The regulations in a few words:
First of all, when opening an account, an account agreement must be signed between the bank and its client.
This agreement informs the client about the prices of products and services related to account management, commonly referred to as “bank fees”.
This information is provided through display, via freely available rate brochures in the branch, or by mail.
This information must also be posted on the bank’s website.
Only the fees mentioned in the account agreement can be legally charged. In the event of tariff changes, the bank must inform its clients by mail three months before the new rates are implemented. Clients then have a period of two months to express their disagreement in writing or request the closure of their account.
Moreover, since 2008, bank fees applicable to payment incidents are capped. For a funding shortfall of 50 € or less, the fees charged by the bank cannot exceed 30 €, and for a shortfall exceeding 50 €, the fees are capped at 50 €. Concerning the rejection of a direct debit or TIP, or the non-execution of a transfer due to insufficient funds, fees are capped at the amount of the operation with a maximum of 20 €.
Regarding the fees for blocking a bank card and direct debits, since November 2009, banks can no longer charge fees for certain blockages on a bank card or a direct debit, notably blockages for theft or fraudulent use of the bank card and blockages on direct debits. However, the bank can continue to charge fees for canceling a transfer or direct debit order before its execution, the rejection by the bank of a direct debit or transfer, or the execution error of a payment operation due to incorrect information, for example.
Finally, customer information has improved because, since January 2009, banks must send their clients an annual summary of fees related to the management of their deposit account.
This document is sent each year in January.
How to dispute bank fees?
If the bank does not comply with the regulations, it is advised to dispute the bank fees by writing a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt to the bank.
If the bank does not find it useful to respond or refuses to comply, it is possible to contact the justice conciliator.
Finally, if conciliation fails, for a conflict below 4000 euros, one should approach the local judge.
