How to Avoid Every Common Bank Fee

Learn the specific steps to dodge overdraft, ATM, monthly maintenance, and other bank fees that cost Americans billions yearly.

  1. Switch to a checking account with no monthly maintenance fee. Look for accounts that waive monthly fees permanently, not just for 6-12 months. Many online banks and credit unions offer these with no strings attached. If you prefer a brick-and-mortar bank, find one that waives fees with a low minimum balance you can easily maintain.
  2. Set up overdraft protection or decline overdraft coverage entirely. Link your checking account to a savings account so overdrafts pull from savings instead of triggering fees. Alternatively, opt out of overdraft coverage completely — your card will simply be declined if you don't have enough money, but you won't pay fees. Call your bank or log into online banking to make this change.
  3. Use only in-network ATMs or get fee reimbursements. Stick to your bank's ATM network to avoid both your bank's out-of-network fees and the ATM owner's surcharge fees. If you need broader access, look for accounts that reimburse ATM fees up to a monthly limit. Plan cash withdrawals to avoid multiple small transactions.
  4. Maintain minimum balances and meet direct deposit requirements. If your account has minimum balance requirements to waive fees, keep a buffer above that amount to account for automatic payments and daily fluctuations. Set up direct deposit if it's required for fee waivers — even a small recurring transfer from another account often qualifies.
  5. Avoid wire transfer and cashier's check fees with alternatives. Use free ACH transfers instead of wire transfers when speed isn't critical — they take 1-3 business days but cost nothing. For large payments, consider money orders from the post office or grocery stores instead of cashier's checks. Use peer-to-peer payment apps for smaller amounts.
  6. Track your account activity and dispute fees immediately. Check your account weekly to catch fees before they compound. When you do get charged a fee, call the bank the same day to request a waiver — first-time fee reversals are often approved automatically. Keep a record of legitimate complaints for future reference.