Thursday, May 19, 2016

Overdraft Tutorial

I was listening to this banker on the radio a few days ago and she said that the overdraft option should be opted out of asap. Of course they (banks) opt you in. It's an income generator for them. The main problem is that if your card gets stolen or account is compromised, you are paying the over draft fee ($30+) for every transaction the thieves make. You may not be aware for weeks unless you constantly check your account. If you opt out, then if you (or they) hit zero balance your card is just rejected. No fees. You can't overdraw plus you are on notice of a problem if the level is below what you thought it was. I would also add from personal experience that you should keep most of your money out of the ATM card account. Just put enough in it to cover your cash needs and get a "real" credit card (Citi Double Cash Back 2% is the best) for charges. That way thieves can't drain your savings. I believe that all online accounts have an opt out link. And remember - if they (any counter party) suggest it - you reject it. They aren't your friends. They are another animal that wants to eat you.

No comments: