How to Call a Bank to Get a Fee Waived

Makes you mad, am I right? If you’ve been charged a fee by your bank that you think is unfair or unjustified (or you just need a favor), you may be able to get it waived by calling the bank and speaking to a customer service representative. Here are some tips for making the most of your call:

• Gather all relevant information: Before you call, make sure you have all the necessary information on hand, including your account number, the date of the fee, and any relevant details about the transaction or circumstances that led to the fee. At least keep it open in another browser tab or take some screenshots. Or, print it out if you have to.
• Be polite and friendly: Remember that the customer service representative you speak with is just doing their job, and getting angry or upset is unlikely to help your case. Instead, try to be polite and friendly, and explain your situation calmly and clearly. If you messed up and just need a courtesy waiver, you can say you didn’t realize that there would be a fee, and ask if you can get it waived as a courtesy. I’ve overheard people doing this successfully.
• Be prepared to make your case: You’ll need to explain to the representative why you think the fee is unfair or unjustified (if that’s the case). Get ready to provide specific details and examples to support your argument.
• Consider any alternatives: If the representative is unwilling or unable to waive the fee, they may offer you other options, such as a credit on your account or a reduced fee. Be open to exploring these options, as they may still help you save money.
• Don’t be afraid to escalate the issue: If you feel like the bank is being unfair and you’re not getting anywhere with the representative, don’t be afraid to ask to speak with a supervisor or someone higher up in the bank. Just be sure to remain calm and respectful throughout the process. Be diplomatic.
• Follow up in writing: After your call, it’s a good idea to follow up in writing to confirm the details of your conversation and any agreements that were made. This will provide a record of your communication and can be helpful if there are any issues or misunderstandings later on. You can use email or the bank’s messaging system (email is better because you control the records).

By following these tips, you may be able to get a bank fee waived and save yourself some money. Just remember to be polite and persistent, and don’t be afraid to escalate the issue if necessary.