5 Ways to Avoid Bank Fees

When you first sign up for a bank account, it may seem like the fees that go along with it aren’t big enough to matter. But pretty soon, the ATM fees, minimum balance fees and every other kind of fees that banks can think of make for a huge drain on your account. While you probably can’t avoid all banking fees — after all, banks are in business to make some money — you can avoid certain fees with a few simple steps.

1. Keep a minimum balance: Depending on the type of checking account you have, your bank may expect you to keep a minimum balance. If you slip below that  balance — even for a minute — you’ll get hit with a fee. There are banks that offer free checking accounts but don’t require a minimum balance. You can make the switch to such a bank, but it’s still worth your while to keep a minimum balance in your account at all times. It will keep you from accidentally overdrafting — and facing much larger fees than slipping below a minimum balance.
2. Limit ATM withdrawals: If you aren’t actually going to your own bank to make withdrawals, you’re probably getting hit with ATM fees every time. Just limiting your trips to the ATM to once a week — or even once a month — can keep fees to a minimum. An alternative is making a point to only use ATMs affiliated with your bank.
3. Ask your bank to waive fees: If something happens and you get hit with an unexpected fee, like for an overdraft, ask your bank to waive it. Many banks are willing to consider waiving at least some fees for good customers.
4. Open each envelope your bank sends you: Once you’ve opened an account, your bank is obligated to inform you by mail of any changes to your account. That includes setting new fees. Your bank also has an obligation to let you change accounts if it changes the terms of your current accounts, with no penalty. Changing accounts can include moving your account to another bank. If you do make the decision to move banks, let your current financial institution know why — if your bank wants to keep you as a customer, it may offer to waive certain fees.
5. Monitor your account: If you don’t know what fees you’re regularly incurring, how will you know how to avoid them? Make a point to go over your statement each month, as well as regularly looking over your account online. It’s up to you to catch any incorrect fees charged to your account — banks won’t look for problems in an individual account unless you tell them it’s there.

Even if you’re content with the fees your current bank is charging you, don’t forget to take a look around at the other banks in your area on a regular basis. There are always deals to be found for bank accounts — and which bank has the best deal can vary from month to month.