Should I keep my money at an online bank, a credit union, or a big bank?

Each has strengths, so the best choice depends on what you value. Online banks usually offer the highest savings rates and lowest fees because they have no branches, making them ideal for an emergency fund — just confirm FDIC insurance and easy transfers. Credit unions are member-owned nonprofits that often have competitive rates, lower fees, and strong customer service, with NCUA insurance that mirrors FDIC coverage; many people use one as their primary relationship bank. Big national banks shine on convenience — branches everywhere, large ATM networks, full-service products — but typically pay very low savings rates and charge more fees. A common, sensible setup is a big bank or credit union for daily checking and a high-yield online account for the emergency fund, getting both convenience and yield. Whatever you pick, verify federal insurance.