?

Hey guys, I'm going to be going to Buffalo and am planning on opening an account while I'm there. Would love to hear the pros and cons between BoA and Chase. Seems like with BoA, I'm limited to eBanking if I want to avoid fees, whereas with Chase, there's a student banking option. Do you guys know if a Canadian can open a student account for going to a Canadian university? I would prefer to have branch access, just for the sake of having it.

Otherwise, are there any other banks/plans that I am missing that you guys would recommend that provide a FREE chequing account? Thanks!

No way your will get US student banking for attending a Canadian University. There are a few banks that have been mentioned that I think are branch and free, not one of the major banks though. And I don't know if they are located in Buffalo, I think some people have mentioned opening free border banks out west. Let us know of your experience, the more information the better.

[Jon Lai]

No way your will get US student banking for attending a Canadian University. There are a few banks that have been mentioned that I think are branch and free, not one of the major banks though. And I don't know if they are located in Buffalo, I think some people have mentioned opening free border banks out west. Let us know of your experience, the more information the better.

Someone mentioned TD did it for them (re: student account at Canadian university) but just wanted to know if BoA or Chase would as well.

[halflife150]

Someone mentioned TD did it for them (re: student account at Canadian university) but just wanted to know if BoA or Chase would as well.

You sure it was for TDUS and not TDCanada? TD may be different because of it's Canadian connection, but doesn't really make sense to accept foreign Universities. You can try and post here what happened, I doubt you'll get it. Find a smaller border Bank, it seems a lot of those still offer free accounts, and they seem to accept Canadians based on people's posts. I don't know what kind of branch/ATM access they provide since they are small. I think BOA is the only major US bank that still offers free accounts that Canadians can open, and as you said, it is only virtual access.

[CorSter]

Does transferring money from Paypal to Harris account register as a deposit for waiving BMO fees?


No way your will get US student banking for attending a Canadian University. There are a few banks that have been mentioned that I think are branch and free, not one of the major banks though. And I don't know if they are located in Buffalo, I think some people have mentioned opening free border banks out west. Let us know of your experience, the more information the better.

TD Bank did open a Student Account for me, but like you said, there isn't one in Buffalo.

[halflife150]

TD Bank did open a Student Account for me, but like you said, there isn't one in Buffalo.

Nice to know because I would have figured they would have never allowed it. Maybe because TD is integrated they allow it. But not like there is much difference between the student accounts vs. regular, only thing I could find was the min. $100 balance isn't required for students. That's only like $2-5 saved interest per year. Like I said, could always try with other banks, I just figure they wouldn't allow it.

[CorSter]

Nice to know because I would have figured they would have never allowed it. Maybe because TD is integrated they allow it. But not like there is much difference between the student accounts vs. regular, only thing I could find was the min. $100 balance isn't required for students. That's only like $2-5 saved interest per year. Like I said, could always try with other banks, I just figure they wouldn't allow it.

Never hurts to ask. The banks don't really care, to be honest. I just asked if I could get the student account and the rep said "I don't see why not".

[Jon Lai]

Just created an account at BoA in Buffalo. I was advised the debit card takes about 10 business days to be mailed to you, pretty ridiculous in my opinion. All the places I've opened accounts in Canada gave you your ATM card on the spot...

[CorSter]

Just created an account at BoA in Buffalo. I was advised the debit card takes about 10 business days to be mailed to you, pretty ridiculous in my opinion. All the places I've opened accounts in Canada gave you your ATM card on the spot...

TD Bank (US) issues cards on the spot, but they look really terrible.

Frankly, i'm not sure how CIBC and TD (Canada) even get away with issuing VISA Debit cards w/o names on them.

[yupislyr]

Just created an account at BoA in Buffalo. I was advised the debit card takes about 10 business days to be mailed to you, pretty ridiculous in my opinion. All the places I've opened accounts in Canada gave you your ATM card on the spot...

Sounds like somebody screwed up. When I got a BoA account in Detroit, they gave me a temporary card that they said would expire a while after I received my regular card. I received my regular card within a week or so I think at my US mailing address.

[Jon Lai]

Sounds like somebody screwed up. When I got a BoA account in Detroit, they gave me a temporary card that they said would expire a while after I received my regular card. I received my regular card within a week or so I think at my US mailing address.

Nah, I was offered a temp card too, but my situation is a bit different. I'm moving to NYC in 2 weeks, but if I take the temp. card today, it will automatically send me the permanent card to my current address (in Canada), so I might not get it before my flight. The manager suggested that I don't take the temp card today, go to a BoA branch in NYC to request the card and do a change of address to my NYC address, and so the permanent card will be mailed to there.

Painful, but oh well.

[antoine3001]

Does transferring money from Paypal to Harris account register as a deposit for waiving BMO fees?

I'm pretty confident it will, my 500$ transfer using XE Trade did it for this month... I'll try transferring 500$ to Paypal and back to Harris and see if I get waived... Will only know in about a month though :)

[Fire]

I called RBC VISA today and ask for the two address things (one for paper statement and the other for online purchase billing address) they said I have to switch it every month before the statement day and "the statement address and billing address" are not exist. There are always one primary address which you need to decide either US or Canada. I talked 3 CS just try to make sure that's not because of the "newbie" CS.

They recently changed or what?

[angel_wing0]

I called RBC VISA today and ask for the two address things (one for paper statement and the other for online purchase billing address) they said I have to switch it every month before the statement day and "the statement address and billing address" are not exist. There are always one primary address which you need to decide either US or Canada. I talked 3 CS just try to make sure that's not because of the "newbie" CS.

They recently changed or what?

it has always been like that, u can only use one address for stmt/billing, but u can change which address to use whenever u want.

[Fire]

RBC USA Platinum Rewards credit card (the proper US credit card from RBC USA) allows you to have multiple addresses registered on the card, yet only have statements sent to one address. So you can register a dummy address in the USA and then have all your purchases shipped to your home in Canada. So you can easily bypass the anti-Canada restrictions on US websites, since it appears you have a genuine US credit card linked to a genuine US billing address. You can of course choose for your billing address to be different from your shipping address when you make the purchase so that it's billed to someplace in America (2964 Columbia Street, Torrance CA 90503 is my favourite) but shipped to Canada.


Actually you can have multiple addresses for multiple purposes within your account, according to the RBC CSR I spoke with.



This arrangement was also noted much earlier in the thread several months ago... a lot of us in the thread have done it this way. Unfortunately it did cause some troubles when the new cards were mailed out following the PNC sale and people's cards went to the USA.


With the CC you can only have one active address at a time...everything goes to that address. They will keep two addresses on file which you can switch via a phone call.

The mailing/billing address situation you refer to is for the bank statement.


There are two different answers... Are they refer to different service, one for bank account and the other for CC?
Looks like ppl are talking about the CC.....

[Jon Lai]

Does anyone know how to login to their Royal Bank US Credit card without a Royal Bank chequing account? I can only find logins for the chequing account and for the CC's rewards account, but the rewards login does not show transactions and past bills. Thanks!

[angel_wing0]

Does anyone know how to login to their Royal Bank US Credit card without a Royal Bank chequing account? I can only find logins for the chequing account and for the CC's rewards account, but the rewards login does not show transactions and past bills. Thanks!

...call rbc bank, would u? :facepalm:

[halflife150]

I'm pretty confident it will, my 500$ transfer using XE Trade did it for this month... I'll try transferring 500$ to Paypal and back to Harris and see if I get waived... Will only know in about a month though :)

Because if it counts, then just need to keep transferring $500 back and forth instead of having to keep a min. balance of $1000 to waive fees.

[thinkpad]

Noticed there are two credit card types available now... which one would you favour? Other than having a black card vs the silver one :)

Signature Black Credit Card (also Preferred version) versus the older Platinum Credit Card?

http://www.rbcbank.com/products-and-services/cid-311413.html

One thing I see with a quick diff of what they wrote was the lack of Auto rental insurance for the black cards...

[Jonavin]

Noticed there are two credit card types available now... which one would you favour? Other than having a black card vs the silver one :)

Signature Black Credit Card (also Preferred version) versus the older Platinum Credit Card?

http://www.rbcbank.com/products-and-services/cid-311413.html

One thing I see with a quick diff of what they wrote was the lack of Auto rental insurance for the black cards...

Visa Signature in the US is similar to Visa Infinite in Canada. I'm sure auto insurance is included because that's a standard Signature feature.

I noticed in the application, it also says that foreign transaction fee (even if it's in USD) is 1.5% on the Signature card vs 3% on Patinum.


Signature: 1.5% of the U.S. Dollar amount of the
foreign transaction regardless of whether the
transaction is made in U.S. Dollars or in a foreign
currency (Exception: Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin
Islands).

Platinum: 3% of the U.S. Dollar amount of the foreign
transaction regardless of whether the transaction
is made in U.S. Dollars or in a foreign currency
(Exception: Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands).

[Jonavin]

Wasn't able to verify the auto insurance but it takes minutes to switch over from Platinum. You just call them and tell them you want to switch and they verify your identity and that's it. No new application required and your reward points are transferred over.

[express.items]

Are there any other banks (not Bank of America) that offer a free account to non-residents? I can live with electronic only access.

[thinkpad]

Ahh, so there isn't a downside to this card... might as well transfer over :) thanks for the info Jonavin


Visa Signature in the US is similar to Visa Infinite in Canada. I'm sure auto insurance is included because that's a standard Signature feature.

I noticed in the application, it also says that foreign transaction fee (even if it's in USD) is 1.5% on the Signature card vs 3% on Patinum.

[Jonavin]

From the RBC link if you click Travel Privileges, you can see that it does include Auto Insurance.

http://usa.visa.com/personal/visa-signature/travel.jsp

If you read the details though, it sounds like it's not a primary insurance; meaning if you have your own personal LDW insurance, they just cover the deductible from your personal policy. The Platinum card is the same so you're not losing anything if you switched. I'd just stick to CapOne ASPIRE Travel World or TD Visa for auto rentals because it's primary (no need to claim with your personal insurance first).

So no downside to switch. I just called to switch and it was painless. They are sending me the card. Current Platinum card is still usable until I receive and activate the new Signature card. All my reward points will be transferred over.

[brunes]

Just as an FYI, I did a TD to TDCT transfer today and was advised that the daily no-fee wire limit has been raised from $5000 to $25,000. Don't think I will need it any time soon but it's good to know in case I am buying a car or something someday.

[theBeachBoy]

Are there any other banks (not Bank of America) that offer a free account to non-residents? I can live with electronic only access.

People's United Bank as well as a North Country Federal Credit Union accounts opened.

I think they are only in the NE though

[angel_wing0]

I am glad that i opened a RBC Bank Visa, I can still use Google Wallet when the prepaid card is gone on Oct 17th! :lol:

[Jonavin]

Just got the RBC Black Visa Signature package. Auto insurance is still included despite not being shown on the website. Other features:

Extended warranty - double length up to 1 year
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
Cell Phone Insurance (upto $200 if you pay your monthly bill with the card)
Travel accident $500,000
Lost luggage, covers checked and carryon baggage up to $3000
Purchase Security, 90 day protect from lost, theft, damage, max $500
24/7 Consiege service and other Visa Signature perks
Signature Visa Luxury Hotels: free upgrade, late check-out, free breakfast, free wifi, $25 food/beverage voucher

So there's no down side to upgrading your card from Platinum.

[shylok]

Just got the RBC Black Visa Signature package. Auto insurance is still included despite not being shown on the website. Other features:

Extended warranty - double length up to 1 year
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
Cell Phone Insurance (upto $200 if you pay your monthly bill with the card)
Travel accident $500,000
Lost luggage, covers checked and carryon baggage up to $3000
Purchase Security, 90 day protect from lost, theft, damage, max $500
24/7 Consiege service and other Visa Signature perks
Signature Visa Luxury Hotels: free upgrade, late check-out, free breakfast, free wifi, $25 food/beverage voucher

So there's no down side to upgrading your card from Platinum.

Never have seen a limit on the purchase security, is that normal?

[angel_wing0]

Just got the RBC Black Visa Signature package. Auto insurance is still included despite not being shown on the website.

So there's no down side to upgrading your card from Platinum.
no annual fee?

[jchanq]

no annual fee?

Yes no annual fee

[Jonavin]

No annual fee for the Signature Black Visa that pays 1 reward per dollar. The Signature Black PLUS Visa has a $75 annual fee but earns 1.5 points per dollar. That's the only difference as far as I can tell.

[angel_wing0]

Yes no annual fee


No annual fee for the Signature Black Visa that pays 1 reward per dollar. The Signature Black PLUS Visa has a $75 annual fee but earns 1.5 points per dollar. That's the only difference as far as I can tell.

nice, so i can just call in and convert? thanks.

[Jonavin]

Yup, just call in and convert. It takes longer to verify your ID than it took for them to convert. Make sure you confirm the non-PLUS version with no fees.

Also the foreign transaction fee (purchases outside US) is 1.5%, not 0% like Chase, but much better than most cards that have 2.5% or 3% (like the RBC Platinum).

[angel_wing0]

nice thanks will call in very soon!!

[Kaiyoti]

Hi, I've scanned through this thread and it seems that a lot of folks who get accounts by walking into the branch are near the borders. I'm wondering if it's possible to go into a branch that's not near the border? I frequently travel to San Francisco for my company and never thought to try it since I'd just assume you'll need US ssn. Have anyone had trouble with banks that's much further south than the border?

[angel_wing0]

Yup, just call in and convert. It takes longer to verify your ID than it took for them to convert. Make sure you confirm the non-PLUS version with no fees.

Also the foreign transaction fee (purchases outside US) is 1.5%, not 0% like Chase, but much better than most cards that have 2.5% or 3% (like the RBC Platinum).

switched, big thanks to you.

[tabcola]

I upgraded online by sending a secure message - they replied within 5 minutes!

[Haris]

How do we go about applyibng for this credit card, as i assume it is usa based.


Never have seen a limit on the purchase security, is that normal?

[angel_wing0]

No annual fee for the Signature Black Visa that pays 1 reward per dollar. The Signature Black PLUS Visa has a $75 annual fee but earns 1.5 points per dollar. That's the only difference as far as I can tell.

is your account converted yet online? mine is still the same #.

[trellaine201]

Any advantages having an account with a US Bank? I currently bank with TD and I have a TD VISA US funds.

Getting an account with e.g Bank of America, how is it different in the grand scheme of things?

Thanks

[angel_wing0]

Any advantages having an account with a US Bank? I currently bank with TD and I have a TD VISA US funds.

Getting an account with e.g Bank of America, how is it different in the grand scheme of things?

Thanks

it's useful if u go to the states alot and/or use/earn alot of USD

[Jonavin]

is your account converted yet online? mine is still the same #.

My number stayed the same. Got the new card already.

[angel_wing0]

My number stayed the same. Got the new card already.
I see how long did it take the card to arrive once you called in?

the rep said my number will change, guess he is wrong then lol

[thinkpad]

Converted to the Signature card, they sent me a card with a new number. Guess it depends on who processes the request.


I see how long did it take the card to arrive once you called in?

the rep said my number will change, guess he is wrong then lol

[angel_wing0]

Converted to the Signature card, they sent me a card with a new number. Guess it depends on who processes the request.

wow, talk about ymmv.

[Jonavin]

Actually I was told it would be different as well and when I called to activate they were surprised it was the same. Nonetheless, it did activate and I've been using it without problems. Even receive my first bill with the Signature Visa on the bill already.

[angel_wing0]

Actually I was told it would be different as well and when I called to activate they were surprised it was the same. Nonetheless, it did activate and I've been using it without problems. Even receive my first bill with the Signature Visa on the bill already.

still the same # here...for now. How long did it take you to get the card? hopefully around a week?

[Jonavin]

A week to a US address, so maybe another week if your address is in Canada?

[malcolm58]

Opening a bank account in the US requires a passport and a mailing address.
I used a friend's address and managed to open an account with Bank of America in Bellingham, WA.

Currently I am working on getting an American Express card. I'm doing it through their Special Handling department.
This is all done over the phone. Presumably, if you have an AMEX card in Canada, they can transfer your credit history over.
My application is still "in processing" stage according to their rep.

I'll create a new thread on this topic if everything goes successfully.

PS: Somehow Capital One already has my info (either culled from Bank of America and/or AMEX) and they have already sent me TWO credit card applications to my US address. Hilarious.

I'm curious to know, did you have any luck with this?
I'm working on trying to get the Gold Delta Skymiles Amex CC (for the first bag free benefit!! that's $100 for the 2 of us right there)
I applied for a Canadian Amex card as they instructed me (in order to pass the credit check requirement,) but now they need a US address.
I'm trying to get a US address for free, we'll see if a friend will help out. We leave in late November so i gotta hustle.
thx

[angel_wing0]

A week to a US address, so maybe another week if your address is in Canada?

icic, it seems my number won't change as i was told mine was shipped on the 15th, so look like my # will stay the same.

[Jonavin]

icic, it seems my number won't change as i was told mine was shipped on the 15th, so look like my # will stay the same.

Even though the number is the same once you receive the card, if you don't activate it, you may get some charges declined. I had this problem while trying to make a purchase at an outlet. The store had to call Visa to authorize after they verify my id. Gas station zipcode thing didn't work. Then my Google Wallet and Amazon stopped working.

After I activated, everything worked as normal. It's probably for your own protection. I imagine they don't want a pre-authorize card going through the mail, but I think they should better inform the customer. Probably not an issue if you did get a new card number.

[angel_wing0]

Even though the number is the same once you receive the card, if you don't activate it, you may get some charges declined. I had this problem while trying to make a purchase at an outlet. The store had to call Visa to authorize after they verify my id. Gas station zipcode thing didn't work. Then my Google Wallet and Amazon stopped working.

After I activated, everything worked as normal. It's probably for your own protection. I imagine they don't want a pre-authorize card going through the mail, but I think they should better inform the customer. Probably not an issue if you did get a new card number.

oh u bet i will activate it if i need to, thanks for the advice.

My google wallet stopped working too as i need to change the address back to my CDN one so that the card can be sent there...

[icycoldice]

Hey guys, I'm going to be going to Buffalo and am planning on opening an account while I'm there. Would love to hear the pros and cons between BoA and Chase. Seems like with BoA, I'm limited to eBanking if I want to avoid fees, whereas with Chase, there's a student banking option. Do you guys know if a Canadian can open a student account for going to a Canadian university? I would prefer to have branch access, just for the sake of having it.

Otherwise, are there any other banks/plans that I am missing that you guys would recommend that provide a FREE chequing account? Thanks!

I went to New York and opened a Student Account at Citibank, they even rushed by debit card and I received it the following day.

[thinkpad]

I did this before when moving to the US. Doing Global transfer
http://www.americanexpress.com/global-card-transfers/

you'll need to fulfill the criteria of having your Canadian AMEX for one year, SSN/Tax number, address, work details, etc...

After that's done, then it's straight forward. I now have my Canadian and US AMEX cards active in parallel.


I'm curious to know, did you have any luck with this?
I'm working on trying to get the Gold Delta Skymiles Amex CC (for the first bag free benefit!! that's $100 for the 2 of us right there)
I applied for a Canadian Amex card as they instructed me (in order to pass the credit check requirement,) but now they need a US address.
I'm trying to get a US address for free, we'll see if a friend will help out. We leave in late November so i gotta hustle.
thx

[angel_wing0]

wow, got my signature visa card already, that was quick. And it looks 1000X nicer than the plat rewards.

[TWDM]

As a fyi. I recently got a BoA visa by using a package forwarding address. I think it is easier to apply by paper, as they did not verify that my address wasnt a mail forwarding location.

They used my canadian credit file to give me a card. American Smartcash ftw.

[brunes]

Thought I would report on a couple of recent pieces of news here

Went to pick up packages at my mailbox yesterday, and found a letter from Discover claiming I was 'pre-approved' for a credit card. I thought "yeah right"
, but decided to try it anyway when i got home. When I entered in the offer #, everything was pre-filled. When I tried to submit with no SSN though, it didn't let the form go through - so for fun I decided to put my SIN in instead - AND IT WENT THROUGH. I now have on the way a Discover card that gives 5% cash back on the first 1500 spent every 4 months! Sweet. I don't know if anyone else will recieve this but if you do it is worth trying it out. Heck maybe you can just apply on the Discover site with your US address and Canadian SIN for all I know. The really cool part of this is I am pretty sure this is going to let me build a US credit profile with my SIN number!

Second - Walmart has a new product out with American Express called "BlueBird" that is pretty hot for anyone who doesn't want to go to the hassle of opening a US bank account. You can buy these re-loadable Amex cards at any Walmart, and they have next to no fees if buying online:

- Activation fee - $5
- Monthy fee - $0
- Reload fee - $0 at Walmart or via ACH
- Online purchases - $0
- In-person purchases - $5
- ATM fee - $0 at Moneypass ATM, $2 elsewhere

Here is the link - http://about.americanexpress.com/news/pr/2012/american-express-and-walmart-launch-bluebird.aspx

[shylok]

Bluebird seems very impressive, two questions.

How do we fund it, it can take cell phone cheque deposits, but will it take a Canadian cheque.

Does the card let you put US address information so it will pass AVS. Address Verification Service. Lots of prepaid cards don't. So you can't really shop online.



Thought I would report on a couple of recent pieces of news here

Went to pick up packages at my mailbox yesterday, and found a letter from Discover claiming I was 'pre-approved' for a credit card. I thought "yeah right"
, but decided to try it anyway when i got home. When I entered in the offer #, everything was pre-filled. When I tried to submit with no SSN though, it didn't let the form go through - so for fun I decided to put my SIN in instead - AND IT WENT THROUGH. I now have on the way a Discover card that gives 5% cash back on the first 1500 spent every 4 months! Sweet. I don't know if anyone else will recieve this but if you do it is worth trying it out. Heck maybe you can just apply on the Discover site with your US address and Canadian SIN for all I know. The really cool part of this is I am pretty sure this is going to let me build a US credit profile with my SIN number!

Second - Walmart has a new product out with American Express called "BlueBird" that is pretty hot for anyone who doesn't want to go to the hassle of opening a US bank account. You can buy these re-loadable Amex cards at any Walmart, and they have next to no fees if buying online:

- Activation fee - $5
- Monthy fee - $0
- Reload fee - $0 at Walmart or via ACH
- Online purchases - $0
- In-person purchases - $5
- ATM fee - $0 at Moneypass ATM, $2 elsewhere

Here is the link - http://about.americanexpress.com/news/pr/2012/american-express-and-walmart-launch-bluebird.aspx

[Jon Lai]

Thought I would report on a couple of recent pieces of news here

Went to pick up packages at my mailbox yesterday, and found a letter from Discover claiming I was 'pre-approved' for a credit card. I thought "yeah right"
, but decided to try it anyway when i got home. When I entered in the offer #, everything was pre-filled. When I tried to submit with no SSN though, it didn't let the form go through - so for fun I decided to put my SIN in instead - AND IT WENT THROUGH. I now have on the way a Discover card that gives 5% cash back on the first 1500 spent every 4 months! Sweet. I don't know if anyone else will recieve this but if you do it is worth trying it out. Heck maybe you can just apply on the Discover site with your US address and Canadian SIN for all I know. The really cool part of this is I am pretty sure this is going to let me build a US credit profile with my SIN number!
Would be real nice if it's true! But I know RBC's system only reports to either Canadian or US side, and not both (I called and asked when I switched from my SIN to SSN). I'm not sure if this is their policy, or a regulatoral thing agreed on federally on both sides of the border, so it'd be great if someone can confirm.

[angel_wing0]

Bluebird seems very impressive, two questions.

How do we fund it, it can take cell phone cheque deposits, but will it take a Canadian cheque.

Does the card let you put US address information so it will pass AVS. Address Verification Service. Lots of prepaid cards don't. So you can't really shop online.


Thought I would report on a couple of recent pieces of news here

Went to pick up packages at my mailbox yesterday, and found a letter from Discover claiming I was 'pre-approved' for a credit card. I thought "yeah right"
, but decided to try it anyway when i got home. When I entered in the offer #, everything was pre-filled. When I tried to submit with no SSN though, it didn't let the form go through - so for fun I decided to put my SIN in instead - AND IT WENT THROUGH. I now have on the way a Discover card that gives 5% cash back on the first 1500 spent every 4 months! Sweet. I don't know if anyone else will recieve this but if you do it is worth trying it out. Heck maybe you can just apply on the Discover site with your US address and Canadian SIN for all I know. The really cool part of this is I am pretty sure this is going to let me build a US credit profile with my SIN number!

..*hope* i get that. //dreams on

[brunes]

Bluebird seems very impressive, two questions.

How do we fund it, it can take cell phone cheque deposits, but will it take a Canadian cheque.

You can fund it at any Walmart in the US. Next time you are over there just put money on it.


Does the card let you put US address information so it will pass AVS. Address Verification Service. Lots of prepaid cards don't. So you can't really shop online.
I am pretty sure you can.

Reading more about this card, people in the US are using it as a way to get credit card points for paying their mortgage - crazy town - http://millionmilesecrets.com/2012/10/22/american-express-bluebird/


Would be real nice if it's true! But I know RBC's system only reports to either Canadian or US side, and not both (I called and asked when I switched from my SIN to SSN). I'm not sure if this is their policy, or a regulatoral thing agreed on federally on both sides of the border, so it'd be great if someone can confirm.

I think you misunderstood my post. I have ZERO credit history with my SIN right now, that I am aware. BUT, I was able to open this card - which I assume is going to start reporting a US history TO my SIN.

[express.items]

How'd you guys get a RBC (US) Signature VISA? Don't you need a US TIN or SSN?

[Jon Lai]

I think you misunderstood my post. I have ZERO credit history with my SIN right now, that I am aware. BUT, I was able to open this card - which I assume is going to start reporting a US history TO my SIN.

What? You've never had a credit card before?

Edit: You mean SSN, right?

[angel_wing0]

What? You've never had a credit card before?

Edit: You mean SSN, right?

credit history != credit card.

[brunes]

What? You've never had a credit card before?

Edit: You mean SSN, right?

No I have never had a US credit card with a US bank against my CANADIAN SIN, have you? Because it's not supposed to be possible, unless they are checking your Canadian credit history.

[Jon Lai]

No I have never had a US credit card with a US bank against my CANADIAN SIN, have you? Because it's not supposed to be possible, unless they are checking your Canadian credit history.

But that's precisely what they're doing. For example, the RBC Bank (US) Credit cards check against your SIN to approve of your application, then you can submit your SSN to report to the American side of your credit report. You can apply for BoA and TD Bank credit cards in much the same way, as others have done in the past.

Reporting US history to your SIN is not very useful as you likely already have a Canadian credit history. You will need an SSN to build history on the American side.

[mc_molineux]

Isn't putting your Canadian SIN as an SSN kind of sketchy? Couldn't that mix up your number's credit history with someone with the same number (but SSN) on the American side? I think this was discussed earlier in this thread.

[adr1an]

Here is a not-so-positive review of bluebird (http://blog.maclawran.ca/the-amex-bluebird-serve-card).

[TWDM]

Thought I would report on a couple of recent pieces of news here

Went to pick up packages at my mailbox yesterday, and found a letter from Discover claiming I was 'pre-approved' for a credit card. I thought "yeah right"
, but decided to try it anyway when i got home. When I entered in the offer #, everything was pre-filled. When I tried to submit with no SSN though, it didn't let the form go through - so for fun I decided to put my SIN in instead - AND IT WENT THROUGH. I now have on the way a Discover card that gives 5% cash back on the first 1500 spent every 4 months! Sweet. I don't know if anyone else will recieve this but if you do it is worth trying it out. Heck maybe you can just apply on the Discover site with your US address and Canadian SIN for all I know. The really cool part of this is I am pretty sure this is going to let me build a US credit profile with my SIN number!

Second - Walmart has a new product out with American Express called "BlueBird" that is pretty hot for anyone who doesn't want to go to the hassle of opening a US bank account. You can buy these re-loadable Amex cards at any Walmart, and they have next to no fees if buying online:

- Activation fee - $5
- Monthy fee - $0
- Reload fee - $0 at Walmart or via ACH
- Online purchases - $0
- In-person purchases - $5
- ATM fee - $0 at Moneypass ATM, $2 elsewhere

Here is the link - http://about.americanexpress.com/news/pr/2012/american-express-and-walmart-launch-bluebird.aspx

When you applied, you do realize you agreed that you were over the age of 18 and a US resident when you clicked submit for your application... You've just committed fraud.

[brunes]

But that's precisely what they're doing. For example, the RBC Bank (US) Credit cards check against your SIN to approve of your application, then you can submit your SSN to report to the American side of your credit report. You can apply for BoA and TD Bank credit cards in much the same way, as others have done in the past.

You are comparing apples to oranges. In one case you have a Canadian company doing a Canadian credit check against your Canadian credit history and issuing you a US credit card. In the other case, you have a US company doing a US credit check against your US credit history and issuing a US card. It is totally different.


Isn't putting your Canadian SIN as an SSN kind of sketchy? Couldn't that mix up your number's credit history with someone with the same number (but SSN) on the American side? I think this was discussed earlier in this thread.

Maybe? Who knows... after I have the card for a bit I will pull my report in the USA and see what it turns up


When you applied, you do realize you agreed that you were over the age of 18 and a US resident when you clicked submit for your application... You've just committed fraud.

Meh.. I also comitted fraud when I opened a Hulu Plus account or Amazon Prime account from Canada with that logic. It's a lowercase f fraud :P

[brunes]

Here is a not-so-positive review of bluebird (http://blog.maclawran.ca/the-amex-bluebird-serve-card).

This is a pretty stupid review. 3/4 of the article is about the box and the card packaging - who gives a crap? Then he starts going on about his patents (wtf?) Not once does he talk about using the card or it's lack of fees.

[andreslin]

Anyone successfully used the Bluebird card yet? I tried to register online and input my SIN# for SSN #. They sent me an e-mail saying they can't verify my details... Guess I'll have to buy one from Walmar physically and try.

[fbormann]

Just a small update for the RBC application process.

Went to an RBC branch to open US High Interest eSavings and RBC Access USA Royal Embassy checking accounts. The account manager told me I had to also open a CDN Day-to-Day savings account in order to get access to RBC Royal Canada online banking. In addition to that I had to immediately deposit $100 US into the US checking account. Left the branch with a temporary RBC Royal access card.

Be aware however, RBC Access USA offers to have the delivery of the US debit card expedited. It is pretty fast, the US debit card arrived less than a week later by FedEx. However, RBA USA charges $35 US for that service.

After the US debit card had arrived, I contacted my account manager in Canada to learn my US checking account number. A day later, a 2nd FedEx letter arrived with the pin number of the debit card. I then called to activate the card. After bypassing SSN number entry, the automated system asked for 2 out of 4 digits from the PIN number I received and for the last 4 digits of my telephone number. I was then able to activate and set a new pin number of my US debit card through their automated system without ever talking to a customer service representative.

Nevertheless, at the end of the activation process, I had my call transferred to customer service in order to setup online bankking for RBC USA and apply for the credit card. At this point, I was asked for my US checking account number.

For the online banking activation process, they gave a temporary username and password over the phone which allowed me an initial login into their system to choose my permanent username and password, all while still being on the phone with the customer service representative. All online banking features are immediately available, no more waiting for another letter in order to fully activate online banking.

I then asked about the credit card, was transferred again to a another call centre agent, who went through the credit card application process with me. The agent checked my Canadian credit history while I was on the phone and after just a couple of minutes told me that I was approved for the card and what credit limit I would be getting (and it is generous as compared to the limits I currently get in Canada). Credit card is supposed to arrive at my address in Canada within 10 business days. Just, a day later, the card showed up in my online banking.

Also successfully linked RBC Royal to RBC Bank in my online banking after the call was complete. Now waiting for the credit card to arrive...

By the way, I am a permanent resident in Canada, not a Canadian citizen. So, the process appears to work just as well for permanent residents with a limited credit history (mine was just over 2 years on a single low limit credit card) as it does for Canadian citizens.

[craftsman]

Speaking of RBC, I was looking at their US website and I think they have new savings account which might fit the bill for those of us who aren't heavy users but like the ability to transfer funds and write the occasional check...

Preferred Money Market Account (not to be confused with the Money Market Account)
http://www.rbcbank.com/products-and-services/cid-297696.html

Earn our best interest rates on the money you're saving, while maintaining easy access when needed.

Features Include:

$1,000 minimum opening deposit
$1,000 minimum monthly balance ($5.00 monthly service fee if not met)
Higher interest rates for balances greater than $10,000
Check writing ability to access cash or make purchases - up to 6 checks per month
Easy access to funds via Online Banking, telephone and ATM

What I don't know is if the 6 checks per month are free...

[Jon Lai]

You are comparing apples to oranges. In one case you have a Canadian company doing a Canadian credit check against your Canadian credit history and issuing you a US credit card. In the other case, you have a US company doing a US credit check against your US credit history and issuing a US card. It is totally different.

RBC Bank is a US Bank and is not the same as RBC Royal Bank. They are treated as separate entities.

[tk11]

Hey guys quick question. Looking for a USD Bank account in Canada.
I have money that is going to be bank wired to me in USD and would like a way to not lose anything through currency exchanges. What would be the best account for me?

Also does PC Financial have anything? I currently have an account with them.

[Password]

Hey guys quick question. Looking for a USD Bank account in Canada.
I have money that is going to be bank wired to me in USD and would like a way to not lose anything through currency exchanges. What would be the best account for me?

Also does PC Financial have anything? I currently have an account with them.My main household account is with PC Financial. I have a sole-proprietorship, and get cheques from my US client sent to me in USD made out to my name. I opened a second chequing account with PCF, and use that as my "business account." I enjoy the ability to deposit USD cheques at any CIBC ATM, and the fact that since my account is established with PCF, they don't hold my funds upon deposit.

The downside -- and it is a major one -- is that the exchange rate sucks. I have taken a hit of about $500 so far this year in money lost to the exchange differential between PCF and xe.com. That's not insignificant, and I've explored other options, but none give me the flexibility and access to my cash that I need and get from PCF.

[angel_wing0]

Hey guys quick question. Looking for a USD Bank account in Canada.
I have money that is going to be bank wired to me in USD and would like a way to not lose anything through currency exchanges. What would be the best account for me?

Also does PC Financial have anything? I currently have an account with them.

i would suggest u try the ING USD savings account.

no they dont have a usd account.

[theBeachBoy]

I was thinking of switching to RBC from CIBC once they stop giving me back my monthly fees, but just checked RBC and saw that monthly fees are $15 per month on the canadian side.. and then you need to add the US side fees to that!

That's a lot of monthly fees IMO!

I will keep my CIBC -> xetrade -> free US accounts setup for now. Unless you guys have a lower monthly fee total than that?

[tk11]

i would suggest u try the ING USD savings account.

no they dont have a usd account.

hmm really? Are they good with converting from USD to CAD?
My goal is to convert all the money to CAD and put it in regular everyday bank accounts

[brunes]

RBC Bank is a US Bank and is not the same as RBC Royal Bank. They are treated as separate entities.

They are still a subsidiary of RBC Canada and are doing a CANADIAN credit check against your CANADIAN credit record. Opening a credit card at RBC USA using your Canadian details has nothing to do with your US credit history, nor will it contribute to one. It's not the same scenario at all. I don't get why people are failing to see this, it's quite straight forward.

[angel_wing0]

They are still a subsidiary of RBC Canada and are doing a CANADIAN credit check against your CANADIAN credit record. Opening a credit card at RBC USA using your Canadian details has nothing to do with your US credit history, nor will it contribute to one. It's not the same scenario at all. I don't get why people are failing to see this, it's quite straight forward.

that is correct.

[thinkpad]

I believe for those who are expat CDN's, if we initially start up an RBC USA Visa, reference our Canadian credit for the check and approval that will get the card in your hands. Since receiving and using this card I had contacted RBC USA to link my US SSN to the card, and then that way RBC USA will report your usage to the US bureaus.

So those who have a valid SSN and work permit for the US, this is a good way to build credit and have it instantly granted with your history in Canada. Each has their own circumstances, of course those who are strictly Canadian citizens without business in the US, you won't build a credit history in the US, which is probably what you refer to. :)


They are still a subsidiary of RBC Canada and are doing a CANADIAN credit check against your CANADIAN credit record. Opening a credit card at RBC USA using your Canadian details has nothing to do with your US credit history, nor will it contribute to one. It's not the same scenario at all. I don't get why people are failing to see this, it's quite straight forward.

[craftsman]

Speaking of RBC, I was looking at their US website and I think they have new savings account which might fit the bill for those of us who aren't heavy users but like the ability to transfer funds and write the occasional check...

Preferred Money Market Account (not to be confused with the Money Market Account)
http://www.rbcbank.com/products-and-services/cid-297696.html

Earn our best interest rates on the money you're saving, while maintaining easy access when needed.

Features Include:

$1,000 minimum opening deposit
$1,000 minimum monthly balance ($5.00 monthly service fee if not met)
Higher interest rates for balances greater than $10,000
Check writing ability to access cash or make purchases - up to 6 checks per month
Easy access to funds via Online Banking, telephone and ATM

What I don't know is if the 6 checks per month are free...

As a follow-up, I talked to my branch and it turns out that you can't get this account with a Preferred Checking Account with RBC USA.

However, you can get the Money Market Investment Account with the same features including the 6 free checks a month but without the higher interest rate for balances greater than $10,000. I realize that not what the website says but I verified it with RBC USA and opened this account.

So, what I did was:

In Canada-
1. Open a CDN Day to Day Savings account so that I can get access to Online Banking.
2. Open an eSavings CDN and US dollar accounts) you really don't need these but I wanted some where to park the US funds in Canada.
3. Link all of these to my Canadian Client Card.

In the US (by phone from my Account Manager's office) (took about 30 minutes once we were connected to the Account Opening Team in the US)
4. Open a US Money Market Investment Account in the US.
5. Link it to Online Banking in the US.
6. Link the US Online Banking with the Canadian Online Banking. (They walk you through how to do this as long as you provide them with your Canadian Client Card Number)
7. Transfer $1000 US into the account to prevent the monthly fees.
8. Wait for my US ATM card and checks to arrive in Canada. (should be 2 to 3 weeks)


What I got was a "feeless" set of accounts which allow me to easily transfer funds between the US and Canada with 6 free US checks per month with online access for all accounts.

My next steps is to apply for the US VISA.

[angel_wing0]

^ good to hear, might convert my chequing to that once my year no-fee is up. Hopefully they will extend it for another year...

[CorSter]

They are still a subsidiary of RBC Canada and are doing a CANADIAN credit check against your CANADIAN credit record. Opening a credit card at RBC USA using your Canadian details has nothing to do with your US credit history, nor will it contribute to one. It's not the same scenario at all. I don't get why people are failing to see this, it's quite straight forward.

If you have a SSN or ITIN and provide it to RBC after opening the card, they will report it to a US credit bureau. If you don't have an SSN or ITIN, then you're correct.

[craftsman]

As a follow-up, I talked to my branch and it turns out that you can't get this account with a Preferred Checking Account with RBC USA.

However, you can get the Money Market Investment Account with the same features including the 6 free checks a month but without the higher interest rate for balances greater than $10,000. I realize that not what the website says but I verified it with RBC USA and opened this account.

So, what I did was:

In Canada-
1. Open a CDN Day to Day Savings account so that I can get access to Online Banking.
2. Open an eSavings CDN and US dollar accounts) you really don't need these but I wanted some where to park the US funds in Canada.
3. Link all of these to my Canadian Client Card.

In the US (by phone from my Account Manager's office) (took about 30 minutes once we were connected to the Account Opening Team in the US)
4. Open a US Money Market Investment Account in the US.
5. Link it to Online Banking in the US.
6. Link the US Online Banking with the Canadian Online Banking. (They walk you through how to do this as long as you provide them with your Canadian Client Card Number)
7. Transfer $1000 US into the account to prevent the monthly fees.
8. Wait for my US ATM card and checks to arrive in Canada. (should be 2 to 3 weeks)


What I got was a "feeless" set of accounts which allow me to easily transfer funds between the US and Canada with 6 free US checks per month with online access for all accounts.

My next steps is to apply for the US VISA.

Another follow-up...

Applied for a RBC Bank VISA Signature Black Credit Card with no annual fee and got accepted. Please note that they do use your Canadian credit history for the application.

On a side note - I found out that the user fees on the RBC eSavings Account are brutal (upwards of $5 per transaction) is be sure you know what's you are doing before doing the transaction! I'm used to BMO's package were I get an huge amount of transactions for free with my minimum balance.

[angel_wing0]

If you have a SSN or ITIN and provide it to RBC after opening the card, they will report it to a US credit bureau. If you don't have an SSN or ITIN, then you're correct.

well most of us here wont have a SSN/ITIN so...

[Thrasher]

If I were to get the US based RBC Visa credit card, is there a free way to pay off my bills without having a chequing account in the States? I am thinking of closing my Royal Embassy Checking account as they will not waive the fees for me.

[angel_wing0]

If I were to get the US based RBC Visa credit card, is there a free way to pay off my bills without having a chequing account in the States? I am thinking of closing my Royal Embassy Checking account as they will not waive the fees for me.

open a savings instead at rbc will do the trick.

[Thrasher]

open a savings instead at rbc will do the trick.

Can you pay bills from a savings account? And is it possible to have just the savings account without the chequing?
And for that savings account to not incur any fees I have to keep a $300 balance and can do up to 6 debit transactions per month, right?

[angel_wing0]

Can you pay bills from a savings account? And is it possible to have just the savings account without the chequing?
And for that savings account to not incur any fees I have to keep a $300 balance and can do up to 6 debit transactions per month, right?

http://www.rbcbank.com/products-and-services/cid-297696.html

Looks like u have to go for the Preferred Money Market Account in order to be able to pay bills.

[Thrasher]

http://www.rbcbank.com/products-and-services/cid-297696.html

Looks like u have to go for the Preferred Money Market Account in order to be able to pay bills.

That sux. I don't want to keep $1K in that account at 0.05% interest rate..

[angel_wing0]

That sux. I don't want to keep $1K in that account at 0.05% interest rate..

but at least no cost to keep it.

[craftsman]

That sux. I don't want to keep $1K in that account at 0.05% interest rate..

If you think about the fact that you don't have to pay the $5 per month, that's $60 per year which is 6% of $1,000...

[craftsman]

Another follow-up...

Applied for a RBC Bank VISA Signature Black Credit Card with no annual fee and got accepted. Please note that they do use your Canadian credit history for the application.

On a side note - I found out that the user fees on the RBC eSavings Account are brutal (upwards of $5 per transaction) is be sure you know what's you are doing before doing the transaction! I'm used to BMO's package were I get an huge amount of transactions for free with my minimum balance.

Another follow-up....

Just received my RBC Bank VISA Signature Black Credit Card in the mail today. I received a letter yesterday stating that they had to do a credit check for me to get the card...

That was only 10 days from when I applied and I applied on a Saturday over the phone... No wonder so many Americans get themselves into credit card troubles with cards being so easy to get!

[angel_wing0]

If you think about the fact that you don't have to pay the $5 per month, that's $60 per year which is 6% of $1,000...

+1, still sucks compare to no monthly fee chequing, but at least it's something.

[craftsman]

+1, still sucks compare to no monthly fee chequing, but at least it's something.

I know but I'm doing the same thing with my BMO accounts here... Min balance and saving on the $25 per month bank fee package... That's $300 a year in bank fees!

[angel_wing0]

I know but I'm doing the same thing with my BMO accounts here... Min balance and saving on the $25 per month bank fee package... That's $300 a year in bank fees!

They should have a $5000 mbm for that account.

[panda470]

... No wonder so many Americans get themselves into credit card troubles with cards being so easy to get!

Just wondering how is the lending criteria (relative to Canadian criteria) for US based credit card. I mean the criteria for credit score, income requirements or the already existing credit limits.

[craftsman]

Just wondering how is the lending criteria (relative to Canadian criteria) for US based credit card. I mean the criteria for credit score, income requirements or the already existing credit limits.

Not sure on that one. They asked about an SSN so that they can check the credit agencies... and since this is the US, the world revolves around that the credit score.

[angel_wing0]

Just wondering how is the lending criteria (relative to Canadian criteria) for US based credit card. I mean the criteria for credit score, income requirements or the already existing credit limits.

u'll probably better off making a separate thread on that.

[putinwork2012]

How easy is it to get a U.S Amex Credit Card without doing a Global Transfer? Reason I ask is because I've heard the Global Transfers are much harder to do now than before (need proof of residency, work, etc etc). What I do have is a Canadian Amex Card (which I've read they can use our Canadian credit history for the U.S Amex card application? Do I just setup a U.S Bank account with let's say RBC and then after, apply for the U.S Amex?

I'm not a U.S Citizen or have any U.S documentations like SSN or permanent residency.

What I do have is a U.S address I can get things mailed to (a friend's place). It seems like it may be harder to get a U.S Amex card since it is not through a financial institution like RBC USA, Harris BMO, Chase or BoA etc etc.

Thanks!

[angel_wing0]

your first solution: call amex.

[retired2012]

I just checked with RBC, the fee for the US account in the states is $2.95 a month. Is this a change since you first did this post?

[angel_wing0]

I just checked with RBC, the fee for the US account in the states is $2.95 a month. Is this a change since you first did this post?

yes they forced the fee upon us when they sold most of their operations to PNC. Some are lucky enough to got it waive for one year...

[Jonavin]

Even those of us who got it waived will have to start paying soon in a couple of months.

[angel_wing0]

Even those of us who got it waived will have to start paying soon in a couple of months.

mine will be feb. If they are not going to waive it, will move everything to TD US.

[Jonavin]

Does opening a TD US account allow you to do online banking? Since Chase Visas has no foreign transaction fees now, my only use for a US based account is to pay off my US based Visa that I use where an online retailer absolutely won't take a non-US based credit card.

[angel_wing0]

Does opening a TD US account allow you to do online banking?

Yes.

[craftsman]

I just checked with RBC, the fee for the US account in the states is $2.95 a month. Is this a change since you first did this post?

Why are we still talking about a fee?

Just switch over to the RBC Money Market Investment Account - No fees, 6 checks a month, they pay for the first batch of checks... However, you do need to keep a min. balance of $1000.

[angel_wing0]

Why are we still talking about a fee?

Just switch over to the RBC Money Market Investment Account - No fees, 6 checks a month, they pay for the first batch of checks... However, you do need to keep a min. balance of $1000.

true, guess i will do that, so the border transfer is still the same even after switching to this account right?

[craftsman]

true, guess i will do that, so the border transfer is still the same even after switching to this account right?

Had no issues when I transferred over the $1000 US for the minimum balance.

[angel_wing0]

Had no issues when I transferred over the $1000 US for the minimum balance.

*thumbs up* thanks for great news indeed.

[crowdpuller]

How easy is it to get a U.S Amex Credit Card without doing a Global Transfer? Reason I ask is because I've heard the Global Transfers are much harder to do now than before (need proof of residency, work, etc etc). What I do have is a Canadian Amex Card (which I've read they can use our Canadian credit history for the U.S Amex card application? Do I just setup a U.S Bank account with let's say RBC and then after, apply for the U.S Amex?

I'm not a U.S Citizen or have any U.S documentations like SSN or permanent residency.

What I do have is a U.S address I can get things mailed to (a friend's place). It seems like it may be harder to get a U.S Amex card since it is not through a financial institution like RBC USA, Harris BMO, Chase or BoA etc etc.

Thanks!

Not that hard. As long as you have a permanent addresss, amex card you are good. They do need to verify your address. If you have an account with boa or chase they can do live automated verification on the phone in 2 secs.

Call shouldn't take more than 10-15 mins and it won't affect your canadian amex credit card.

[angel_wing0]

Not that hard. As long as you have a permanent addresss, amex card you are good. They do need to verify your address. If you have an account with boa or chase they can do live automated verification on the phone in 2 secs.

Call shouldn't take more than 10-15 mins and it won't affect your canadian amex credit card.

how do they verify it? by calling the number on the address? or...?

[crowdpuller]

They will ask you for your bank card number.
And address information.

They have an automated line. The rep will dial you in and automated system will ask for bank card number, I think numerical portion of your address and zip. It will say match or no match.

That's it. No live person from your bank is involved.

[angel_wing0]

They will ask you for your bank card number.
And address information.

They have an automated line. The rep will dial you in and automated system will ask for bank card number, I think numerical portion of your address and zip. It will say match or no match.

That's it. No live person from your bank is involved.

icic, thanks.

[Jonavin]

Has anyone switched from RBC US to TD Bank US? Looks like they have an account that allows bill payments with monthly fees waived with minimum $100 balance.

[dracore]

Has anyone switched from RBC US to TD Bank US? Looks like they have an account that allows bill payments with monthly fees waived with minimum $100 balance.

I have both TD Bank US and RBC US account. But I'm thinking about fully switching to TD since RBC has about $2K of my money in there so that I don't accumulate fees.

[mc_molineux]

Why are we still talking about a fee?

Just switch over to the RBC Money Market Investment Account - No fees, 6 checks a month, they pay for the first batch of checks... However, you do need to keep a min. balance of $1000.

Thanks for the info. Is there a link to this account? I can't find it on the RBC USA website. Also, does this account generate interest, being a money market account? If it does, does this cause problems for Canadians without an SSN?

Edit: Found the link here. http://www.rbcbank.com/products-and-services/cid-297484.html

And yes, it does pay interest. As small as this would be on $1,000 minimum balance, what sort of American tax/SSN issues will this raise?

[angel_wing0]

Has anyone switched from RBC US to TD Bank US? Looks like they have an account that allows bill payments with monthly fees waived with minimum $100 balance.

i will have both td and rbc once the fee applies (hopefully rbc will waive another year...)

[craftsman]

And yes, it does pay interest. As small as this would be on $1,000 minimum balance, what sort of American tax/SSN issues will this raise?

Shouldn't really be anything. I receive dividend income from a stock purchase plan in an US account. The tax is deducted at the source and then I claim it back when I file taxes in Canada.

[angel_wing0]

And yes, it does pay interest. As small as this would be on $1,000 minimum balance, what sort of American tax/SSN issues will this raise?

i doubt it would raise anything.

[mc_molineux]

i will have both td and rbc once the fee applies (hopefully rbc will waive another year...)

Hopefully indeed. Has anyone called in to try yet? I remember it was around Family Day last year when I had the first year waived, so I am coming close to having to try again.

[angel_wing0]

Hopefully indeed. Has anyone called in to try yet? I remember it was around Family Day last year when I had the first year waived, so I am coming close to having to try again.

i'll be calling in early feb.

[Shiftup]

Found this thread, getting ready to jump in.

Whats the best way to do so - Harris BMO? with account
How does everyone transfer funds over to the US Bank,etc?

thnx

[craftsman]

Found this thread, getting ready to jump in.

Whats the best way to do so - Harris BMO? with account
How does everyone transfer funds over to the US Bank,etc?

thnx

Easiest way is RBC unless you don't like RBC...

Check out my post a few pages back on opening a no-monthly fee set of accounts with a no fee RBC USA Signature VISA card.

[laptop-tech]

RBC was easy breeze for me. Opened the account at the branch across the street, got the documents mailed out to me, setup online, and voila. Transfer funds both ways anytime, instantly online. Got cheques to link to my other accounts. Cant ask for more.

[angel_wing0]

Found this thread, getting ready to jump in.

Whats the best way to do so - Harris BMO? with account
How does everyone transfer funds over to the US Bank,etc?

thnx

TD and RBC are the best options.

[Shiftup]

Easiest way is RBC unless you don't like RBC...

Check out my post a few pages back on opening a no-monthly fee set of accounts with a no fee RBC USA Signature VISA card.


RBC was easy breeze for me. Opened the account at the branch across the street, got the documents mailed out to me, setup online, and voila. Transfer funds both ways anytime, instantly online. Got cheques to link to my other accounts. Cant ask for more.

Thanks, much appreciated.

[aaa111]

My 1 year fee waiver for the RBC account is finishing soon. Has anyone been able to negotiate another year's worth of waived fees?

[angel_wing0]

My 1 year fee waiver for the RBC account is finishing soon. Has anyone been able to negotiate another year's worth of waived fees?

i m calling in next week. If they dont give it to me i'll just switch my account to the savings one.

[bkost]

Those who applied for a BofA Visa in branch few month ago - did you get the $100 sign up bonus as advertised on their website? Mine was long overdue and when I inquired, I was informed that there was no promo on my account upon opening (applied in Blaine).

[mmadness]

Those who applied for a BofA Visa in branch few month ago - did you get the $100 sign up bonus as advertised on their website? Mine was long overdue and when I inquired, I was informed that there was no promo on my account upon opening (applied in Blaine).

I would like to know this as well.

I am still waiting for mine (opened eChecking on Jan. 15 in Blaine as well). I was not told in-branch about the offer when I applied for the VISA. When I sent them an email about it they said that if I'm approved for the card then the 90 days starts on approval, not the time of application (my original question).

So anybody who has this card chime in?

[craftsman]

My 1 year fee waiver for the RBC account is finishing soon. Has anyone been able to negotiate another year's worth of waived fees?

Just switch it over to the Money Market Investment Account... 6 free checks a month, no fees, and pays interest (almost no interest but at least enough to buy a pack of gum a year!) but you need a $1000 min. balance to keep it free.

[angel_wing0]

Just switch it over to the Money Market Investment Account... 6 free checks a month, no fees, and pays interest (almost no interest but at least enough to buy a pack of gum a year!) but you need a $1000 min. balance to keep it free.

i'll probably be doing that next week...

[retireyoung55]

My one year fee waiver is up in February or March as well. A couple of questions for those of you that have already made the switch. On the website there is a Money Market Investment Account and a Preferred Money Market Account. From what I saw both require $1000.00 to waive the monthly fee, but only the Preferred Money Market Account gives you the ability to write cheques from what I saw. If I'm misinformed please corrrect me.

For those that have the Preferred Money Market Account do you still have access to the US bank to US bank transfer on the RBC website. I like that once the money is in RBC USA, I can then push money out to a few other US banks that I have. Can you still do this with the Preferred MMA?

[craftsman]

My one year fee waiver is up in February or March as well. A couple of questions for those of you that have already made the switch. On the website there is a Money Market Investment Account and a Preferred Money Market Account. From what I saw both require $1000.00 to waive the monthly fee, but only the Preferred Money Market Account gives you the ability to write cheques from what I saw. If I'm misinformed please corrrect me.

For those that have the Preferred Money Market Account do you still have access to the US bank to US bank transfer on the RBC website. I like that once the money is in RBC USA, I can then push money out to a few other US banks that I have. Can you still do this with the Preferred MMA?

The Preferred Money Market Account is only available to those with a preferred status with the bank.

The Money Market Investment Account is the same as the Preferred without the higher interest rates on your savings. And yes the Money Market Investment account does allow you to write 6 free checks a month. I verified that with them when I opened an account last year and they said it was an oversight on their website.

You will need to verify with the RBC USA on that feature.

[angel_wing0]

^ well the free checks are useless unless we have actual cheques to write, doubt they are free...unless the old checking ones still work after the account transfer?

[craftsman]

^ well the free checks are useless unless we have actual cheques to write, doubt they are free...unless the old checking ones still work after the account transfer?

They gave me free checks as well.

[angel_wing0]

They gave me free checks as well.

oh really? is the first set free or something? did they charge u shipping for them?

[craftsman]

oh really? is the first set free or something? did they charge u shipping for them?

No charge for shipping them and I got 50 checks. I don't know how much it will cost to reorder (or if it's included) but I don't see myself using too many US checks so 50 should last me years.

[angel_wing0]

No charge for shipping them and I got 50 checks. I don't know how much it will cost to reorder (or if it's included) but I don't see myself using too many US checks so 50 should last me years.

thanks, did u order them while u convert to the new account or online?

[craftsman]

thanks, did u order them while u convert to the new account or online?

When the account was being opened on the phone with the CSR... I didn't convert but started new.

[angel_wing0]

When the account was being opened on the phone with the CSR... I didn't convert but started new.

oh...thanks.

[dtm252535]

Is there a us account I can get that will allow me to do online transfers to questrade account instead of having to do the pre authorized deposits using a Canadian based US dollars account?

[angel_wing0]

just closed my rbc royal embassy account and opened a new personal savings account. A $300 mbm is way better than the $1k money market investment for me...only missing thing is bill payment/cheques which i dont really use.

[Mr_A]

Does anybody have any experience with this (https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/checking/ebanking-online-checking-account.go) Bank of America eBanking account ? It's free as long as you do your banking online and choose paperless statements. I just setup this account while I was in states few months ago. They provided the Debit Visa ATM card and I can do online purchases.

Any comments on best ways to transfer small amounts of money from Canada to my account ?

[mc_molineux]

just closed my rbc royal embassy account and opened a new personal savings account. A $300 mbm is way better than the $1k money market investment for me...only missing thing is bill payment/cheques which i dont really use.

You don't have the RBC USA Visa? Wouldn't that be a bill payment?

Also, did you try for the fee waiver and were denied, or didn't bother and just switched it right away?

[angel_wing0]

You don't have the RBC USA Visa? Wouldn't that be a bill payment?

Also, did you try for the fee waiver and were denied, or didn't bother and just switched it right away?
i do, but u can actually pay rbc usa visa through personal savings: http://forums.redflagdeals.com/us-credit-card-bank-account-canadians-all-free-done-online-telephone-1239599/4/#post16284260 (dont want to type the same thing again :D)

i tried and was denied...they said the deadline for the 2012-13 fee waiver is march 31st, and no one will be able to get the waiver again...well i m sure there are special cases but thats what i was told.

[Jonavin]

Can you do online transfers from your Canadian account with Persnal Savings. Having to call every times want to pay my Visa is going to be a pain.

[angel_wing0]

Can you do online transfers from your Canadian account with Persnal Savings.

Having to call every times want to pay my Visa is going to be a pain.

yes...but it counts against your 6 monthly debits.

Well once a month, not the end of the world.

[mmadness]

Does anybody have any experience with this (https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/checking/ebanking-online-checking-account.go) Bank of America eBanking account ? It's free as long as you do your banking online and choose paperless statements. I just setup this account while I was in states few months ago. They provided the Debit Visa ATM card and I can do online purchases.

Any comments on best ways to transfer small amounts of money from Canada to my account ?

I just applied for one in person in the middle of January.

Assuming you don't want to do any wires because of small amounts...

Best way I think is xe.com, as they can directly ACH the money into your BOA account from your Canadian (withdraw with EFT). No wires involved. If you are in the Vancouver area then I believe VBCE has the ability to ACH into a US account but you have to sign up with them as a sole proprietor or business. They may charge a small fee for ACH but these ways should be fastest.

If you don't care about speed then you can link up your USD account with your PayPal account and Canadian account and slowly move money. Min. transfer is $1 USD and you have to deal with PayPal's conversion rate (not the best compared to xe.com or VBCE).

Goes without saying that the part going through PayPal is slow. I have tried to open up a Popmoney and Amazon Payments account to see if going from USD->USD transfer is faster with them but they require a SSN, which I do not have.

EDIT: Removed section about going from RBC USD (Canadian) to PayPal because PayPal doesn't allow you to do that. But you can open up an RBC USD (US) account with minimum $300 balance and then go from RBC USD (US)->PayPal->BOA.

[mc_molineux]

i do, but u can actually pay rbc usa visa through personal savings: http://forums.redflagdeals.com/us-credit-card-bank-account-canadians-all-free-done-online-telephone-1239599/4/#post16284260 (dont want to type the same thing again :D)

i tried and was denied...they said the deadline for the 2012-13 fee waiver is march 31st, and no one will be able to get the waiver again...well i m sure there are special cases but thats what i was told.

Thanks for the info. It looks like I will be switching to the local bank in the border town near here. I was going to do this last year, but when I called to cancel my RBC US account, they offered me the fee waiver.

Good to know I have until the end of March to get that set up.

[Intel1]

I would like to know this as well.

I am still waiting for mine (opened eChecking on Jan. 15 in Blaine as well). I was not told in-branch about the offer when I applied for the VISA. When I sent them an email about it they said that if I'm approved for the card then the 90 days starts on approval, not the time of application (my original question).

So anybody who has this card chime in?

Howdy. I applied for this as well, at Blaine. They did not tell me about the $100 sign up bonus either. As I understand, one needs to make $500 purchases within 90 days of opening the account so loooong way to go for me. This is from BoA website "Get a $100 cash back bonus after you make $500 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening"

My card is not approved yet but I will post back here once I get $100 credit;).

[Maymybonneliveforever]

I found this thread very interesting but I didn't want to read through over 900 post, I know it's a lot to ask for but is there a summary post somewhere?

[angel_wing0]

I found this thread very interesting but I didn't want to read through over 900 post, I know it's a lot to ask for but is there a summary post somewhere?

search will probably be your best friend...

[wmac]

Does anybody have any experience with this (https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/checking/ebanking-online-checking-account.go) Bank of America eBanking account ? It's free as long as you do your banking online and choose paperless statements. I just setup this account while I was in states few months ago. They provided the Debit Visa ATM card and I can do online purchases.

Any comments on best ways to transfer small amounts of money from Canada to my account ?
AS mmadness mentioned in Post #940, paypal has a poor exchange rate,but for small amounts its not too painful.
I'm assuming that they gave you a BofA Visa credit card, as well as a Debit Card. Mine is a no fee card. If they didn't, ask for one when you get the routing numbers. (Passport, Canadian address & Canadian SIN card needed.)
The following info assumes that you have a Credit Card. If you only have the US debit card it may work for Paypal, but I'm not sure.
First of all set up your BofA account as paperless using a US address (I used Letterlock in Sumas, where I do pick up parcels)
Next time you are in the US, drop into any BofA branch and get the routing numbers. (I've forgotten what they are).
You need to be in the states to ensure that you are using an american IP address.
Go to a free wifi hotspot (I did it from my car parked outside McDonalds) and do the following.....

Set up a paypal account with a different email address to your Canadian paypal account.(I used my gmail address).
Link it to your US bank account. That's where you need the routing numbers.

Once you've done that, when your US Visa bill arrives, login to your Canadian paypal account and send money to your US paypal account.
You'll get two emails from paypal, one to say you've sent money and the other to say you've received money.
Log in to your US paypal account, and transfer the money to your US bank account.
When you receive notification from BofA, you can login to the Bof A account and transfer the money to Visa.

It sounds complicated, but once you have it set up, it works like a charm and it will probably work with the debit card info.
And while you are at it, if you live close to the border set up a US ebay account. Using the gmail as your contact info.I've found it so much easier having a Canadian eBay account and a US eBay account. I can pay from my Canadian paypal, and my US (Letterlock) & Canadian addresses both show up as verified.

[wmac]

Good point on the SSN, I forgot about that little detail cuz I got one from working there and so was just trying to share the parts after that to eventually get enough credit to get loans there. Let me see if I can find a definite answer but it sounds like it would be tricky. However I guess it wouldn't hurt to get the products, then if you get a SSN# in the future then maybe you can just join the card histories to the SSN.

I can't shed too much light on this. However when I set up the BofA account, I was given a cc as well as the debit card, which surprised me as I had no prior US credit history. I don't think they even asked for CDN cc info. The bank used my cdn SIN for ID purposes.

[mmadness]

Howdy. I applied for this as well, at Blaine. They did not tell me about the $100 sign up bonus either. As I understand, one needs to make $500 purchases within 90 days of opening the account so loooong way to go for me. This is from BoA website "Get a $100 cash back bonus after you make $500 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening"

My card is not approved yet but I will post back here once I get $100 credit;).

UPDATE: Just picked up my BOA Cash Rewards VISA from Pt. Roberts. Called the 1-800 number to activate, and they said I wasn't eligible for the $100 cash back bonus within 90 days! Ouch. So apparently because I applied in-branch instead of online, I am not eligible. Sounds odd though - anybody else who received the card end up in this situation? They did tell me that the individual branch manager/personnel have the authority to be able to issue rewards based on credit cards and to contact my banker once I have spent $500, but it does not sound automatic.

[panda470]

I believe for those who are expat CDN's, if we initially start up an RBC USA Visa, reference our Canadian credit for the check and approval that will get the card in your hands. Since receiving and using this card I had contacted RBC USA to link my US SSN to the card, and then that way RBC USA will report your usage to the US bureaus.

So those who have a valid SSN and work permit for the US, this is a good way to build credit and have it instantly granted with your history in Canada. Each has their own circumstances, of course those who are strictly Canadian citizens without business in the US, you won't build a credit history in the US, which is probably what you refer to. :)

Do you need the work permit as well? or just a SSN is good?

[CorSter]

Do you need the work permit as well? or just a SSN is good?

SSN is all you need to build credit, but the work permit or permanent residency is how you get the SSN :p

[Beachdown]

This may have already been asked but I can't find a direct answer in this thread.

With the RBC Access Visa, do you need to have a US billing address in order for it to be accepted at the U.S. retailers that don't accept Cdn. credit cards (ie. Costco.com)? Or the fact that it's a U.S. credit card is good enough?

[mc_molineux]

This may have already been asked but I can't find a direct answer in this thread.

With the RBC Access Visa, do you need to have a US billing address in order for it to be accepted at the U.S. retailers that don't accept Cdn. credit cards (ie. Costco.com)? Or the fact that it's a U.S. credit card is good enough?

Add the address you are going to ship to as an address on the account.

[CorSter]

This may have already been asked but I can't find a direct answer in this thread.

With the RBC Access Visa, do you need to have a US billing address in order for it to be accepted at the U.S. retailers that don't accept Cdn. credit cards (ie. Costco.com)? Or the fact that it's a U.S. credit card is good enough?

Costco blacklists many of the US package recieving locations like the UPS Store in Ogdensburg, so I hope you have an "Amerifriend" to send it to.

[Beachdown]

Costco blacklists many of the US package recieving locations like the UPS Store in Ogdensburg, so I hope you have an "Amerifriend" to send it to.

I have a cottage just west of Ogdensburg but no one is there during the week to accept packages. I can use that as my billing address but would prefer not to. I don't have any friends that live close enough on that side of the border to deliver to that would make sense financially.

Thanks for the info.

[indep99]

Does anyone know if we can set up a direct deposit to a JP morgan chase bank account from the RBC USD bank account?

[retireyoung55]

Does anyone know if we can set up a direct deposit to a JP morgan chase bank account from the RBC USD bank account?

If you're referring to RBC Bank (Gerogia) N.A. then yes you can. Sign in to online banking go to transfers at the top of the screen, then select registered external accounts. You will then click add external account you will then be asked for the routing number and account number or your external account(s) in your case JP morgan chase. After you've completed entering your routing & account number RBC will make two micro-deposits for less than $1.00 into your JP Morgan chase account. Sign in to your chase account in a day or two and write down the two deposit amounts. You then go back into RBC go to transfers, then pending external accounts and enter your two deposits to confirm the account. (Same process as PayPal). Once you've done this you can direct deposit from RBC to JP Morgan Chase. You can go the other way as well and pull money from JP Morgan back into your RBC account. When you pull money into RBC from an external account there is a hold period so wait a few days and check that your available balance is the same as your actual bank balance. When you push money out to JP Morgan Chase however, as soon as it hits JP Morgan it will be available as JP will see it as a direct deposit.

You don't have to have the Royal Embassy checking account to do this. The personal savings account (minimum balance $300 to avoid $5.00 per month service charge) and money market investment account (minimum $1000.00 to avoid $5.00 monthly service charge) will also allow you to register external bank accounts and transfer back and forth. The Royal Embassy checking account has no minimum balance requirement however there is a $3.95 monthly fee you can't get out of, $2.95 if you use e-statements. Personal savings and money market investment account you are limited to 6 debits per month. No checks available for personal savings, checks are available for money market account. No bill pay for personal savings or money market, but if you have Chase you may not need that anyway. I know they can link your Visa debit card to the personal savings account as well as they did for me. I ditched the checking and switched to the personal savings as I have othe US accounts with online bill pay. With personal savings you can also get Paypal set-up if you like by using the routing number 063216608 and combining it with your savings account number.

[Beachdown]

RBC Access account - went to my branch and set it up. Got the Visa debit card in the mail approximately 2 weeks later. Changed to e-statements and my billing address to a friend's in the CO. Linked to my Cdn RBC account. Set it up as my default payment for Amazon. Works like a charm.

Thanks for all the tips and information in this thread!

[ilapastel]

Just a small question, which of these credit cards are cashback cards? I havent read through the thread just the first and last pages, but im looking to get a american credit card for purchases made online which also offers cashback

[angel_wing0]

td-us had a 1% cash back credit card, 5% for the first 6 months.

[radiko]

Isn't TD US-based account better? Can someone compare both RBC and TD accounts. Also, if possible, what's difference between a US-Based account and a Canadian-based US account?

Thanks

[mslofty]

Gosh I am just so surprise how much banks/paypal are making money off the situation I am in. I am Canadian btw. I work for this US company who pays me cheque in US currency. The job is not full time its occasional but I lose out whenever I deposit. Which banks or ways I can go about depositing these cheques and withdraw it when I need it to go to the States for trips and such. I don't need monthly service fee but probably as per transaction basis fee. I checked with HSBC bank yesterday and they told me that since this is a business transaction, I can't open a personal US account for what I am doing.

[angel_wing0]

Gosh I am just so surprise how much banks/paypal are making money off the situation I am in. I am Canadian btw. I work for this US company who pays me cheque in US currency. The job is not full time its occasional but I lose out whenever I deposit. Which banks or ways I can go about depositing these cheques and withdraw it when I need it to go to the States for trips and such. I don't need monthly service fee but probably as per transaction basis fee. I checked with HSBC bank yesterday and they told me that since this is a business transaction, I can't open a personal US account for what I am doing.

well just open a TD one, keep the mbm in there, no more fees! :)

[angel_wing0]

Isn't TD US-based account better? Can someone compare both RBC and TD accounts.
do a search, there is already a thread on that for all us accounts that can be opened here.

[chroma_cg]

td-us had a 1% cash back credit card, 5% for the first 6 months.

i have been stumbled on this myself. i was thinking of applying for the paypal debit cashback card but they scrapped it for canadian users.

so what is the process of getting the TD-US 1% cash back USD credit card? do i need to have a TD canada bank account first (coz i dont have one, im with CIBC)?

[angel_wing0]

so what is the process of getting the TD-US 1% cash back USD credit card? do i need to have a TD canada bank account first (coz i dont have one, im with CIBC)?

u have to open a bank account with td us first if u are going to apply online. According to their website only TD US account holders can apply online.

Visit a TD Bank near you

We cannot process non-TD Bank customer applications online. Visit a TD Bank near you to apply. Thank you.

[chroma_cg]

u have to open a bank account with td us first if u are going to apply online. According to their website only TD US account holders can apply online.

Visit a TD Bank near you

We cannot process non-TD Bank customer applications online. Visit a TD Bank near you to apply. Thank you.


so i just spent the past 2.5 hrs reading through the other entire TDbank thread. so i guess the process is:

- call the cross-border phone to open a TDbank US account, they will mail me stuff to fill and mail back
- fill in the forms, enclose a $100+ USD cheque, and mail it back, wait for them to activate my TD bank US account
- ask for cheques and atm/debit card, and then link to paypal (this is just me, not related to applying visa)

then i can apply for the TDbank cashback visa via online or phone?

honestly i do not mind having a US-based TDbank account with them; it will make paying the TDbank cashback visa bill online more streamlined and easier......i hope?

my end goal is: have a US-based bank account that i can write US cheques and link paypal to (so i can fund the account this way if i have to), and have a US-based cashback card linked to the US-based bank account so i can pay off the visa bill online by just transferring money to the visa balance, everything paperless except for the application process