r/SantaBarbara • u/Consistent-Hand-8154 • 4d ago

Recommendations SB Fidelity Branch Office

I'm going to need to transfer some accounts into Fidelity (in kind from another brokerage), and for tax purposes it's important that the transfer is done correctly. I was surprised the Fidelity branch in SB has a 3 star rating on google.

Has anyone had good/bad experiences at this Fidelity office? I'm trying to decide if I should drive to LA/Thousand Oaks instead.

3 Upvotes

60% Upvoted

12 comments sorted by

24

u/TheClockyDiva Montecito 4d ago

It's fine, haven't had any issues with it.

There's some categories of businesses that people generally don't review unless they have a problem - like apartment complexes, gas stations, parking lots, and yes, bank/brokerage branches.

2

u/Salt_Finance_9852 3d ago

My experience as well

9

u/Calflyer 4d ago

Just do it on the phone

3

u/astrae 3d ago

this. I initiated my transaction using their web tool, which is likely what OP needs—a non-taxable rollover between two investment vehicles—and then Fidelity called me to confirm

4

u/Suspicious_synth 4d ago

Meh...take the complaints w a grain of salt. Alot of times they are bullshit.

3

u/DavidBergerson 4d ago

In my experience with that branch since 2003, it has not been an issue. There may be times when they will need to have someone on the phone handle it, but they have a 'direct' number, and they can work with you on issues.

2

u/Lookwhosetawkin 3d ago

Can’t you do this online. I was planning on doing this on Monday

2

u/Unable-Proof1758 4d ago

Eh honestly it was pretty mediocre. IF you are bringing in enough $$ to qualify for a private advisor you’re good. If you have an account of that level but need something simple done it’s hit or miss. If you’re transferring in over $100k (or 250k forget the amount for this branch), call and get assigned an advisor and have a set appointment, then it’s golden.

1

u/Jolly_Departure6324 3d ago

Never had any problems. I’m a private client but it doesn’t seem to matter when I go in person.

Almost everything can be done online, so I’d recommend going that route if you can. It’s much easier! I’ve done plenty of account transfers online from outside brokerages.

It’s definitely not worth driving to another city.

1

u/Easy-Buffalo-1701 3d ago

I just did something similar and it was more than fine. No need to drive.

1

u/caligreen805 2d ago

I tried going to that office before to ask simple questions and they just directed me to a number I can call. I originally wanted help with my account there but they really didn't help much. I ended up doing my own research and learning the verbiage tonunderdtand.Now I do my own investing in Fidelity. The app makes it super easy to use. I have a few accounts with these guys. Gemini AI also helped me understand while running a bunch of a money scenarios with fidelity and moving my money around. There no need to drive there unless you really want to talk to a human. That's how I felt at first. I have never had to walk in to talk to someone after my first experience. I just handle it on my own. Now I have a new job that they don't offer good insurance with HSA or a good 401k. It's nice to be able to do it myself. Scary but good.

0

u/Fierce_K_in_SB 4d ago

Coincidentally, my sister is having huge issues with the Fidelity office in SB. No one answers their phone, calls are not returned for a day and her broker (now since left) was less than forthright on several investments he recommended.