East Bay Real Estate: Time to Switch Banks? More Fees Coming in 2012
Monday, January 9th, 2012Consumer Reports recently investigated upcoming banking fees, and found that consumers who say they’re furious at behemoth banks for their lending practices, fees, account requirements and various other reasons, can get ready to vent some more.
Among the findings of the consumer organization’s investigation:
The investigation showed that fee hikes and tougher account requirements will probably continue, especially while the economy remains weak.
While customers with a lot of accounts at one bank might avoid some fees, they’re not immune. Banks may try a spectrum of charges even for good customers, including fees for paper statements and higher safe-deposit costs.
Consumers are more likely to find lower fees and better rates at community banks, larger credit unions, and online institutions. According to research, banks are trying to make up billions in lost revenue due to the bad economy, new regulations, and in some cases perhaps even their own inefficiencies.
Should you switch banks?
Now that you know that fees may fire up, you may be wondering if you should switch banks. If your bank plans to stick you with new fees or tougher account requirements, your first thought might be to find a new one. According to Consumer Reports, that might be your best option, but switching banks can be a hassle. So it’s important to weigh your options before making a decision to move. The following tips can help you decide:
• Check the terms. If you’re facing a single new fee, see what it would take to avoid it. Increasing your account balance by a few hundred dollars or signing up for direct deposit might work.
• Change your habits. For example, plan a weekly visit to an ATM in your bank’s network to withdraw cash instead of going out of network. And check your statements more carefully so you don’t rack up overdraft fees.
• Try to negotiate. You might be able to get a fee waived if you tell your bank you’re thinking about moving your accounts.
• Consider convenience. Banking is about much more than rates and fees. It’s also about the day-to-day banking experience. Does the bank have adequate ATM locations and local branches with convenient hours, or give you privileges to use out-of-network ATMs?
• Do your homework. Check with competing banks and credit unions, starting with their websites. That’s where you’ll find complete information about rates, fees, terms, and conditions.
• Plan your getaway. If you’ve decided that moving your money is the best solution, make the process as smooth as possible. Check to see whether your new bank offers a “switch kit” to help you streamline the process
• Make your move. Open up the account in your new bank or credit union with a small deposit. Then you can transfer funds from your old bank to the new institution electronically. Arrange to switch over your automatic payments and deposits to the new account.
• The grand finale. Leave at least a small amount of cash in your old account and close it once you’re sure all checks and transfers have cleared.
Source: http://www.ConsumerReports.org
Provided by San Ramon Homes For Sale
