Don’t Pay for Debit Card, Checking Accounts, Etc.

I am absolutely amazed at how many people are willing to pay for things that should be free. Several big banks around the country have announced recently that they will start charging a monthly fee for people to use their debit cards. That’s not okay, and as consumers, we should let them know that’s not okay by taking our business to a place like a credit union, where people matter more than profit.

When banks first announced these fees, someone who gives financial advice on the Internet was actually recommending that people give up their debit cards completely and only use credit cards. That’s terrible advice. Credit unions still have free debit cards, checking accounts and other services you shouldn’t have to pay for.

Take our checking accounts for example. Some banks are charging a monthly fee for those, as well. We have some accounts that are not only free. They also give rewards, like cash and free iTunes downloads. We don’t charge a fee for our debit card, either. Use it as often as you want. It’s still free.

We also give you access to thousands of ATMs around the country that don’t charge you money to use their machines. Use more than 50,000 ATMs in places where you already are, like Target, Walgreens, gas stations, grocery stores and more. As long as they are part of our partnering networks, they won’t charge you a fee. If they do, we’ll refund it. Look on our ATM page for more information.

You’ve heard the saying that nothing in life is free. That may be true if you do business with a bank, but at Neighborhood Credit Union, we’ve got your back (and your budget).