Drive up to BMO saw this cool man in a motorcycle. He was playing real nice music. He was chilling and enjoying life. Security was the normal security. But, he was ok! So yeah, I'm enjoying watching movies on my iPad. I'm gonna head in and take care of business! read more

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This bank has such a friendly and cozy atmosphere. I've been banking here for years, and every visit has been a positive experience. I'm always helped quickly and efficiently, and the staff is consistently knowledgeable, kind, and welcoming. I know there are some negative reviews, but from my own experience, they don't reflect the service I've received. I used to work in retail, so I understand that customer service employees are human too and that everyone can have an off day. Because of that, I try to be open-minded and understanding whenever I visit any business. This branch has always treated me with respect, and I truly appreciate the great service they provide. At the end of the day, respect and kindness are free, and I think they go a long way for both customers and employees. read more

Great bank, nice and friendly staff, quick and convenient service. I recommend going here, it's never busy and you'll be helped quickly and efficiently. read more

As lawsuits pile up on BMO for illegal activity you need to bail out of this bank before they steal your money. I deposited a ton of cash today and then was told the computer froze and the funds won't be ready until they call me back and say it's ready. I asked for the money back and they refused claiming it's not in the computer. BMO is a one big ponzi scheme. The branch manager is the rudest woman I have ever encountered in my life. Get out while you can. As of March 20, 2025, here's an overview of pending lawsuits involving Bank of Montreal (BMO) based on available information: 140+ Customers' Class Action for Transfer Fraud (2024) Over 140 BMO customers are pursuing a class-action lawsuit, claiming the bank failed to prevent fraudulent transfers totaling more than $1.5 million. Reported in April 2024, victims allege cybercriminals accessed their accounts via malware or phishing, executing unauthorized e-transfers, wire transfers, and bill payments. BMO has denied liability, asserting the transactions used correct credentials, and the Ombudsman for Banking Services and Investments (OBSI) largely sided with the bank. There's no public update on whether this suit has been formally filed or certified as of today. Vacation Pay Class Action (Certified 2024) In March 2024, the Supreme Court of British Columbia certified a class action against BMO on behalf of private wealth consultants and mortgage specialists over unpaid holiday and vacation pay. The case, involving non-unionized, commission-based employees, awaits minor amendments to the plaintiffs' pleadings. It alleges breaches of contract and duty of good faith. No resolution has been reported yet. Plan Forfeiture Lawsuit (Filed 2024) Filed in November 2024 in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, this suit accuses BMO and its benefits committee of misusing forfeited 401(k) plan assets under ERISA rules. Plaintiff John Shulak claims BMO used these funds to reduce employer contributions rather than benefit participants. BMO intends to defend vigorously, but the case remains pending. Whistleblower Retaliation Lawsuit (Filed 2024) In September 2024, former employee Todd Saran sued BMO in California's Contra Costa County Superior Court, alleging wrongful termination after he reported overcharging in BMO's "Treasury Now" FX portal. Saran claims retaliation for whistleblowing, seeking $2 million-plus in damages. BMO denies the allegations, and the case is ongoing. read more

BMO Bank - Banks & Credit Unions Near Me - El Cerrito, California

If I could give zero stars, I would. This branch treated me like a criminal for trying to access my own money. After opening a new account and receiving a legitimate insurance payout (from a house robbery, no less), I attempted to withdraw funds I legally own. First, my card was locked after a $1,000 withdrawal. I called and confirmed my identity. The next day, I visited the branch to withdraw a larger amount--$8,500--and was met with suspicion, interrogation, and ultimately a fraud investigation and complete account freeze. They refused to believe me, even when I brought documentation, and told me I might not see my money for 30 to 90 days. I'm a student at UC Berkeley, a father, and someone who has turned his life around after incarceration. To be treated like this by a financial institution--especially while trying to rebuild my life--is both dehumanizing and enraging. The branch manager (Nicki) showed no empathy, no common sense, and certainly no urgency. Just robotic suspicion and a smug dismissal of my reality. This experience was not just frustrating--it was traumatic. This bank is not safe if you're low-income, formerly incarcerated, or a person of color. They'll take your deposits without question, but if you try to use your funds? Suddenly, you're guilty until proven innocent. Do better, BMO. read more

BMO has the worst CS! All calls are off shore which means they don't give a DAMN about their customers!!!!! If I could give zero stars I would call was hung up on and they did not call back. Maybe cheap labor, but horrible service. read more

Still seems to be a fine bank, but I do almost everything online. Their recent offer of savings accounts was in fact what I wanted but kept forgetting. The transition when Bank of the West was acquired was a little rough, UI and API access was tricky The North Berkeley location is great, with the small parking lot, especially nice for disabled customers. When they were Bank of the West, I liked seeing the local merchants come in to bank, depositing cash and talking with the staff. The people were helpful, I hope they're still there. They don't send tons of paper or electronic marketing messages. read more

ZERO STARS TIMES A THOUSAND S--t on a shingle. Do not go here! I went in because I have a Tesla car loan with them for three years, which has been fine (except WHY when you're on autopay continuously for years do they AGAIN send a fat envelope of tear-off payment coupons?). I needed a new checking account so I could distribute funds from an IRS tax refund from a trust amongst my siblings. I presented the check from the US Treasury made out to the trust and asked, since I already had a relationship with BMO, if we could try opening a checking account for the trust to distribute these funds. The man at his desk, a very personable and nice guy, said yes, we can do that for you: open a checking account. I provided all the requested paperwork for their legal team, which was approved after a day. Great. The account was opened, they deposited the check from the US Treasury, and handed me the usual sheet of three starter checks. After a couple of days, I wrote the checks and sent them out. Then, eight days later, I arrived home in the evening and found in the mail a notice from BMO. They declared that they were putting a hold on all checks on this account because they say they do this for 30 days on all new "relationships" (NOT!). This was the first I'd heard of this. The checks are already written, sent, and being deposited. I have let them know that my lawyers will be in touch. I will demand full reimbursement for all fees and expenses, including attorney's fees. This place is terrible. Forget them. and to add insult to injury, their site has locked my online account. No web access and no app access. Their servers throw only errors for the past week while trying password reset. The branch personnel try to help, say that they can't do anything, and that it's not their fault. I pointed out that it they represent their org and that they ARE responsible. I'm holding them to account. They are seriously DANGEROUS to your health and financess. AVOID! read more

They are happy to take your money but it is very difficult to get it out. They make you sign paperwork as to why you want to take your own money out. The money counter could barely work so i wasnt even sure they gave me the correct amount. I am not banking at this location anymore. read more

I've read a lot of reviews about BMO in general and should have done my research before doing business with them, then i could have reviewed what others have to say. We've seen the ads on TV and thought let's try them. They want our business. I went to two branches and was treated very poorly. Really regret going to BMOand just waiting for the right time to close our account. read more

If you want to wait a minimum of 15-20 mins on the phone and/or in line at this particular branch then this is the bank for you. I was not happy when they transitioned from Bank of the West to BMO but I decided to give it a try. The service here has been terrible. Long waits & tellers who do not know what they are talking about. I was so dissatisfied with my service today that I closed my account. Would give zero stars if that was an option. read more