National Bank of Canada Review

Pros and cons of National Bank of Canada

There’s plenty to like about the National Bank of Canada, but no bank or credit union is without its drawbacks. Here’s what to consider before you open an account.

National Bank of Canada overview

In 1979, Bank Canadian National and The Provincial Bank merged to form The National Bank of Canada, sometimes known as NBC CA, NBC or National Bank. Today, NBC is one of the country’s largest financial institutions, with more than 30,000 employees and $454 billion in assets as of July 31, 2024.

The National Bank of Canada provides bank accounts, lending and investment products, and wealth management services to millions of individuals and businesses across the country. Although it primarily serves Quebec, the National Bank of Canada has more than 360 branches and over 940 banking machines across Canada.

Online banking capabilities at National Bank of Canada

Like most of Canada’s major banks and credit unions, the National Bank of Canada offers a full suite of online banking services through its website (www.nbc.ca) and mobile app.

NBC customers can use the online portal and app to conduct just about any banking transaction, and enjoy access to features such as mobile cheque deposit, mobile payments and Interac e-transfers. To log in to the National Bank of Canada, visit its online banking portal via your desktop or mobile device. If you’re a new account customer, you may need to register your account first.

Is my money safe at the National Bank of Canada?

The National Bank of Canada is a member of the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation, or CDIC, providing protection of up to $100,000 of chequing, savings and other funds in the unlikely event of bankruptcy.

Furthermore, NBC says that it ensures the confidentiality and security of customers’ financial information through two-factor authentication, encryption systems, optional SecurID tokens for business clients, and the option to enroll in enhanced identity theft and credit monitoring tools.

National Bank of Canada account types

National Bank of Canada saving account

National Bank of Canada chequing accounts

Many of the National Bank of Canada’s chequing accounts have monthly fees that vary based on the age of the account holder and their account balance. Clients in certain professions can also take advantage of customized banking offers.

National Bank of Canada credit cards

The National Bank of Canada offers a variety of branded Mastercard options, including:

National Bank of Canada investing accounts

Other National Bank of Canada services

National Bank of Canada fees

Banking fees can vary based on the accounts you have and how you use them. Here are some of the common fees you may encounter using the National Bank of Canada’s financial products and services:

Who’s the National Bank of Canada best for?

Quebecers who want a big bank that offers a wide variety of chequing or registered account options.

The National Bank of Canada’s long history and big bank reputation mean that it can offer a wide variety of banking products to customers of all ages and financial backgrounds. If you prefer to bank in person, branches may be harder to find outside of Quebec, but if you’re comfortable with online banking, NBC’s suite of digital banking features will make it easy to deposit and transfer money on the go.

How the National Bank of Canada compares to other Big Banks

» MORE: Read our Banking Reviews of other Big Banks, credit unions and online-only banks.