hey Max,
I'd still recommend opening individual THRiVE accounts as well, to make sure you both get the $100 bonus from ING.
Peter, yes you're correct. The ING account opening process, at least for sole accounts as I don't have any joint accounts, is remarkably straightforward. Even the credit bureau check is a so-called "soft" inquiry, unheardof for a chequing account. Plus, they have a decent hold policy (mine is I can deposit anything up to and including $1000 with no holds, anything over is held). I'm fine with that, same as what I have at Scotiabank, where my mom works. If you have more on deposit with ING, you can have a hold policy where anything up to and including $10,000 is not held. Plus, you can check your current hold policy online.
I've been impressed with ING and Ally both. Coming from someone working for HSBC, I consider that a compliment to them.
Cheers,
Doug
P.S. Props to Peter for his post. To Peter's new spouse, give him the $25 prize for the week!