With new banking regulations it has become harder for banks to charge overdraft fees, which was a great source of revenue for banks. Banks can still charge overdraft fees to those customers who have opted into the bank's overdraft protection plan.
So, banks have to find ways to make up that revenue. JPMorgan Chase is experimenting with $5 ATM fees for non-customer withdrawals. PNC and TD Bank are also thinking about raising their fees as well. Those fees can be as much as, if not more than, a sandwich from Subway. However, as said, it is an experiment; we'll see if it sticks. Here are some ways to cut down and possilby avoid those ravaging fees:
Withdraw Only From Your Bank's ATM
This is real easy to do. Get a list from your bank; this will come in handy when you go out of town. Those lists are easier to come by as banks now offer free location apps. You can also download location apps from other developers.
Plan Ahead and Withdraw Two Weeks' Worth of Cash
If you like to spend a lot money, paying with cash is the best way to curtail your spending, as research shows you'll spend 20% less when paying with cash. However, you may not be comfortable carrying a lot of cash, which is totally understandable. If you do decide to use cash, withdraw an amount that will "carry" you for a couple of weeks. That way, if there is a charge is not a large percentage of your withdrawal. If you withdraw $200, if you get dinged $5, it's only 2 1/2 %, whereas if you withdraw only $20, a $5 fee is 25%!
Use A Debit Card and Get Cash Back
If you're at the grocery store, use your debit card and get some extra cash that way. It may not be a lot, but it is a way to get some liquid currency at no charge.
What are the charges your bank has been charging you lately for ATM withdrawals? Please let me hear from you in the comments below.
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