I must bank with a different HSBC than you guys. I've had nothing but pleasant experiences with them from day one. It did take me about a week to receive my online sign-in information and about another week to receive my debit card, but their customer service was extremely helpful to me during this process. I've written checks, paid bills electronically, utilized my debit card, made deposits, etc, and have had no trouble at all. I switched over from Wachovia (Wells Fargo) and am not a bit sorry that I did.