Builtwell Bank serves as a trusted regional community banking institution operating 31+ branches across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, offering comprehensive personal and business banking services while maintaining deep roots in its core markets since its founding in 1904. As of March 2025, Builtwell completed its acquisition of Bank of Cleveland, expanding to approximately $2.3 billion in total assets and 37+ banking offices across the Southeast, making it one of the region’s strongest and growing community banks. Whether you’re searching for Builtwell Bank login instructions, trying to locate the Dalton, Georgia headquarters, finding your Builtwell Bank routing number for direct deposit setup, understanding checking account options, or exploring the bank’s recent expansion through the Bank of Cleveland acquisition, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Builtwell Bank locations, digital banking, products, and 2025 updates.
What You’ll Discover: This authoritative guide explains Builtwell Bank from every angle — the bank’s 121-year history from 1904 founding through modern banking evolution and recent Bank of Cleveland acquisition, complete branch network with specific details on flagship locations in Dalton, Georgia (6 branches), Chattanooga headquarters, and 37+ offices across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, step-by-step online and mobile banking login guide with security features and troubleshooting, Builtwell Bank routing numbers (primary: 061303348) for direct deposits, ACH transfers, and wire payments, comprehensive personal checking accounts (Beyond, Personal Interest, Heritage, Budget options), business banking with specialized Commercial Checking, savings and money market accounts, mortgage and personal loan services, Zelle person-to-person payment integration available through mobile app earning 4.5-star ratings, customer experience insights about what borrowers praise and critique, detailed comparison with competitors like Truist, Regions, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America, FDIC insurance protection details (insured since 1934), and frequently asked questions addressing headquarters location, ownership structure, checking account features, and routing number usage. Whether you’re a current Builtwell customer needing login help, a prospective client evaluating regional banks, or someone seeking to understand the bank’s recent expansion through the Bank of Cleveland merger, this guide provides authoritative information about banking with Builtwell Bank.
What Is Builtwell Bank? (History, Overview & Community Banking Philosophy)
Builtwell Bank is a regional community bank established in 1904, headquartered in Chattanooga, Tennessee, operating 31+ branches across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama with $1.9+ billion in total assets and a specialization in commercial lending.
Founding & Evolution
Builtwell Bank was founded on May 3, 1904, establishing itself as a community financial institution serving the Chattanooga and surrounding tri-state region. Over 121 years of continuous operation, the bank has grown from its original Chattanooga roots to become one of the Southeast’s prominent regional community banks.
Recent Expansion: Bank of Cleveland Acquisition (Completed March 2025)
In a significant growth milestone, Builtwell Bancorp completed its acquisition of Bradley County Financial Corp. (parent company of Bank of Cleveland) in March 2025:
Key Details:
- Acquisition Completed: Q1 2025 (March 2025)
- Combined Assets: Approximately $2.3 billion
- Combined Branches: 37+ banking offices across the Southeast
- Merger Timeline: Builtwell became surviving entity; Bank of Cleveland will merge into Builtwell Bank at a later date
- Regulatory Approvals: Received shareholder and regulatory approvals
What This Means for Customers:
- Expanded branch network and geographic reach
- Access to combined resources and lending capacity
- Continued community banking approach across larger footprint
- Enhanced product and service offerings
Current Financial Profile (2025)
Headquarters: Chattanooga, Tennessee
Key Metrics:
- Established: May 3, 1904
- Total Assets: $1.9+ billion (growing to $2.3 billion post-merger)
- Total Deposits: $1.7+ billion
- Total Equity Capital: $208+ million
- Branches: 31 current + 6 from Bank of Cleveland = 37+ total
- Annual Net Income: $19.8+ million
- Return on Assets (ROA): 2%
- Return on Equity (ROE): 19-20%
- FDIC Insured: Since January 1, 1934
Community Banking Philosophy
Builtwell Bank operates on core principles distinguishing community banks from corporate chains:
- Personal Service: Banking professionals who care about customer experience
- Commercial Lending Specialization: Deep expertise in business lending
- Relationship Banking: Long-term customer relationships versus transactional banking
- Local Decision-Making: Loan approvals made by local bankers understanding community needs
- Banking Better and Easier: Core mission to simplify and improve banking experience
Builtwell Bank Headquarters & Ownership
Headquarters Location
Builtwell Bank Corporate Headquarters
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Chattanooga, Tennessee |
| Street Address | Available at builtwell.bank or by calling main line |
| Phone | (866) 668-4700 (main customer service) |
| Website | www.builtwell.bank |
Chattanooga headquarters serves as the administrative and operational center for all Builtwell banking operations.
Corporate Ownership Structure
Parent Company: Builtwell Bancorp, Inc. (now also parent to Bank of Cleveland following March 2025 acquisition)
Holding Company Details:
- Type: Bank holding company
- Regulatory Status: Supervised by the Federal Reserve and FDIC
- Operations: Manages Builtwell Bank and Bank of Cleveland (until full merger)
- Expansion Plan: Bank of Cleveland will merge into Builtwell Bank at a later date
Bank Holding Company Benefits:
The holding company structure provides:
- Capital Management: Optimized capital structure supporting lending and growth
- Regulatory Compliance: Oversight by Federal Reserve and FDIC ensures safety
- Expansion Capacity: Resources to acquire other banks (as demonstrated with Bank of Cleveland)
- Stability: Strong equity base ($208+ million) supporting customer deposit protection
- Growth: $2.3 billion combined assets post-acquisition
Merger Integration Strategy
Following completion of the Bank of Cleveland acquisition, the integration plan involves:
- Initial Phase: Bank of Cleveland operates as separate subsidiary under Builtwell Bancorp ownership
- Transition Phase: Systems integration, staff training, process alignment
- Final Phase: Legal merger of Bank of Cleveland into Builtwell Bank (timeline TBD)
- Outcome: Single Builtwell Bank brand serving 37+ offices across expanded territory
Builtwell Bank Locations & Service Areas
Builtwell Bank operates 31+ branches across its three-state region, with expansion to 37+ offices following Bank of Cleveland acquisition.
Builtwell Bank Dalton, Georgia (Primary Market)
Dalton, Georgia serves as one of Builtwell Bank’s largest market concentrations with 6 dedicated locations serving Whitfield County:
Builtwell Bank Hamilton Branch (Downtown Dalton)
The downtown Hamilton branch represents Builtwell’s flagship Dalton location with comprehensive banking services.
Builtwell Bank Walnut Avenue Branch
The Walnut Avenue location represents Builtwell’s largest Dalton branch by deposit base.
Builtwell Bank Shugart Road Office Branch
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 785 Shugart Rd, Dalton, GA 30720 |
| Type | Full-Service Brick and Mortar Office |
| Services | Full banking services, drive-thru access |
Builtwell Bank South Thornton Avenue & Cleveland Highway Administrative Offices
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| South Thornton Ave | 905 S Thornton Ave, Dalton, GA 30720 (Limited Service) |
| Cleveland Highway | 2518 Cleveland Hwy, Dalton, GA 30721 (Limited Service) |
| Type | Administrative and Operations Support |
Builtwell Bank Ringgold Branch
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 5102 Alabama Hwy, Ringgold, GA 30736 |
| Distance | 13.5 miles from downtown Dalton |
| Type | Full-Service Brick and Mortar Office |
| Services | Personal & business banking |
Ringgold location serves customers in adjacent Catoosa County.
Dalton Market Significance
Dalton serves as Builtwell’s largest single-market presence with 6 dedicated locations, reflecting the bank’s deep roots and community commitment in this North Georgia textile and manufacturing hub.
Builtwell Bank Near Me — Branch Locator & Expansion Markets
Finding Your Nearest Builtwell Branch
Visit www.builtwell.bank and use the branch locator tool to find:
- Full-service banking offices
- Administrative offices and operations centers
- ATM locations
- Hours of operation
- Specific services available at each location
Service Area Markets Beyond Dalton
Builtwell operates branches in these Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama markets:
Tennessee:
- Chattanooga (headquarters + multiple branches)
- Cleveland area (via Bank of Cleveland acquisition)
- Additional Tennessee markets
Georgia:
- Dalton (6 branches)
- Other North Georgia communities
Alabama:
- Southeastern Alabama locations
- Additional markets via Bank of Cleveland acquisition
Post-Merger Expansion (Expected 2025-2026)
With the March 2025 completion of Bank of Cleveland acquisition, Builtwell is expanding to serve:
- Bradley County, Tennessee area
- Additional Tennessee markets
- Expanded Alabama presence
- 37+ total banking offices (up from 31)
Builtwell Bank Online Banking — Login Guide
Builtwell Bank provides comprehensive online and mobile banking enabling customers to manage accounts 24/7.
How to Log Into Builtwell Bank Online Banking (Website)
Step-by-Step Login Instructions
Step 1: Visit the Builtwell Website
Go to www.builtwell.bank and look for “Online Banking” or “Login” link.
Step 2: Select Personal or Business Online Banking
Choose the appropriate portal based on your account type (personal checking/savings vs. business banking).
Step 3: Enter Your Login Credentials
- Username: Your unique online banking username
- Password: Your secure password created during enrollment
Step 4: Click “Sign In” or “Login”
Complete any additional security verification if prompted (two-factor authentication, security questions).
First-Time Enrollment
If you’re new to Builtwell online banking:
- Click “Enroll” or “Sign Up for Online Banking”
- Provide account information and personal details
- Create username and password meeting requirements
- Verify identity through security questions or verification code
- Set up security preferences
- Access your accounts
Password Requirements
Your Builtwell online banking password must meet these standards:
- Minimum 8 characters
- Mix of uppercase and lowercase letters
- At least one number
- At least one special character
- Cannot reuse previous passwords
Builtwell Mobile Banking App — Features & Security
Mobile App: BankSanJuans/Builtwell Bank
App Name: Builtwell Bank
Developer: FVB Developer (Glacier/Builtwell systems)
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (310 reviews on Google Play)
Downloads: 10,000+ on Android
Download Links:
- iPhone/iPad: Search “Builtwell Bank” in Apple App Store
- Android: Search “Builtwell Bank” in Google Play Store
Key Mobile Features
The Builtwell mobile app provides comprehensive banking capabilities:
Account Management:
- Check account balances in real-time
- Search transaction history
- View loan account and payment information
- Access user profiles and view/download statements
- Set up balance alerts
Money Movement:
- Make mobile payments to anyone with a U.S. bank account using Zelle®
- Quickly send, receive, and request money from family/friends
- Pay bills and review payment history
- Transfer money between bank accounts
- Keep savings on pace with automatic, recurring transfers
Check Deposit:
- Mobile check deposit via smartphone camera
- Take pictures of check front and back
- Deposit checks from anywhere
Card Management:
- Manage and monitor debit and credit cards
- Set card controls and establish spending limits
- Restrict transaction types
- Receive transaction alerts
- Report lost/stolen cards
Additional Features:
- Find nearby ATMs when you need cash
- View and send secure messages
- Chat with a live representative
- eStatements access (up to 24 months)
Security Features
Protection Measures:
- 4-digit passcode protection
- Biometric authentication (fingerprint/Face ID on supported devices)
- Same login security as online banking
- Additional protection layer when logging in from unrecognized computer
- All transactions encrypted with same secure technology as online banking
- Privacy policy protection
How to Enable Biometric Login
- Open Builtwell mobile app
- Navigate to “Settings” or “Security” section
- Select “Enable Biometric Authentication”
- Register your fingerprint or Face ID per device prompts
- Use biometric login for faster, more secure access
Login Troubleshooting Guide
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Forgot Password | Click “Forgot Password?” on login page; verify identity and create new password |
| Forgot Username | Click “Forgot Username?” or call customer service: (866) 668-4700 |
| Account Locked | Usually unlocks after 24 hours; call customer service to unlock immediately |
| Verification Code Not Received | Check spam folder; request new code; verify phone number on file is correct |
| App Won’t Load | Ensure app is up to date; restart phone; check internet connection |
| Login Errors on New Device | App may require additional verification for unrecognized devices (security feature) |
| Mobile App Crashes | Update to latest version; restart phone; clear app cache |
| Can’t Enroll | Verify account information matches records; ensure you’re using correct login portal |
For assistance, call Builtwell Bank customer service: (866) 668-4700 (available during business hours).
Builtwell Bank Routing Number — Complete Information
What Is a Routing Number & Why You Need It
A routing number is a nine-digit code identifying the specific financial institution where your account is held. Banks use routing numbers for:
- Direct Deposit: Setting up paycheck deposits from employers
- ACH Transfers: Automatic recurring payments and bill pay
- Wire Transfers: Sending money to other banks
- Check Processing: Routing checks through the Federal Reserve system
- Electronic Payments: Automatic utility payments, loan payments
Builtwell Bank Routing Numbers
Primary Routing Number
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Routing Number | 061303348 |
| Bank Name | Builtwell Bank |
| Location | Chattanooga, TN |
| Phone | 423-668-4500 |
| Type | Main Office |
| FedACH Processing | Yes |
| Fedwire Processing | Yes |
| Status | Active |
This is the primary routing number for most Builtwell Bank transactions.
Secondary Routing Number (First Volunteer Bank)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Routing Number | 061104945 |
| Bank Name | First Volunteer Bank (Builtwell division) |
| Location | Chattanooga, TN |
| FedACH Processing | Yes |
| Fedwire Processing | No |
This secondary routing number may be used for specific transaction types.
Where to Find Your Routing Number
Method 1: Check Your Checks
The routing number appears on the bottom left corner of your Builtwell checks in this format:
- Bottom left (first 9 digits): Routing number (061303348)
- Next 12 digits: Account number
- Last 4 digits: Check number
Method 2: Online Banking
- Log into your Builtwell online banking
- View account information or statements
- Routing number typically displayed on account details page
Method 3: Customer Service
Call Builtwell Bank customer service: (866) 668-4700
They’ll verify your account and provide routing number.
Method 4: Builtwell Website
Visit www.builtwell.bank for routing number information.
Using Your Routing Number Safely
✅ Safe Uses:
- Setting up direct deposit with employer
- Paying bills through your online banking
- Authorizing recurring ACH payments
- Receiving electronic transfers from other institutions
❌ Don’t Share Routing Number For:
- Loans or credit inquiries (except through Builtwell directly)
- Payments to unknown vendors
- Sharing on unsecured websites
Security Note: Your routing number is publicly available information (used on every check). It’s safe to share for legitimate banking purposes, but always verify you’re communicating with your actual bank.
Builtwell Bank Accounts & Financial Services
Builtwell Bank Checking Accounts
Account Options
Builtwell offers four personal checking account options to fit different banking needs and activity levels:
Beyond Checking (Premium Option)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Active customers wanting premium benefits |
| Features | Interest-bearing account with exclusive Beyond Benefits |
| Benefits | (Contact branch for complete benefit details) |
| Unlimited Check Writing | Yes |
| Custom Builtwell Logo Checks | 1st order included |
| Fraud Monitoring | Yes |
| Mobile Banking | Yes |
Personal Interest Checking
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Customers seeking interest-bearing checking |
| Features | Interest earnings + standard checking features |
| Unlimited Check Writing | Yes |
| Custom Logo Checks | 1st order included |
| Fraud Monitoring | Yes |
| Mobile Banking | Yes |
Heritage Checking
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Traditional banking customers |
| Features | Standard checking with core benefits |
| Unlimited Check Writing | Yes |
| Custom Logo Checks | 1st order included |
| Fraud Monitoring | Yes |
| Mobile Banking | Yes |
Budget Checking
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Cost-conscious customers with lower activity |
| Features | Economical checking with essential services |
| Unlimited Check Writing | Yes |
| Fraud Monitoring | Yes |
| Mobile Banking | Yes |
Standard Checking Features (All Accounts Include)
✅ Unlimited check writing
✅ Builtwell CheckCard (debit card)
✅ Mobile banking and online access
✅ Fraud monitoring
✅ eStatements (paperless option)
✅ Mobile check deposit
✅ Bill pay service
✅ Zelle® person-to-person payments
Fees & Minimums
Contact your local Builtwell branch for current fee schedules and minimum balance requirements, as these vary based on account type and activity level.
Business & Commercial Checking Accounts
Business Checking (Low Activity)
Designed for small businesses with lower transaction volumes:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Small businesses with lower checking activity |
| Features | Complementary fraud monitoring, notary service, image statements |
| Services | Business banking team support, customized solutions |
| Fees | Contact branch for current fee schedule |
Commercial Checking (High Activity)
Perfect for larger commercial customers with higher transaction volumes:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Larger businesses with high account activity, multiple accounts |
| Features | Volume-based pricing, combined account relationships |
| Customization | Fees determined based on activity, transactions, and balances |
| Support | Dedicated banking professional team |
Business Banking Features:
- ACH transactions (send/receive electronic payments)
- Remote deposit capability
- Fraud prevention tools
- Image statements
- Multi-user access
- Payroll integration options
Savings & Money Market Accounts
Builtwell offers savings products for customers building emergency funds, achieving financial goals, or maintaining reserves:
Traditional Savings Account
- Interest-earning account for emergency funds
- FDIC protection
- Flexible withdrawal options
- Linked to checking for overdraft protection
- Online and mobile banking access
Money Market Account
- Higher interest potential with tiered rates
- Limited check-writing ability
- Minimum balance requirement typically applies
- FDIC protection
- Online and mobile management
Mortgage & Real Estate Loans
Builtwell provides comprehensive mortgage services for home purchase, construction, and refinancing:
Home Purchase Mortgages
- Conventional mortgages (15, 20, 30-year fixed and variable)
- FHA loans (government-backed for first-time buyers)
- VA loans (for eligible veterans and active military)
- USDA loans (for rural property purchases)
Home Equity Products
- Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs)
- Home Equity Loans (fixed-rate access to equity)
- Flexible terms matching borrower needs
Construction Loans
Refinancing Options
- Rate-and-term refinancing (new rate, possibly new term)
- Cash-out refinancing (access equity for other purposes)
- Streamline programs with simplified underwriting
Personal & Auto Loans
Auto Loans
- New and used vehicle financing
- Competitive interest rates
- Flexible terms matching borrower needs
- Online application available
Personal Loans
- Unsecured loans for various purposes
- Flexible terms and amounts
- Quick approval process
- Online application
Special-Purpose Loans
Customer Reviews & Reputation
Overall Builtwell Bank Rating
- Mobile App Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (310+ reviews on Google Play)
- Community Rating: Strong reputation across Dalton, Chattanooga, and tri-state region
- Market Position: One of Southeast’s premier regional community banks
What Customers Praise About Builtwell Bank
✅ Community Banking Approach
Customers appreciate the personal touch:
- “Treat you like more than an account number”
- “Local bankers who understand community”
- “Relationship banking at its best”
- “Care about your success, not just transactions”
✅ User-Friendly Mobile App
- “Very user friendly and intuitive”
- 4.5-star ratings reflect high customer satisfaction
- “Easy to manage accounts on-the-go”
- “Great customer support through app”
✅ Convenient Online Banking
- Online bill pay easy to use
- Zelle® integration for quick money transfers
- Mobile check deposit convenient
✅ Commercial Lending Expertise
- Strong business lending department
- Understands local business needs
- Flexible lending terms for established customers
- Commercial specialization visible in service quality
What Customers Mention for Improvement
❌ Limited Geographic Presence
- Only three states (TN, GA, AL)
- Not suitable for multi-state banking needs
- Expanding with Bank of Cleveland acquisition
❌ Feature Gaps
❌ Branch Hours
- Traditional business hours (not 24/7 banking)
- Weekend hours limited at some locations
- Holiday closures standard
Target Customer Types for Builtwell Bank
Ideal Builtwell Customers:
✅ Southeastern regional residents (TN, GA, AL)
✅ Small and medium-size business owners
✅ Customers valuing personal relationships in banking
✅ Those with commercial lending needs
✅ Conservative savers and borrowers
✅ Customers supporting community banks
Builtwell Bank vs. Regional Competitors — Comparison Table
Head-to-Head Comparison: Builtwell Bank vs. Major Competitors
| Feature | Builtwell Bank | Truist | Regions Bank | Bank of America |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Service States | TN, GA, AL (expanding to 37+ offices) | 8+ states, 2,700+ offices | 15+ states, 2,300+ offices | Nationwide, 4,600+ offices |
| Branches | 37+ (post-merger) | 2,700+ nationwide | 2,300+ nationwide | 4,600+ nationwide |
| Founded | 1904 (121 years) | 1998 (regional merger) | 1966 | 1871 |
| Specialization | Commercial lending | Multi-service regional | Multi-service regional | Multi-service national |
| Community Banking Focus | Strong | Moderate | Moderate | Limited |
| Check Writing | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Mobile App Rating | 4.5 stars | 4.0 stars | 3.8 stars | 3.5 stars |
| Checking Fees | Low (varies by account) | $0-$15/month | $0-$12/month | $0-$25/month |
| Savings APY | Variable (contact for rates) | 0.01%-0.05% typical | 0.01%-0.05% typical | 0.01%-0.05% typical |
| Zelle Integration | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Online Bill Pay | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Business Lending | Strong (specialization) | Moderate | Moderate | Strong |
| ATM Network | 37+ locations + partnerships | Nationwide 2,500+ | Nationwide 2,000+ | Nationwide 13,000+ |
| FDIC Insurance | Yes (since 1934) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
When to Choose Builtwell Bank
✅ Prefer community banking relationships over corporate efficiency
✅ Located in Tennessee, Georgia, or Alabama
✅ Need specialized commercial lending expertise
✅ Appreciate local decision-making on loans
✅ Support regional financial institutions
When to Choose Larger Banks
❌ Frequent travelers needing nationwide ATM access
❌ Multi-state customers requiring branch presence everywhere
❌ Those prioritizing maximum digital innovation
❌ Need 24/7 in-person support
❌ Want highest savings rates (though competitive overall)
Frequently Asked Questions — Builtwell Bank
Builtwell Bank headquarters
Who owns Builtwell Bank?
Builtwell Bank is owned by Builtwell Bancorp, Inc., a bank holding company. Builtwell Bancorp is the surviving entity following the March 2025 completion of its acquisition of Bradley County Financial Corp. (which held Bank of Cleveland). Builtwell Bancorp also now owns both Builtwell Bank and Bank of Cleveland until the final legal merger of Bank of Cleveland into Builtwell Bank.
Builtwell Bank checking account
Builtwell offers four personal checking account types: Beyond Checking (premium with exclusive benefits), Personal Interest Checking (interest-bearing), Heritage Checking (traditional), and Budget Checking (economical). All accounts include unlimited check writing, Builtwell CheckCard (debit card), mobile banking, fraud monitoring, eStatements, mobile check deposit, bill pay, and Zelle® person-to-person payments. Fees and minimum balances vary by account type; contact your local branch for current details.
Does Builtwell Bank have Zelle?
Yes, Builtwell Bank offers Zelle® person-to-person payments through online and mobile banking. You can quickly send, receive, and request money from family and friends using their email address, phone number, and name. Zelle transfers typically occur within minutes and are free for Builtwell customers.
What is Builtwell Bank’s routing number?
Builtwell Bank’s primary routing number is 061303348 (Chattanooga, Tennessee location). This routing number is used for ACH transfers, direct deposits, wire transfers, and check processing. A secondary routing number (061104945 for First Volunteer Bank division) exists for specific transaction types. You can find your routing number on the bottom left of your checks, through online banking, or by calling customer service at (866) 668-4700.
Are Builtwell Bank deposits FDIC insured?
What are Builtwell Bank’s branch hours?
Most Builtwell Bank branches operate Monday-Friday during standard business hours with limited Saturday hours at select locations. Specific hours vary by branch location. Visit www.builtwell.bank, use the branch locator, or call your local branch for exact hours. During holidays, branches are closed but online/mobile banking and ATMs remain available 24/7.
Does Builtwell Bank offer mortgages?
Yes, Builtwell Bank provides comprehensive mortgage services including conventional mortgages, FHA loans, VA loans, USDA loans, construction loans, refinancing options, and home equity products (HELOCs and home equity loans). Contact your local Builtwell branch or visit www.builtwell.bank for current mortgage rates and application information.
What’s the best checking account at Builtwell Bank?
The best Builtwell checking account depends on your needs: Beyond Checking for active customers wanting premium benefits, Personal Interest Checking for those wanting interest earnings, Heritage Checking for traditional banking, or Budget Checking for cost-conscious users. All include unlimited check writing, mobile banking, and fraud monitoring. Contact your local branch to determine which account best fits your banking habits.
Pros & Cons of Banking With Builtwell Bank
Pros: Reasons to Choose Builtwell Bank
✅ Strong Commercial Lending Specialization
Builtwell’s core strength is commercial lending, making it ideal for business owners seeking specialized expertise.
✅ Community Banking Relationship Approach
Personalized service with local decision-makers who understand community needs, not distant corporate underwriters.
✅ 121 Years of Stability
Established in 1904 and FDIC-insured since 1934, reflecting over a century of banking expertise and community trust.
✅ Expanding Regional Presence
March 2025 Bank of Cleveland acquisition expands footprint to 37+ offices and $2.3+ billion in assets.
✅ 4.5-Star Mobile App
Excellent digital banking with comprehensive features, security, and positive customer reviews.
✅ Full Service Suite
Personal and business checking, savings, mortgages, personal loans, auto loans, and business lending under one roof.
✅ Zelle Integration
Fast, free person-to-person payments built into online and mobile banking.
✅ Low Checking Fees
Competitive checking account fees without hidden charges.
Cons: Limitations of Builtwell Bank
❌ Limited Geographic Presence
Only Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama (though expanding to 37+ offices with Bank of Cleveland merger) — not suitable for multi-state banking.
❌ Smaller ATM Network
37 branches + partnerships, but fewer than national banks (Bank of America: 13,000+ ATMs).
❌ Savings Rates May Be Lower
Community bank rates typically trail online banks offering 4.00%+ APY on high-yield savings.
❌ Technology Still Catching Up
While 4.5-star app is strong, some features lag behind largest national banks or fintech innovators.
❌ Integration Process Underway
Bank of Cleveland merger integration during 2025-2026 may cause temporary service disruptions or changes.
❌ Weekend/Holiday Banking Limited
Traditional business hours (not 24/7) with limited Saturday access and standard holiday closures.
Final Verdict — Is Builtwell Bank a Good Bank?
Builtwell Bank represents an excellent banking choice for Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama residents and businesses who prioritize personalized community banking relationships, strong commercial lending expertise, and local decision-making over nationwide branch networks and maximum savings rates.
Key Strengths:
✅ Commercial Lending Specialization: Deep expertise in business lending
✅ 121-Year History: Established since 1904, FDIC-insured since 1934
✅ 4.5-Star Mobile App: Excellent digital banking experience
✅ Growing Regional Strength: $2.3 billion+ assets, 37+ offices post-merger
✅ Community Focus: Personal service and local decision-making
✅ Comprehensive Services: Checking, savings, mortgages, business lending, personal loans
✅ Zelle Integration: Fast, free person-to-person payments
Key Limitations:
❌ Regional Only: Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama (not nationwide)
❌ Smaller ATM Network: 37 offices vs. thousands at major banks
❌ Savings Rates: Typically lower than online banks (4.00%+ available elsewhere)
❌ Technology Evolution: Strong app but lagging some digital innovations
❌ Merger Integration: Bank of Cleveland integration during 2025-2026
❌ Limited Weekend Banking: Traditional hours, not 24/7
Who Should Bank With Builtwell Bank
✅ Tennessee, Georgia, or Alabama residents
✅ Business owners seeking commercial lending expertise
✅ Customers valuing personalized community banking relationships
✅ Those with local, regional focus (not multi-state needs)
✅ Conservative savers and borrowers supporting regional institutions
Who Should Consider Alternatives
❌ Multi-state customers needing nationwide presence
❌ Rate-focused savers seeking 4.00%+ APY (use online banks)
❌ Frequent travelers requiring extensive national ATM access
❌ Those prioritizing cutting-edge fintech features
❌ Customers needing 24/7 in-person support
2025 Recommendation
For everyday banking in Builtwell’s service region, the bank provides excellent community-focused service with strong commercial lending, solid mobile app, and competitive checking accounts.
However, supplement your Builtwell checking account with an online high-yield savings account (Ally, Marcus, Capital One 360) earning 4.00%+ APY for emergency funds and long-term savings. This hybrid approach maximizes your returns while maintaining the commercial banking relationship and personalized service that Builtwell provides.
Ready to Bank With Builtwell Bank?
Visit www.builtwell.bank to find your nearest branch (Dalton, Chattanooga, or one of 37+ locations across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama), view hours, and explore account options. Call (866) 668-4700 for customer service or to speak with a banking professional about your personal or business banking needs.
Before opening any account, ensure you’re comparing rates and services. Use this guide to understand Builtwell’s offerings and determine whether the bank’s community banking approach and service region align with your financial needs and priorities.