Common bank fees to watch for
Small bank fees can quietly drain your account. Knowing what to watch for helps you keep more of your money.
Key takeaways
- Small bank fees add up fast and can strain a tight budget
- Overdraft fees can hit $25–$35 or more per transaction
- Using out-of-network ATMs can cost you double in fees
- Low-fee or no-fee accounts exist at many credit unions and online banks
Bank fees are easy to overlook. They show up as small charges — $3 here, $12 there — but they add up fast. If you're already stretching every dollar, these fees can make things even harder.
Here are the most common ones to know about.
Monthly maintenance fees. Many checking accounts charge a fee just for having the account open. This can range from a few dollars to $15 or more each month. Some banks waive this fee if you meet certain conditions, like setting up direct deposit or keeping a minimum balance. Read the fine print so you know what's required.
Overdraft fees. This happens when you spend more money than you have in your account. The bank may cover the purchase — but charge you a fee for doing so. These fees can be $25 to $35 or more per transaction. A few overdrafts in a week can seriously hurt your balance. Some banks now offer lower-cost overdraft options or small grace amounts. It's worth asking your bank what they offer.
Out-of-network ATM fees. Using an ATM that doesn't belong to your bank's network can cost you twice — once from the ATM operator and once from your own bank. That's sometimes $5 or more per withdrawal. Try to use your bank's ATMs, or look for accounts that reimburse these fees.
Returned payment fees. If you try to pay a bill and don't have enough money in your account, the payment may bounce. Your bank can charge you a returned item fee, and the company you were paying might charge one too.
Paper statement fees. Some banks charge $1 to $3 a month if they mail you a paper statement. Switching to electronic statements is usually free and easy to do through online banking.
Minimum balance fees. If your account requires you to keep a certain amount in it and you fall below that number, you may get hit with a fee. Not all accounts work this way, but it's good to check.
The best thing you can do is read your bank's fee schedule. It's usually on their website or available at a branch. You can also call and ask directly. Don't be afraid to ask questions — banks deal with this every day.
If fees are a constant problem, it may be worth looking into a bank or credit union that offers a low-fee or no-fee account. Many options exist, especially through online banks and credit unions. You deserve an account that works for you, not against you.
Related FAQs
Common questions about this topic, answered simply.
Can I get bank fees waived or refunded?
Sometimes, yes. If a fee is your first offense or a one-time mistake, many banks will waive it if you call and ask politely. There's no guarantee, but it doesn't hurt to try. Being a customer in good standing can help your case.
What is a no-fee checking account?
A no-fee checking account is one that doesn't charge a monthly maintenance fee just for keeping it open. Many online banks and credit unions offer these. Some may still charge for things like overdrafts, so read the details before you sign up.
How can I avoid overdraft fees?
The easiest way is to track your spending and know your balance before you make purchases. You can also set up low-balance alerts through your bank's app. Some banks let you opt out of overdraft coverage entirely, which means the transaction is declined instead of going through and triggering a fee.
Are credit union accounts cheaper than bank accounts?
Credit unions are member-owned and often have lower fees than traditional banks. Many offer free or low-cost checking accounts. To join, you usually need to meet certain eligibility requirements, like living in a specific area or working in a certain field.
What should I look for when comparing bank accounts?
Look at the monthly fee, overdraft policy, ATM access, and minimum balance requirements. A good account should be affordable and easy to manage. Ask for the full fee schedule before opening an account so there are no surprises later.
Why did my bank charge me twice at an ATM?
When you use an out-of-network ATM, the ATM operator often charges a fee, and your own bank may charge a separate fee on top of that. These two charges can appear as separate transactions on your statement. Using your bank's own ATMs or a surcharge-free ATM network can help you avoid this.
Keep reading
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Read Banking basicsHow to stop paying ATM fees
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Read Banking basicsHow to find the best free checking account
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Read Banking basicsHow to stop paying overdraft and bank fees for good
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