Quick Answer: Learning how to avoid bank fees starts with understanding common charges and making small adjustments such as tracking balances and choosing the right account, so you can keep more of your money.

Most Bank Fees Are Avoidable with Small Changes

Bank fees can feel confusing, especially if you’re new to managing a checking or savings account. The good news: many common bank fees result from everyday habits that are easy to change. Understanding what bank fees are and why they happen is the first step toward keeping more of your money where it belongs.

Know the Most Common Bank Fees

Certain fees are more common than others and they can add up quickly if you’re not aware of them. Understanding how they work can help you avoid unnecessary charges.

• Overdraft fees — Charged when you spend more than what’s available in your account, often from debit card purchases or automatic payments.
• Minimum balance fees — Applied when your account balance falls below the required amount set by your financial institution.
• ATM fees — Incurred when you withdraw cash or check your balance at ATMs outside your financial institution’s network.
• Foreign transaction fees — Applied when you use your debit card for purchases or withdrawals outside the U.S., including transactions with international online merchants.

Take Simple Steps to Prevent Fees

Avoiding fees doesn’t require constant monitoring. Simple tools can do much of the work for you.

• Set up account alerts — Get notified when your balance runs low so you can avoid overdrafts.
• Keep a small balance buffer — Even $50 to $100 can help cover unexpected purchases.
• Choose the right account — Know your needs and select an account that fits your habits, such as one with no minimum balance or lower monthly fees.

Understand Your Overdraft Protection Options

Overdraft protection can help prevent declined purchases, but it’s important to understand how it works.

• Link to a savings account — A smart option that allows funds to transfer automatically and helps you avoid costly overdraft fees.
• Know your overdraft settings — Understand whether your account charges fees or offers no-fee coverage, so you can make informed decisions.

Choose the Right Checking Account

Not all checking accounts are the same. Some are designed for frequent debit card users, while others work better for people who maintain higher balances or use direct deposit and want added perks. Matching your account features to your actual habits is one of the most effective ways to avoid bank fees over time.

Take Advantage of Credit Union Benefits

Credit unions focus on members first, which often means lower or no fees and more flexible account options. This member-centered structure helps reduce costs while improving transparency and support.

Talk to Your Local Credit Union

Avoiding bank fees starts with understanding your account, using simple tools and choosing options that match your everyday habits. Need help reviewing your account and avoiding bank fees? Call one of our financial representatives at 702-228-2228 to help you explore checking options and identify ways to reduce fees, so more of your money stays working for you.