Thus we kick off our best bank offer awards for 2011.  There have been significant changes to the banking landscape in the US this year, thanks to idiotic regulatory changes brought to you by an idiotic Congress and executive.  In any event, some banks rise above the fray and they should be honored.  In any event, without further pause our best bank of 2011 is…

Charles Schwab Bank

Despite having no retail locations, this bank takes the cake for its attractive checking interest rate, free everything, ATM rebates, and now iPhone and Android smartphone apps for depositing checks.  Above all else, the customer service is top notch.

Congratulations Charles Schwab Bank.

The current offering from the Charles Schwab Visa offers a compelling mix of low interest rates, appealing teaser rates, and rewards.  One of the main drivers of high interest rate cards is seemingly attractive ‘points’ programs.  This almost always never pays off.  There are, however, some credit cards that offer both low annual percentage rates on credit card purchases and a decent rewards program.  One of these right now is the Charles Schwab Visa.  The card currently has a low variable 7.9% interest rate on purchases.  It’s introductory teaser rate is only 1.9% and includes both balance transfers and cash advances.  The rewards are offered at 1 point for every $1 spent on the card.  Also, of course, like all of the ‘best offers’ from credit cards, there is no annual fee.  Take a look at their homepage, do your homework, and decide if this card is right for you.  A person carrying a $2,500 balance for the next year could save over $200 by switching from a 12% credit card to the Schwab Visa.

Charles Schwab Credit Card site.