Commerce Bank, also known as Commerce Bancshares, Inc., was founded more than 150 years ago by Francis Reid. Its original name was the Kansas City Savings Association, but it was renamed the National Bank of Commerce in 1890. The company operates as a super-community bank that offers a wide variety of sophisticated financial products.
thumb_up
The Good
- Fast approvals
- Special loan programs
- Discounts for CommerceOptions Checking customers
Fast Approvals
Commerce Bank states offers a simple application process that can be completed by phone, online, or in person. Additionally, the company states that it offers fast approvals; in most cases, your funds are available by check on the same day. Commerce Bank also provides pre-approvals so you can shop with confidence.
Special Loan Programs
There are several special loan programs available through Commerce Bank, including the following:
- Classic Car Loan - This program allows you to finance a classic car at the same rate as a used car
- Student Auto Loan - This program provides special auto loans for students currently enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, or technical schools
Discounts for CommerceOptions Checking Customers
Commerce Bank offers rate discounts up to 0.75 percent to customers who also sign up for its CommerceOptions Checking program (some restrictions apply). An additional discount of 0.25 percent is also available for customers who choose to have payments automatically deducted from their Commerce checking account each month.
thumb_down
The Bad
- Minimum loan requirement
- Refinancing terms not disclosed
- Important information not on website
Minimum Loan Requirement
Unfortunately, Commerce Bank has a minimum loan requirement of $7,000. This means that if you find a car that's less than $7,000, you'll either have to apply for the company's ReadyLine of Credit, which is basically a cash advance and usually carries a higher interest rate than a traditional auto loan, or find another company to work with.
Refinancing Terms Not Disclosed
Commerce Bank states that it offers vehicle refinancing, but no further information is provided on the company's website. It would be helpful if refinancing terms were disclosed to help potential customers know what to expect.
Important Information Not On Website
There are several pieces of important information that are not disclosed on Commerce Bank's corporate website. For example, the company has not listed its terms for approval, its minimum credit rating, its fees, or its mileage restrictions. This lack of transparency can be frustrating for potential customers trying to decide whether or not Commerce Bank is a good fit for their needs.
gavel
The Bottom Line
Commerce Bank offers quick approvals, a number of special loan programs, and discounts for its CommerceOptions Checking customers. However, the company has a relatively high minimum loan requirement and has not disclosed a number of important pieces of information on its website.