by Lisa Rogers-Cherry

Make sure that free checking at your bank is really FREE. Although many banks offer free checking, some banks tack on all kinds of fees and costs when you look closely at your statement. Carefully review your monthly bank statement and make sure that you are NOT paying a fee for: not maintaining a minimum balance; overdraft fees; ATM fees; or fees for paying your bills online.  If you can’t get your bank to waive these fees, then switching banks might be your best option.

Lisa Rogers-Cherry is the author of Lifting the Burdens of Debt:  A Helpful Guide to Getting Your Debts Paid and Your Life Back on Track (2005; $14.95). Lisa writes monthly financial tips for www.bloggingblackmiami.com and writes articles for various newpapers and magazines.  If you have a question or for more information go to www.redpenpress.com, e-mail her at [email protected], or write Lisa Rogers-Cherry, Red Pen Press, P. O. Box 1196, Dania Beach, FL 33004.