I went to Krungsri when all I had was the Visa-exempt stamp in my passport, they hesitated until I said I needed an account to qualify for the retirement Visa. As soon as I said 'for retirement Visa' they were happy and opened the account.
My bank (Krungsri) seems legit, but they tell me that my wife would have to get an attorney to get the money out. They don't allow you to name a beneficiary up front.
I'm also from US, entered on visa exempt last March and converted to 90 day non-o in September and then got retirement 1 year extension in December. No agent needed. All the info you need is in the archived posts here.
It's great right now! Unless you're after the bar/go-go scene. Bobby's right about reduction in tourist traps. No bus loads of Chinese tourists, way fewer drunken farangs and 0 backpackers. Services (massage, car and driver, motorbike rental etc) are cheaper. No lines. We went to Koh Samui 2 months ago. The resort (Bandara) has just enough staff to provide good service, but few guests, so it was very private and cheap rates. No nightlife, but everything else we wanted was there. Bangkok is good, good room rates, but quiet. Stores are open. Train service to provinces is available, but on a reduced schedule. C'mon over - wear your mask - tip the help.
That problem is not unique to Thais. I look at all the foreigners who don't wear a mask, or pull it below their nose, and I understand why some Thais don't want us here.
Got mine at US Embassy in Bangkok. Instructions are on their website. He also needs divorce certificates from prior marriages when you go to register the marriage.
