BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT)- Look inside any purse or wallet and you're sure to find a tam card.
Many banks are trying out new methods to recoup costs after dropping monthly debit card fees like penalties for not maintaining a minimum balance and even for not using your debit card enough.
Consumer experts with angle’s list say it's more important than ever to pay attention to statements.
“It’s important to be reviewing your bank statements or any literature you're receiving from your bank so that you can see notification ahead of time and change your habits or change your bank," says Angie Hicks, creator of Angie’s List.
Financial Planner Susan Elser say talk about the fees up front.
“You want to first discuss with whatever institution you are looking at switching to, what you are going to do to avoid fees there and some credit unions and online banks may have either lower fees or reduced required minimum balances.”
But traditional fees are still the ones that really pack a punch.
"I see overdraft charges as a problem for all income brackets for not maintaining enough cash in their bank account so boosting your cash reserves may also help you avoid these fees which I see among the steepest that banks charge," says Elser.
Else says the very best thing to do is shop around.
