Articles by Simon Zhen

Simon Zhen is the chief research analyst for MyBankTracker and an expert on consumer banking products, bank innovations, and financial technology. Simon has contributed and/or been quoted in major publications and outlets including Consumer Reports, American Banker, Yahoo Finance, U.S. News - World Report, The Huffington Post, Business Insider, Lifehacker, and AOL.com. Education: Education: B.S. in Health Sciences from Stony Brook University.

Survey: How Much Money Would You Pick Up? A MyBankTracker survey looked at how much it would take for someone to pick up free money off the ground. Using Only Cash: How to Survive the Cash-Only Lifestyle Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen Using Only Cash: How to Survive the Cash-Only Lifestyle Free checking accounts can be found at online banks, credit unions, and smaller... Is the Sallie Mae Smart Option Loan Really A Smart Option? Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen Is the Sallie Mae Smart Option Loan Really A Smart Option? Sallie Mae and Alpine Bank have teamed up to offer the Smart Option Student Loan. The... What to Do If Your HELOC Is Frozen or Reduced? HELOC offers borrowers convenient access to a sizable line of credit at relatively low interest rates, homeowners might find their HELOC is suddenly being frozen or reduced. Bank of America Charges a Check Image Fee on Paper Statements Learn how to avoid the check image fee charged by Bank of America when you have a cancelled check image on paper statements. Cashier’s Check, Money Order and Personal Check: Which One Clears the Fastest? Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen Cashier’s Check, Money Order and Personal Check: Which One Clears the Fastest? Here are all three checks, totaling $300. How quickly deposits were... Which Banks Are Open on Sunday? Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen Which Banks Are Open on Sunday? Long before the digital age, banks and financial institutions closed during the... The Best Business Credit Cards for Travel in 2024 Find out which business credit cards are best for earning travel rewards and/or offer the most premium travel perks for business travelers. Why a Savings Account Remains Important in Your 40s Find out why you shouldn't ignore a savings account in your 40s, when your finances have become more comprehensive and more complicated. Gainbridge FastBreak Annuity 2024 Review Photo of Simon Zhen Simon Zhen Gainbridge FastBreak Annuity 2024 Review The Gainbridge FastBreak Annuity offers an intriguing option for individuals...