Navigating Debit Card Fees: My Unexpected Encounter with Additional Charges
In today’s world of digital transactions, one might assume that debit card payments are straightforward and uncomplicated. However, an unexpected message from a lawyer’s office recently challenged this notion for me. Each month, I dutifully pay my dues using a debit card, only to find myself facing a puzzling extra charge, humorously termed a “separate debit card fee.” It turns out, whenever I use my debit card, I’m now subjected to an extra charge—3% of my accumulated debit card fee.
Despite my flawless payment history, with no bounced transactions, this penalty suddenly popped up, leaving me scratching my head. I found myself wondering why timely payments were being met with charges typically reserved for bounced checks. As I reside in New Jersey, I’m reaching out for insights or advice on this bewildering matter.
Here’s an excerpt from the email I received:
“This is to advise you that your account has accumulated $36.00 in additional fees.
These fees accrued due to payments that have been made with a debit card that didn’t include the 3% debit card company fee added to the payment amount or for bounced check fees.
To pay these fees in full by debit card, you must add 3% to your payment. Therefore, your payment would be $37.08
To pay these fees in full by electronic check, you must add $2.00 to your payment. Therefore, your payment would be $38.00
Please pay these fees as soon as possible so that your account remains current.”
This communication revealed that without the addition of the 3% fee, my payments inadvertently racked up extra costs. It’s perplexing to think that my consistent and on-time payments are equated with bounced checks, thus attracting similar penalties.
I am left wondering how common this is in New Jersey, and what others might do in this situation. If anyone has navigated similar waters, your insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
