Avoid overdraft fees

In response to the article “Fed asserts protective role on banning fees on overdrafts” (Nov. 14). I agree with critics that this is a step in the right direction in protecting consumers from being forced to enroll into overdraft protection services. Yet, I feel that this does not go far enough toward offering consumers different options, such as a line of credit for overdrafts.

After reading the article and finding out how much income is generated for banks from overdraft charges, I understand why banks do not offer consumers competing services. Having experienced overdraft fees on a per-charge basis, which is an expensive and frustrating experience, I will be happy to have the option to have my debit-card charges rejected for insufficient funds.

Until this rule takes effect on July 1, I would recommend that people, to help them avoid overspending while using their debit cards, enroll in their bank’s online banking service. This is usually a free service offered by most banks, which allows users to see how much they have in available funds.

This is a helpful service that has helped me to know how much I can spend before I overdraw my account.

Jason W. Baker

Cheney