Quinn continues, "The bankers -- always innocent, in their own minds, of squeezing customers -- blame the fee increases on the pro-consumer legislation passed last year.”  Bankers say that they are passing on additional compliance costs to their customers, Bryant wrote.  She recommended low-cost accounts at credit unions in the article.

 

"It might surprise you to learn that everyone is eligible for at least one credit union," Bryant wrote.  "These institutions serve particular member groups.  In general, they charge lower fees on credit cards, auto loans, and checking accounts, and pay higher interest rates on savings -- not the top rate, but above average.  They're also more customer-friendly than most banks.  You can find someone to talk to about your finances and even appeal a decision.

 

"To find a local credit union, enter your zip code, church, company, school, or city at FindACreditUnion.com, to see what you might be eligible for," she added.