I received an e-mail about the fees that banks charge for certain services. I agreed that the fees could be high but reminded my reader that most, if not all, banks have fee schedules that are available to customers.

When you go to your bank ask for if they have a fee schedule, take it and put it in your bill-paying folder. Also, read the inserts that come in your bank statement each month, if you do not you may miss an important update about a change in service, etc. Remember it is your money that they are talking about.

Does your bank charge a fee if your bank balance slips past the minimum account balance mark? Are you sure you know what that charge is? Do you know what your bank charges when a check is returned for insufficient funds?

Some bank fees you may not think of:

• Is your online bill pay service really free? Some banks offer deals where the first two or three months are free, with monthly charges thereafter.
  
  
• How much will it cost to get a copies of a misplaced deposit slip or check?
  
  
• Insufficient funds and returned items fees are annoying and expensive, you are often charged as much as $20 to $35 for each check returned. Do not try to guess when a check you have mailed will be received and deposited.
  
  
• Even If you do have overdraft protection, your bank may charge a fee for the transfer of funds.
  
  
• You will probably be charged if you want to cancel a check.
  
  
• Some banks charge statement balancing research fees. If you find that your checks and balances are not working and ask for a statement to help you reconcile your bankbook, do not be surprised if you are charged for this.
  
  
• Some banks have automated telephone inquiry systems. This allows the customer to get an automated answer without talking to a human. If you are fortunate enough to have this handy service make sure you do not wear out your welcome, as some banks allow a set number of calls per month. You may be charged if you pass the number of calls allowed.
  
  
• If you need to check on an account after a death in your family, in addition to having the proper paperwork you may have to pay a fee to set inquiry in motion.
  
  
• If you need a letter of reference from your bank, you may be charged for this service.
  

The next time you standing in line at your bank grab a few of the newsletters, brochures and other offerings. Do not ignore bank information that is available to you.

See our Money Section for more valuable tips.