The cost to overdraw a bank account could drop to as little as $3 under a proposal announced by the White House, the latest effort by the Biden administration to combat fees it says pose an unnecessary burden on American consumers, particularly those living paycheck to paycheck.

The change could potentially eliminate billions of dollars in fee revenue for the nation’s biggest banks, which were gearing up for a battle even before Wednesday’s announcement. Exactly how much revenue depends on which version of the new regulation is adopted.

Banks charge a customer an overdraft fee if their bank account balance falls below zero. Overdraft started as a courtesy offered to some customers when paper checks used to take days to clear, but proliferated thanks to the growing popularity of debit cards.

  • stringere@reddthat.com
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    11 months ago

    How I left Bank of America:

    My previous paycheck had $350 in overdraft fees that came out of my current check. Because I had automatic deposit for my paychecks they allowed for borrowing against your next paycheck.

    I borrowed $500 to cover the $350 in fees they stole from me plus a $150 service as compensation for my pain and suffering, withdrew all my money, cancelled automatic deposit, and walked away.

    I’m sure they sent it to collections, but looking back on it 20 years later: still worth any damage to my credit rating.