How We Review Financial Products
Our Evaluation Methodology • Last Updated: January 2026
Important Disclosure: TrustWire Global may receive compensation from companies featured in our reviews. This compensation may influence which companies we review and where they appear. However, our evaluation criteria and ratings are based on objective analysis. Read our full advertiser disclosure →
At TrustWire Global, we evaluate financial products using rigorous, data-driven methodology. Our goal is to provide consumers and investors with objective analysis to help them make informed financial decisions—whether choosing a bank, retirement account, investment product, or financial service.
Our Review Process
Data Collection
Gather rates, fees, features, and terms directly from financial institutions
Verification
Cross-reference with regulatory filings, FDIC data, and official sources
Customer Research
Analyze verified customer reviews from BBB, Trustpilot, app stores, and forums
Expert Analysis
Our analysts evaluate each product against category-specific criteria
Product Categories We Review
Each product category has specific evaluation criteria tailored to what matters most for that type of financial product:
🏦 Banking Products
Checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, and online banks.
Fees & Costs
30% WeightMonthly maintenance fees, ATM fees, overdraft charges, and minimum balance requirements.
- Monthly maintenance fee (or how to waive it)
- ATM network size and out-of-network fees
- Overdraft fees and policies
- Wire transfer and foreign transaction fees
Interest Rates (APY)
25% WeightCompetitive rates on savings and checking products.
- Savings APY vs. national average
- Checking APY (if offered)
- Tiered rate structures
- Promotional rate duration
Digital Experience
25% WeightMobile app quality, online banking features, and digital tools.
- Mobile app ratings (iOS/Android)
- Bill pay and Zelle integration
- Mobile check deposit
- Budgeting and financial tools
Access & Convenience
20% WeightBranch network, ATM availability, and customer service.
- Branch locations (if applicable)
- ATM network coverage
- Customer service hours and channels
- Account opening ease
💰 High-Yield Savings & CDs
High-yield savings accounts, certificates of deposit, and money market accounts.
APY / Interest Rate
40% WeightThe primary factor—how much your money earns.
- Current APY vs. top competitors
- Rate consistency and history
- Compound frequency
- Minimum balance to earn stated APY
Terms & Flexibility
25% WeightCD terms, early withdrawal penalties, and account restrictions.
- CD term options (3-month to 5-year)
- Early withdrawal penalty severity
- No-penalty CD options
- Withdrawal limits (savings)
Minimums & Accessibility
20% WeightOpening deposit requirements and ongoing minimums.
- Minimum to open
- Minimum to earn APY
- Funding methods accepted
- FDIC/NCUA insurance confirmation
Institution Strength
15% WeightBank or credit union stability and reputation.
- FDIC/NCUA insured status
- Institution size and history
- Customer satisfaction ratings
- Financial health indicators
📈 Retirement Accounts
Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, SEP IRAs, 401(k) rollovers, and self-directed retirement accounts.
Fees & Costs
30% WeightAccount fees, trading costs, and expense ratios.
- Annual account maintenance fees
- Trading commissions (if any)
- Fund expense ratios
- Transfer and rollover fees
Investment Options
25% WeightRange of available investments and asset classes.
- Mutual fund selection
- ETF availability
- Individual stocks and bonds
- Alternative investments (if applicable)
Platform & Tools
25% WeightTrading platform, research tools, and retirement planning resources.
- Platform usability
- Retirement calculators and planning tools
- Research and educational content
- Mobile app functionality
Customer Support
20% WeightAccess to help when you need it.
- Phone support availability
- Access to financial advisors
- Educational resources
- Account setup assistance
🪙 Alternative Investments
Precious metals (gold, silver), real estate investments, commodities, and self-directed IRA custodians.
Reputation & Trust
25% WeightTrack record, regulatory standing, and industry reputation are critical in alternative investments.
- Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating
- Years in business
- Regulatory complaints and legal history
- Industry accreditations
- Verified customer reviews
Pricing & Fee Transparency
25% WeightClear, competitive pricing without hidden costs.
- Account setup and annual fees
- Product markup/spread (precious metals)
- Storage and custodian fees
- Liquidation/selling costs
- Fee disclosure clarity
Product Selection
20% WeightRange of investment options available.
- Variety of products offered
- Quality and authenticity verification
- IRS compliance (for retirement accounts)
- Access to different asset classes
Customer Service
15% WeightQuality of guidance and support.
- Dedicated representatives
- Response time
- Educational resources
- Post-purchase support
Security & Storage
15% WeightHow assets are secured and stored.
- Storage facility quality (precious metals)
- Insurance coverage
- Segregated vs. commingled storage
- Audit procedures
🛡️ Insurance Products
Life insurance, annuities, and insurance-based retirement products.
Financial Strength
30% WeightThe insurer's ability to pay claims is paramount.
- AM Best rating
- S&P and Moody's ratings
- Company size and history
- Claims-paying track record
Product Value
25% WeightPremiums, returns, and overall value proposition.
- Premium competitiveness
- Guaranteed rates (annuities)
- Death benefit amounts (life)
- Surrender charges and periods
Policy Features
25% WeightRiders, options, and flexibility.
- Available riders and add-ons
- Policy customization options
- Conversion privileges
- Living benefits (life insurance)
Customer Experience
20% WeightEase of purchase and ongoing service.
- Application process simplicity
- Customer service ratings
- Online account management
- Claims process reputation
Our Data Sources
Our reviews are based on information from the following sources:
- Direct company websites and disclosures
- Better Business Bureau (BBB) profiles
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) complaint database
- State attorney general consumer complaint records
- Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and verified customer feedback
- Industry publications and regulatory filings
- Direct communication with company representatives
What We Don't Do
- We do not accept payment for higher ratings
- We do not allow companies to review content before publication
- We do not guarantee any investment outcomes
- We do not provide personalized investment advice
How Often We Update
Our reviews are updated on a rolling basis. We re-evaluate companies when:
- Significant pricing or fee changes occur
- BBB ratings or complaint patterns change materially
- New regulatory actions are taken against a company
- Major service or product offering changes
- At minimum, every 6 months for comprehensive review
Questions About Our Methodology?
We welcome feedback and questions about our review process.
Contact: research@trustwireglobal.com