Fees are as common as vice presidents at banks. But if you know what they are and when they're charged, you may be able to avoid them.

Banks may charge fees for all kinds of things: credit reference, inactive account, or a check you deposited into your account that bounced. This chapter details all of the fees that banks may charge and tells you how you may be able to avoid them. We'll also explain how you can complain to your bank about an error and get results. And finally, we show you how to close your account at a bank without incurring that final fee.

What you can expect to learn from this chapter:

Fees, fees and more fees   This easy-to-read chart lays out all the fees you might be charged in connection with your bank account. How to avoid fees   Once you've read about the fees you might be charged, here are some tips for how to avoid them. How to complain to the bank   When you discover an error on your bank account, don't panic -- or yell. Follow these steps to get the matter resolved without hard feelings. The final fee -- closing an account   Some banks charge a fee to close an account. We give you step-by-step instructions for how to close an account without getting charged. Checking Basics: Chapter 3 quiz   Did you learn how to avoid fees from your bank? Take our quiz and find out.