In simple terms, an overdraft fee occurs when you do not have enough money in your bank account to complete a transaction or withdraw money. You will be charged a fee when your account balance is zero or negative and your bank allows this transaction/debit. 

In this article, we answer the following questions: 

• What is the overdraft service fee? 
• What are the pros and cons of overdrafts?
• What if my bank illegally charges me with an overdraft fee?
• Can I opt out of an overdraft fee? 
• Are there any ways to avoid an overdraft fee? 

What is the Overdraft Service Fee?

While the service fee varies depending on the bank, they can run upwards of $25 per transaction. This might seem like a small amount, but it can add up to a huge chunk if done repeatedly. 

According to a Bankrate survey, the average overdraft fee rose to $27.08 in 2024 from $26.61 in 2023. The survey also noted that 94 percent of American banks have an overdraft fee. 

Don’t forget to check if your bank has continuous overdraft fees. This means your bank can charge the fee till your balance turns positive. 

What Are the Pros and Cons of Overdrafts?

The biggest pro of an overdraft is it will save you from an embarrassing situation when your transaction fails or your check bounces. Additionally, it will come in handy in cases of emergency payments. 

The con is even when you ensure your bank balance is not negative, the bank will still charge an overdraft service. Secondly, there is no guarantee that your transaction will be processed in an overdrawn case.  

Lastly, if you are unaware of your bank balance, you may be charged multiple overdraft fees, leading to overspending. This behaviour might also tarnish your relationship with the bank. 

What if my bank illegally charges me with an overdraft fee?

If your bank illegally charges you an overdraft fee, first review your account terms, then contact the bank to request a refund. Document all interactions, and if the bank refuses to reverse the fee, file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). 

If necessary, consult a lawyer or file a complaint with your state attorney general’s office. Consider closing your account and switching banks if the issue isn’t resolved, and opt out of overdraft protection to prevent future fees.

Can I Opt Out of Overdraft Fee?

Yes, you can opt out of an overdraft fee. However, your bank will not allow any transaction on an ATM or debit card when your balance is insufficient. If you decide to change your mind, you can contact your bank. 

Are There Ways to Avoid Overdraft Fee? 

There are several ways to protect yourself from an overdraft fee: 

Link your accounts: 

When you have two bank accounts, link them. This way if your balance is running low on one account, your bank will take funds from the other one. Your bank may charge a transfer fee but it will be way less than an overdraft fee. 

Link your credit card:

In an overdrawn case, the bank will take money from your credit card to cover the shortage. However, your credit score might take a hit, depending on the transaction frequency and amount. 

Use the Vola App: 

The Vola app offers instant advances in just three taps—connect your bank, select your advance amount, and avoid overdraft fees without any interest or credit checks. The app will alert you when your balance is low, helping you avoid overdraft or NSF fees.

Further reading: How Vola Used Plaid to Save their Users $18 Million in Overdraft Fees