Overdraft Protection Programs?

Several federal regulators have recently come up with “guidance” on how banks should handle the payment of debits that cause overdrafts and whether or not a fee should be levied against the account.

In August the FDIC warned banks that proper disclosure of charging a fee for an item presented a second time is important so that consumers understand that there can be more than one NSF charge on the same item. Even though banks have had the same practice for decades the FDIC is now warning banks of possible UDAAP violations.

More recently the CFPB wants banks to ensure they are not charging a fee for a debit card transaction that causes an overdraft when the item hits the books when it was previously approved at point of sale. Also, banks are warned to not charge consumers a fee for a deposited item that comes back to the account as a NSF item. It is yet to be seen what impact this will have on community banks but this “guidance” from the regulatory body covering banks with over $10B in assets should be reviewed by your bank.

Strunk’s Overdraft Privilege program is nearing its 30th year of existence and it remains a tremendous customer service for those who need it. Returning items unpaid to a merchant only creates havoc for consumers. Likewise, if a consumer wants their debit card transaction paid rather than denied at point of sale Overdraft Privilege can help out. Consumer choice is how banking should work. Providing proper disclosure and ensuring the bank follows the disclosures is key.

Contact Strunk at 800.728.3116 or at support@strunkaccess.com to learn more about how Overdraft Privilege can benefit your bank and your customers.