Wells Fargo Bank outrageous overdraft fee ripoff San Francisco California

will be submitted at this website soon.

Just type in 271454 at this site to see if it is available in the consumer comments section at Ripoff Report #271454.

Thank You

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You posted a picture of yourself on the internet and then called someone a bunch of names. Real smart.

I also couldn't help but notice that you're the only person at this little protest session.

was submitted at this website on November 30, 2011.

Just type in 271454 at this site to see if it is available in the consumer comments section at Ripoff Report #271454.

Thank You

***MORTGAGE ALERT: Don't forget to type in 481508 at this site and read St. Clair's Ripoff Report for valuable information if you have a mortgage in the USA.

I've had a credit union, Bank Of America, and Wells Fargo. I no longer bank with Bank Of America because the reps aren't that courtesy and they don't take care of problems that well. Wells Fargo on the  other hand handled La fitness quiet well compared to Bank of America so I'm A happy customer. Especially for all those people out there who are still getting screwed by la fitness and getting no where with their banks. I think its Lisa's fault because she should be more responsible with keeping track of her own spending whether its her Atm card or checking, because you know how much money you have in your account and if you don't write down what you spend as you spend it there may come a time when you will use more then what you thought and it will cause over Drafts same with Chase and Bank of America. I would never count on my bank statement online or my receipts I get from the Atm machine, because sometimes money is on on hold and it takes time to update therefore, its a good idea to keep track of your own spending's so you know currently what you have in your account. The reps are very courtesy on the phone and I bet Lisa was speaking rudely too the rep for the rep to be rude. Lisa needs to get over it and take the blame. She should know having a bank account you should keep track of your spending's or things like this will happen. I'd never depend on a website or my atm receipt for a current balance. I will use the Bank Statement to see if something that isn't mine has occurred on it, because of fraud going around now a days. If she gets the media contacted she would make herself look ridiculous on TV.  

Cindy, California:)

the banks issued, and how the banks are making HUGE PROFITS from FEES!

Oh my goodness people.  Not always is it the customer who wrote a bad check, mis-managed their money or balanced their checkbook improperly.

The FACT is that Wells Fargo takes advantage of the "overdraft" situation!!

I have first hand experience on that.  I know Wells Fargo deliberately chooses which items they will honor or return!  I have made the mistake in balancing my checkbook wrong and writing processing a bad electronic check.  (I don't like writing checks anymore or buying them) I was short $50.00 once.  Wells Fargo RETURNED that check.  They also charged me the $35.00 fee.  I DIDN'T complain.

But this time, I'm very angry with how they are treating an overdraft on my account.

I had an electronic check in the amount of $866.82 from Toyota Financial hit my over the weekend.  I had set up an electronic check to cover two payments, I ment to set it up for the 23rd of October when I got paid.  Somehow, it processed early on the 9th.

Now I figured, I'm going to get an NSF fee for this and they were going to return the check because I was short $357.00 to cover this, last time when I was short $50.00 they returned it.

But, they DIDN'T!!  And because they didn't, all the other 9 transactions I made (not knowing about this check to Toyota) even one in the amount of $2.51 were rearranged to hit AFTER the Toyota check so that Wells Fargo could make an extra $350.00 in fees off of me.  Even a transfer & withdrawal were made before the check, but rearranged to hit AFTER the Toyota bill.

Now, you so called Wells Fargo employees could tell me Wells Fargo DOES NOT DO THAT, but then explain to me why they would return an electronic check where I was short only $50.00 but honor a check short where I was short OVER $350.00???

I think any sain and smart human being would imediately say....."They did that to make money!"

BINGO!

I've done some research.  Apparantly, Wells Fargo has some lawsuits against them and are also well-known and documented doing this type of crap to other consumers.

This message I've written is for consumers only!  I don't care what you Wells Fargo employees have to say, so save your breath and don't reply.

Thank you!

P.S.  Lisa in Corona, CA.........YOU GO GIRL!

Lisa you are honestly full of it. You have nothing better to do then come on this website and bash wells fargo..Listen its really simple to bank, you dont need to be a rocket scientist to do this. All you need to do is when you make a deposit you add that to your balance and when you make debits and withdrawals you deduct that from your available balance. Its that simple. So what you can do is visit your local branch or call customer service and have them send you a check book register, its really easy to use. I bet you anything your the type of customer who's overdrawn 90% of the month and you call in to customer service to have to have your overdraft fee's waived, then the rep tells you that they cant and the call gets escalated to a supervisor who tells you the same thing. Then finally the call gets escalated to the executive office and you just complain to the rep. From there you wait a few hours and you decide to call back to have the fee's waived once again the banker says they cant then you decide to threaten to sue the bank if they can't waive the fees'. Finally at this point the banker takes a look at how many times you've called, they read the notes in the account that state that you keep on calling to get fees waive. The banker does one of two things:

Been There.  Done that.  Had 350.00 taken out this month.  I have a hefty savings but it was not linked to my checking.  No matter what I said, they wouldn't reimburse any $$$.  This is not the first time it has happened either.  That  WF customer service you called - I used to work there.  What a joke.  You would not believe what the agent is saying on "mute" at the other end of the line while you are so upset pleading your case.  My suggestion, take your money elsewhere.  They will never change.  They've been this way since I've been a customer over 2 decades.  They are not worth the energy expended dealing with them.

'THE TALMUD AND THE GHETTOES' to see WHO controls the banking system in America, in Europe, & in other parts of the WORLD. You can click on- 'Page 94' to read Dr. Mandelstamm's quote in its entirety before you read that passage, if you'd like. It's best to read that passage 3 or 4 times, very slowly. If you click on- 'Page 97' you can read how they control governments too, according to what was stated on 'Page 97', right?

or read the article about how Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase, & Wells Fargo will make it possible for their customers to "turn-off" the ability for their DEBIT CARD to make purchases & withdrawals if the money isn't really in their checking account.

i have to say that i agree with the teller, i am also a wells fargo emplyee...i don't work in the branch, i'm the guy that you speak with over the phone and tells you "unfortunately unless it was due to bank error i would not be able to reimburse any of those fees"

which is usually followed by the same tired old b.s. "how come you paid that check if there were no funds availiable, or "how come you let me use my debit card when i didn't have any money" or any variation of the two. sometimes you guys get creative and try to give us a hardluck story, about you being in the hospital, an accident, or someone died...it always cracks me up when i see someones account telling me so and so died, and that's why their overdrafted, when for the past 12 months they've been overdrafted like clockwork 4 days after they get there check in...and for the guy that mentioned stupid poor people and how it's so easy to make money off of the...he made reference to "that neon sign that says pay day loans" wells fargo is now in on that too.

can you blame them though, like he said if your stupid enough to od ur account. over and over and over then you deserve it. i've never od'd my account and if i did i wouldn't ask for any sort of pity. it's you same stupid people that call in and say so and so stole my money i signed up for a free trial, or i gave my account number out because they said they would put money in my account.

i mean really!? only the stupidest of the stupidest od their account, and like the other guy said, if you don't qualify for a reimbur. it's because you od ur account on a regular basis, and why should we give you any of your money back next week it's going to be the same your just going to call us again, and i'm going to say no. all day, every day is all i hear. i have no sympathy for you people, as soon as you guys call in we can tell if we can reimburse your fees, but i like to let you go through your stories so as soon as you can finish i can tell u in my monotone voice, "sorry i wouldn't be able to reimburse that" then i like to recommend a credit card for overdraft protection.

even though i know that you won't qualify for it, i mean you can't even manage a simple checking account, how in the world would you be able to manage credit, and for the guy gloating about getting 11 out of 20 fees reimbursed, what an idiot. that's still 315 dollars in fees, no wonder they pay us so good and we get so many bonuses. it's like shooting fish in a barrel. and for the girl confused about banks all of a sudden becoming so "capitalistic"....i would be willing to bet my entire pay check that you go to community college

i love my job

Hello everyone, I use to work at one of the call centers for Wells Fargo in Southern California. Since then I left my position and now I work in another department within the company. I can agree with some of you that yes they do charge excessive fees for accounts that are overdrawn but then again keep in mind everything is stated in your disclosures once you open the account. It is your responsibility to read it. I would run into this every single day when I would go to work and I hated it because it was like a broken record, I would repeat the same thing over and over again. 

After reading one complaint after another here in regard to bank rip offs, I don't doubt that many who posted here have legitimate complaints against their banks, so that isn't my complaint here.

The rude teller complained about on here needs to get a right attitude. However, some on here with complaints against her also need to get a right attitude for slamming tellers as "nobodys"! How arrogant, calloused & immature are you people who degrade someone as being worthless simply because the job they do isn't prestigious & high paying! I'll bet if a teller got paid $500,000/year you shallow minded bashers would bow at the teller's feet! Such condescending people as you need to find some wisdom & think before you speak, as your hurtful words pierce right thru my heart BECAUSE MY OWN DEAR MOTHER worked hard & honestly as a bank teller for several years in order to help my Dad provide a comfortable life for my siblings & me. HOW DARE you people call my mother a "nobody"!!!!!!!! I know from my mother's experience as a teller that they carry a tremendous load of responsibility in handling many people's money, which requires intense focus & concentration, among other heavy responsibilities, which you teller bashers couldn't tolerate for 2 days! Banks call their tellers "the face of the bank", yet they underpay them! It's tellers who build & retain & grow the bank's customers, & they can break it, too! Don't bash a teller if you expect to have one at your service when you visit your bank!

US Bank, Wells, BofA, Chase, etc... are all the same. What happened to this person at Wells would clearly have happened at US Bank. If you don't believe me, check out the complaints on US Bank within ROR. Same complaints, same bad habits by consumers.

The lawsuit against Wells for failure to sufficiently disclose was settled in 2007; I was a Wells customer at the time and had no OD fees, but received a notice I might be entitled to about $70 if I could prove that I was a member of the class. For those wanting to sue, the disclosure problem has been fixed - the fees have been determined as legal and the methodology for posting to accounts also found to be legal.... Keeping an accurate balance in your check register would be a more beneficial solution....

Switch your account over to UsBank. I've been with them for 8 years now, very easy to deal with and have great customer service. I had them call me once that my debit card had been used in Canada at a gas station 30 mins ago. They shutdown the card and issued a new one right away.

They acquired several banks here in Corona recently. Good time to switch. From what I remember if you try to use your debit card and don't have the funds, you get denied.

Wells Fargo knows they can gouge their customers and get away with it. Wells Fargo brainwashes their employees without them even knowing it. Wells Fargo employees are the equivalent to the tax collectors for the king. They don't care about anyone but themselves. They would slit the throat of kittens if they were asked to. The sad part is that they don't know that they have been turned into heartless zombies and have been convinced that they are going to be successful business people in the near future, when in reality, they amount to nothing. Wells Fargo employees are having their souls stolen, which is much worse than money.

Ok, yeah, I've had some overdraft fees from Wells Fargo also, so I may have embellished a bit out of anger. I had $420 in fees one time, but they reversed half of them. My son was using my ATM/visa card and lost track of his spending. There where 12 $5 to $10 dollar purchases, each with a $35 OD fee. It really is highway robbery and Wells Fargo should be prosecuted to the fullest.

Lisa. If there is a class action against Wells Fargo, let me know. I want to be on that train. They need to be stopped!

First off, it is unacceptable for current employees of the Bank to be completely disrespectable to previous or current customers. You are the voice of the Bank and your complete lack of respect is inexcusable. I only hope that your true identity is uncovered and you terminated from the bank.

I have been with the Bank for two years and am proud to be an employee. I would like to provide a little information I might have.

During the time Lisa's account was charged the overdraft fees (2003 I presume) the current account disclosure stated:
----------------------------------
Overdrafts and Insufficient Funds
We may take the following actions if we receive an Item drawn against your account and there are insufficient available funds in your account to cover the Item:
Cover the Item according to the terms of any written overdraft plan that you and the bank established.
Pay the Item and create an overdraft to your account. Any negative balance on your account is immediately due and payable, unless we agree otherwise in writing. We may place a hold on balances in any other account you have with us until the overdraft is paid, or we may setoff the amount of the overdraft against any of your other accounts according to the terms of this Agreement.

We are not obligated to notify you before we decide to either pay an Item that creates an overdraft or to return an Item drawn against insufficient available funds. We will assess a fee that will vary depending on the action we take.

Debiting Your Account; Order of Posting
Your account may be debited on the day an Item is presented by any means, including, without limitation, electronically, or at an earlier time based on notification we receive that an Item drawn on your account will be presented for payment or collection. We may debit your account on the day an Item is presented by delivery by any means, including electronically. We may pay Items presented against your account in any order we choose, unless a particular order is either legally required or prohibited. In particular, we may choose to pay Items in the order of highest dollar amount to lowest dollar amount (unless such a practice is specifically prohibited by an applicable state or federal law, rule or regulation). We may change the order of posting Items to your account anytime without notice to you.
--------------------------------------
The Bank is within its rights to charge you overdraft fees, and change the order in which it posts items. The consumer account agreement is provided to you when you first open an account, and always available at any Wells Fargo Banking location. I know most people do not read this type of material, because it is long and full of confusing information to some, but it is provided so consumers can better understand what the Bank is allowed to do.

Unfortunately, I do see many customers using their Check Card improperly. Instead of balancing their account to see if they can make another purchase, they just keep using the card until it is declined. As many people may know by now (since it has been 5 years from the start of this post) banks only place a hold on the funds that is used as a Check Card purchase. When the item is about to be paid to Visa or MasterCard, the hold is removed temporarily so the customers available funds is not affected by the debit and a hold. When this happens, it is possible for you to make another transaction even though you do not have the funds to cover the item. This is in no way of the banks fault if the item is allowed to be charged to the account. Additionally, your account responsibilities include making sure that you have enough available funds on deposit in your account or sufficient overdraft protection coverage available to pay a item when presented.
Just remember that having a Check Card is a privilege. Not all customers are able to receive Check Card because of their previous banking history.

To Lisa and all other Wells Fargo customers that have read this posting, I would like to personally apologize for the negative remarks that other Wells Fargo employees have made. They do not represent the majority of employees that value our customers. We truly appreciate your business and loyalty.

Lisa, I hope that your future/current banking relationships are more successful, even if it is with another bank.

First off, it is unacceptable for current employees of the Bank to be completely disrespectable to previous or current customers. You are the voice of the Bank and your complete lack of respect is inexcusable. I only hope that your true identity is uncovered and you terminated from the bank.

I have been with the Bank for two years and am proud to be an employee. I would like to provide a little information I might have.

During the time Lisa's account was charged the overdraft fees (2003 I presume) the current account disclosure stated:
----------------------------------
Overdrafts and Insufficient Funds
We may take the following actions if we receive an Item drawn against your account and there are insufficient available funds in your account to cover the Item:
Cover the Item according to the terms of any written overdraft plan that you and the bank established.
Pay the Item and create an overdraft to your account. Any negative balance on your account is immediately due and payable, unless we agree otherwise in writing. We may place a hold on balances in any other account you have with us until the overdraft is paid, or we may setoff the amount of the overdraft against any of your other accounts according to the terms of this Agreement.

We are not obligated to notify you before we decide to either pay an Item that creates an overdraft or to return an Item drawn against insufficient available funds. We will assess a fee that will vary depending on the action we take.

Debiting Your Account; Order of Posting
Your account may be debited on the day an Item is presented by any means, including, without limitation, electronically, or at an earlier time based on notification we receive that an Item drawn on your account will be presented for payment or collection. We may debit your account on the day an Item is presented by delivery by any means, including electronically. We may pay Items presented against your account in any order we choose, unless a particular order is either legally required or prohibited. In particular, we may choose to pay Items in the order of highest dollar amount to lowest dollar amount (unless such a practice is specifically prohibited by an applicable state or federal law, rule or regulation). We may change the order of posting Items to your account anytime without notice to you.
--------------------------------------
The Bank is within its rights to charge you overdraft fees, and change the order in which it posts items. The consumer account agreement is provided to you when you first open an account, and always available at any Wells Fargo Banking location. I know most people do not read this type of material, because it is long and full of confusing information to some, but it is provided so consumers can better understand what the Bank is allowed to do.

Unfortunately, I do see many customers using their Check Card improperly. Instead of balancing their account to see if they can make another purchase, they just keep using the card until it is declined. As many people may know by now (since it has been 5 years from the start of this post) banks only place a hold on the funds that is used as a Check Card purchase. When the item is about to be paid to Visa or MasterCard, the hold is removed temporarily so the customers available funds is not affected by the debit and a hold. When this happens, it is possible for you to make another transaction even though you do not have the funds to cover the item. This is in no way of the banks fault if the item is allowed to be charged to the account. Additionally, your account responsibilities include making sure that you have enough available funds on deposit in your account or sufficient overdraft protection coverage available to pay a item when presented.
Just remember that having a Check Card is a privilege. Not all customers are able to receive Check Card because of their previous banking history.

To Lisa and all other Wells Fargo customers that have read this posting, I would like to personally apologize for the negative remarks that other Wells Fargo employees have made. They do not represent the majority of employees that value our customers. We truly appreciate your business and loyalty.

Lisa, I hope that your future/current banking relationships are more successful, even if it is with another bank.

First off, it is unacceptable for current employees of the Bank to be completely disrespectable to previous or current customers. You are the voice of the Bank and your complete lack of respect is inexcusable. I only hope that your true identity is uncovered and you terminated from the bank.

I have been with the Bank for two years and am proud to be an employee. I would like to provide a little information I might have.

During the time Lisa's account was charged the overdraft fees (2003 I presume) the current account disclosure stated:
----------------------------------
Overdrafts and Insufficient Funds
We may take the following actions if we receive an Item drawn against your account and there are insufficient available funds in your account to cover the Item:
Cover the Item according to the terms of any written overdraft plan that you and the bank established.
Pay the Item and create an overdraft to your account. Any negative balance on your account is immediately due and payable, unless we agree otherwise in writing. We may place a hold on balances in any other account you have with us until the overdraft is paid, or we may setoff the amount of the overdraft against any of your other accounts according to the terms of this Agreement.

We are not obligated to notify you before we decide to either pay an Item that creates an overdraft or to return an Item drawn against insufficient available funds. We will assess a fee that will vary depending on the action we take.

Debiting Your Account; Order of Posting
Your account may be debited on the day an Item is presented by any means, including, without limitation, electronically, or at an earlier time based on notification we receive that an Item drawn on your account will be presented for payment or collection. We may debit your account on the day an Item is presented by delivery by any means, including electronically. We may pay Items presented against your account in any order we choose, unless a particular order is either legally required or prohibited. In particular, we may choose to pay Items in the order of highest dollar amount to lowest dollar amount (unless such a practice is specifically prohibited by an applicable state or federal law, rule or regulation). We may change the order of posting Items to your account anytime without notice to you.
--------------------------------------
The Bank is within its rights to charge you overdraft fees, and change the order in which it posts items. The consumer account agreement is provided to you when you first open an account, and always available at any Wells Fargo Banking location. I know most people do not read this type of material, because it is long and full of confusing information to some, but it is provided so consumers can better understand what the Bank is allowed to do.

Unfortunately, I do see many customers using their Check Card improperly. Instead of balancing their account to see if they can make another purchase, they just keep using the card until it is declined. As many people may know by now (since it has been 5 years from the start of this post) banks only place a hold on the funds that is used as a Check Card purchase. When the item is about to be paid to Visa or MasterCard, the hold is removed temporarily so the customers available funds is not affected by the debit and a hold. When this happens, it is possible for you to make another transaction even though you do not have the funds to cover the item. This is in no way of the banks fault if the item is allowed to be charged to the account. Additionally, your account responsibilities include making sure that you have enough available funds on deposit in your account or sufficient overdraft protection coverage available to pay a item when presented.
Just remember that having a Check Card is a privilege. Not all customers are able to receive Check Card because of their previous banking history.

To Lisa and all other Wells Fargo customers that have read this posting, I would like to personally apologize for the negative remarks that other Wells Fargo employees have made. They do not represent the majority of employees that value our customers. We truly appreciate your business and loyalty.

Lisa, I hope that your future/current banking relationships are more successful, even if it is with another bank.

First off, it is unacceptable for current employees of the Bank to be completely disrespectable to previous or current customers. You are the voice of the Bank and your complete lack of respect is inexcusable. I only hope that your true identity is uncovered and you terminated from the bank.

I have been with the Bank for two years and am proud to be an employee. I would like to provide a little information I might have.

During the time Lisa's account was charged the overdraft fees (2003 I presume) the current account disclosure stated:
----------------------------------
Overdrafts and Insufficient Funds
We may take the following actions if we receive an Item drawn against your account and there are insufficient available funds in your account to cover the Item:
Cover the Item according to the terms of any written overdraft plan that you and the bank established.
Pay the Item and create an overdraft to your account. Any negative balance on your account is immediately due and payable, unless we agree otherwise in writing. We may place a hold on balances in any other account you have with us until the overdraft is paid, or we may setoff the amount of the overdraft against any of your other accounts according to the terms of this Agreement.

We are not obligated to notify you before we decide to either pay an Item that creates an overdraft or to return an Item drawn against insufficient available funds. We will assess a fee that will vary depending on the action we take.

Debiting Your Account; Order of Posting
Your account may be debited on the day an Item is presented by any means, including, without limitation, electronically, or at an earlier time based on notification we receive that an Item drawn on your account will be presented for payment or collection. We may debit your account on the day an Item is presented by delivery by any means, including electronically. We may pay Items presented against your account in any order we choose, unless a particular order is either legally required or prohibited. In particular, we may choose to pay Items in the order of highest dollar amount to lowest dollar amount (unless such a practice is specifically prohibited by an applicable state or federal law, rule or regulation). We may change the order of posting Items to your account anytime without notice to you.
--------------------------------------
The Bank is within its rights to charge you overdraft fees, and change the order in which it posts items. The consumer account agreement is provided to you when you first open an account, and always available at any Wells Fargo Banking location. I know most people do not read this type of material, because it is long and full of confusing information to some, but it is provided so consumers can better understand what the Bank is allowed to do.

Unfortunately, I do see many customers using their Check Card improperly. Instead of balancing their account to see if they can make another purchase, they just keep using the card until it is declined. As many people may know by now (since it has been 5 years from the start of this post) banks only place a hold on the funds that is used as a Check Card purchase. When the item is about to be paid to Visa or MasterCard, the hold is removed temporarily so the customers available funds is not affected by the debit and a hold. When this happens, it is possible for you to make another transaction even though you do not have the funds to cover the item. This is in no way of the banks fault if the item is allowed to be charged to the account. Additionally, your account responsibilities include making sure that you have enough available funds on deposit in your account or sufficient overdraft protection coverage available to pay a item when presented.
Just remember that having a Check Card is a privilege. Not all customers are able to receive Check Card because of their previous banking history.

To Lisa and all other Wells Fargo customers that have read this posting, I would like to personally apologize for the negative remarks that other Wells Fargo employees have made. They do not represent the majority of employees that value our customers. We truly appreciate your business and loyalty.

Lisa, I hope that your future/current banking relationships are more successful, even if it is with another bank.

I am sick of all the people that cant keep track of their accounts. Plain and simple, if you dont have money in your account do make purchases! Keep your own check register and that way you wont have to pay the 100% avoidable overdraft fees! Just as you and the company you work for are "non-profit" organiztion so are banks, they have every right to charge you these fees in fact they give you account disclosures when you open up the account explaining that. If you choose to overdraft the account you choose to get the overdraft fees its as simple as that! Its time people take RESPONSIBILITY for their own actions!

I am sorry to hear your story but these kinds of situations can be avoided. I'm sorry to break it to you but this kind of thing happens in all financial institutions not just Wells Fargo. Any bank that you have a debit card with will allow you to continuously make transactions on your account even if their is insufficient funds. And i did see you mention that the balance on your online banking was not up to date. I dont know if it just recently changed but now it does tell you your avaiable balance...which is the money that you can actually use, and your current balance...which is the balance you have from any pending transactions. These pending transactions can be check deposits made same day, check deposits made after 4pm, or certain debit card transactions. It is the banks way of lending you money that you dont have at a certain rate, which is the 30 dollar fee. At wells fargo they do offer a service called overdraft protection. It is a simple thing to set up, just to speak to any banker. How it works is it is linked to a savings account or credit card or both. Whenever you overdraft you are only charged one 10 dollar fee for all transactions that dont have funds as apposed to the 30 for each individual transaction. This is a free service and should deffinately be taken advantage of. So unforunately this was a hard way to learn all of this but you will now know for future references. And if you ever have any questions or concerns just go into a branch near you, the bankers are more than help you out. And they have the knowledge to help this from ever happening again.

I am sorry to hear your story but these kinds of situations can be avoided. I'm sorry to break it to you but this kind of thing happens in all financial institutions not just Wells Fargo. Any bank that you have a debit card with will allow you to continuously make transactions on your account even if their is insufficient funds. And i did see you mention that the balance on your online banking was not up to date. I dont know if it just recently changed but now it does tell you your avaiable balance...which is the money that you can actually use, and your current balance...which is the balance you have from any pending transactions. These pending transactions can be check deposits made same day, check deposits made after 4pm, or certain debit card transactions. It is the banks way of lending you money that you dont have at a certain rate, which is the 30 dollar fee. At wells fargo they do offer a service called overdraft protection. It is a simple thing to set up, just to speak to any banker. How it works is it is linked to a savings account or credit card or both. Whenever you overdraft you are only charged one 10 dollar fee for all transactions that dont have funds as apposed to the 30 for each individual transaction. This is a free service and should deffinately be taken advantage of. So unforunately this was a hard way to learn all of this but you will now know for future references. And if you ever have any questions or concerns just go into a branch near you, the bankers are more than help you out. And they have the knowledge to help this from ever happening again.

I have been a long-time customer of Wells Fargo, starting with Norwest bank.

Around 8 years ago or so I had some irresponsible using of my debit card that quickly translated to a ton of fees. I sure did think those fees were high but I realized also that I was the one that spent money I didn't have. My lesson was learned and I haven't had a problem since.

Also, about the charges immediately showing online... the charges always post first as "pending"...sometimes the very next morning it fully goes through or other times it disappears until the merchant I used my debit card at turns in whatever they turn in to then get it finally posted. But even with it disappearing, I still know I spent the money and it will eventually get taken out of the account so I make sure to note those transactions so i don't go over.

Another time, this was a life-saver for me. One evening for some reason I just decided to log-in to my Wells Fargo account even though I didn't have any transactions pending... to my huge surprise there were two $300 pending transactions. I called right away and at the time they too could not see any information about where the charges came from and I would have to wait. At 4am the following morning although it was still saying "pending" it showed a name of the company the charges came from. I looked it up online and it was the card processing company for a ton of online gambling sites. Someone got my card number and was trying to credit their gambling account with my card. I called the overseas number and the woman helped me and canceled the charges.

If Wells Fargo immediately was able to fully post and withdraw the money for the transactions I would have had to go through a longer process of filling out a fraud form to try and get the money back and all but because of the fact the items were still "pending" I had time to get it taken care of before it went through.

I did not notice this was from 2004. NOTHING back then was what it is now. Especially computers back in 2004. I had the same problem with Bank of America. I did accept responsibility though because it was my fault. I'm a Lead Teller as well and I will back up Jenny 100%.

So Lisa, please just STFU and keep owning yourself every chance you get.

Wow, you really have no life. READ THE Consumer Account Fee and Information Schedule!!

It tells you EVERYTHING in there. Your account is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY!

PIN entered transactions do post RIGHT AWAY.

Credit transactions might take a few days to post. MOST of the time they do post right away. It all depends on the merchant. NOT WELLS FARGO! It is your responsibility to KNOW what you purchased and MANAGER your OWN money.

Wells Fargo spends a lot of money on technology. It is probably one of the most sophisticated technology banks in the state. Envelope-free ATM's, mobile banking, text banking, online banking.. etc.

Either you are lying or the girl you spoke to is a moron. The system is capable of keeping up with millions of costumers. Paper receipts are a thing of the past. The store you purchased something from keeps the paper receipt with your signature for proof just in case you decide to dispute the charges. But just about any big chain takes your signature electronically.

My suggestion. Write down all your transactions. Or if you are like me, keep a count in your head!

Just one question - If you were going online to see your transactions right after you made your purchases and you noticed the debits being listed on there, then why in the world did you keep spending money? Did you not see the balance getting closer to reaching zero?

Maybe I missed something....

That is all.

I'm a student who also does business with Wells Fargo and I've had good and bad experiences-- And when I say good and bad, I mean that to the extremes. I too am no stranger to the overdraft club, and for a while, (and still sometimes now, but for reasons I'll explain alter) I did feel very cheated. Now, coming from a family that never explained banking (and didn't use check or credit cards... I grew up with my grandparents) I had similar misconceptions, but after reading, and researching, have learned a little more that should keep me OUT of overdraft in the future, but that would not be possible had I not come to some realizations, some of which did come from reading responses to this article, and will most definitely put into practice. On the other end, however, my wait time for checks to be cleared has greatly increased-- very possibly possibly linked to my performance as a customer-- and oftentimes it seems to be in cases where I DO need to rely on the money-- But again, that is another story entirely, and not necessarily something I blame on the bank.

As for the tellers. Oh, the tellers. I've met tellers I absolutely love. I'd buy coffee for 'em. I'd buy lunch for 'em. I'd buy dinner for 'em, and not try to get into their pants-- Then there are tellers I don't like. Tellers who believe that they are above the people who come to them with issues in their account. Yes. Many of the issues may be the consumers fault, but as an employee, it is the teller's job, just like a grocery store clerks, or a cashier's to deal with the problem politely. Bad tellers-- Not fees-- Are the only reason to date I've considered leaving Wells Fargo. I do make a point of being very polite with any employee, of any company. Why? I've been an employee of a company. I know how it is to go through the training, and then deal with customers, both good and bad to make endsmeat. Some tellers, however, despite politeness, calmness, and a general desire to simply understand where exactly an issue lies have been almost like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. THESE are the reasons I would leave any bank. On the flip side, I've met tellers who couldn't have been more patient or helpful in the same situation. For those of you who look down on, get angry at, or think lowly of someone simply because they have overdraft fees-- Get over yourself. You get payed to deal with it, so deal with it gracefully, and when you're off work, head to the bar and b***h about it all night.

To those tellers in here that have actually given GOOD advice-- Thank you, so much for being able to take so much in stride. You definitely deserve raises.

if you have a balance of let's say...$2000.00 in your bank account.

assuming you are using a check register & a working calculator, you will see this example below:

date trans. code description amount balance
7/01 check 101 check #101 -45.54 1954.46
7/02 ATM w/drawl -240.00 1714.46
7/03 check 102 check #102 -315.00 1399.46
7/05 AUTO DEP. payroll direct deposit +600.00 1999.46


this is an example of how to properly conduct a check register...if you write your transactions in your register instead of worrying about how the banks computer order process is and you still end up with a positive balance when the smoke clears, then it won't matter what order they post in.

balancing your register = no OD fees.

"No business wants to employ someone as unsympathetic (key word, pathetic) as yourself."

Not being able to handle your money very well, I would have thought you would have gotten many many calls from bill collectors. That's the business that employs unsympathetic people. They have to because it's people like you who overspend they're accounts and want to blame everyone but themselves because they're lives are just that pathetic.

"3. I have not written any 'bad checks'. All my problems are with Wells Fargo's deceptive 'online balance' (their so-called state of the art technology) and using your check card. I have since changed to a credit union and Washington Mutual Bank (without changing the way I do my banking) and have had NO PROBLEMS with either.
Gee, could that be because they are not deceptive???"

Have you even bothered to look up all the complaints on this site about WaMu? There's just as many for them as there is for WF. You spent money you didn't have and if you kept a register of your finances you would have seen that. I do not work for a bank and never have but I do know how to keep track of my money. You're a spoiled idiot and you need to get better educated.

The above is true. Do you ever wonder how you can pay for dinner on a card and add a tip on the receipt? Or get gas approved when you haven't even pumped and seen the full dollar amount yet? As an ex-employee, and although not a fan, I do see the reality of what happens in our new "electronic world", I can tell you that merchants can run a card for any dollar amount they want, and change the amount later when they batch their machines. When the debit posts to your account a couple of days later, you better had kept your register up to date or you've just been had.


Restaraunts change the amount before it is batched to reflect your tip, and gas stations only authorize your card for $1 and then let you get gas....days later, the real amount is posted to your account. In the meantime, had you checked your account online or anywhere else, you would only be given the information that the bank had at the time of authorization. That ypur gas cost $1. This is not your actual balance. This is your responsibility to keep track of and WFB has no idea of what you have outstanding or how much it cost to fill up your gas tank yesterday when you used your card until the merchant sends it to be posted. Do not use these tools to give you current balance information. Only look to see what actually posted and keep track of anything pending.

I was a customer service manager for 5 years here in Reno Nevada and I had a lot of fee revesal authority which I used liberally. I saw a lot of seniors on fixed incomes and single mothers who had nothing. My thoughts were "it's not my money so why and I going to fight with customers to hold onto it". With that being said, if you were to ever become demanding or expectant of me, you got nothing. FYI, be nice and courteous to whoever you talk to. Keep in mind, they have just been yelled at by about 20 people before you and you will get a lot more done for you if you can be personable and not act as though you "pay there paychecks" as some on on here put it.

Oh, and by the way Lorri, I was at a branch in Reno and believe me, no offense but no one cares who you are, you are just another number and if you left, some unhappy B of A customer would come and fill your place.

My next point to make is with everyone thinking that an ATM or debit card should stop working if there is no money. Does this happen? YES! Does it always happen? NO! Do not depend on this. If ever there is a system problem and the computers were to go offline, (ever call and get "your account information is currently not available" or get online and see the same thing?) The thing is, if WFB system is having problems or the card service company that your merchant is using is experiencing difficulities, your account may not be able to be read at the time of purchase. WFB has million upon millions of customers, most of which they never hear from due to the fact that they always keep track of accounts and are able to successfully manage their finances.

Rather than stop all transactions completely when system problems occur and upset the millions who DO have money and are trying to conduct business, WFB will let card transactions go through. This is usually to the benefit of most but for those who do not keep a managed check register, it can be to your demise. Don't swipe swipe swipe and expect wfb to let you know when to stop. Keep in mind that they have system problems like everybody else and it could be offline at your time of purchase. Make sure the money is there.

Also, those of you who are moving to credit unions, you do pay for your banking there in terms of convenience. Not being able to find a branch or ATM nearby wherever you are could be disasterous at times. You may not be able to make it across town to make a deposit by the cut-off time to cover a check you wrote or most of these CU's only have regular bankers hours. Not many Saturdays and not many late evenings. Big corporate banking can be expensive if you're not careful but I can find a branch within a couple of minutes usually and they are also open late evenings and Sat and Sun in the grocery store Branches. Convenience is a blessing sometimes.

With the posting order. It is simple; I used to tell people that the reason things get posted large to small is this; There would be a lot of upset people when WFB would pay 6 items in overdraft yet bounce their rent check. Many people felt that this check was the most important and that especially being because it has a direct impact on your credit whereas your little Target and Walmart checks do not. So, they made a change. If you have $1000 and you have $1600 in checks process, they will pay your $900 rent check, bounce the rest and charge you fees. The landlord doesn't evict you for having your third bounced check and Target and Walmart are happy to take an additional fee from you and call it a day.

I have since left the banking industry and gone into business for myself. I was sick of sitting around making other people rich. I am neither pro or anti bank but just Read your policies and take the time to investigate and talk to someone about how things post and what the cut-off times are. I was always amazed that people take more time to investigate a car or a new cell phone they are buying than they do with their bank accounts. THIS IS OUR MONEY PEOPLE!! Learn it-accept it- and live by it- If you don't know it ASK! I don't care who you bank with. They are all the same with just a few differences in policy.... Hope this helps.

I have over 10 years teller experience in various banks. Unfortunatly tellers do get an attitude when confronted by a client with OD fees. Why? Because we are confronted multiple times daily by rude clients who want to yell at us because they refuse to take responsibility for their own accounts and finances.

Yes accidents do happen and majority of the time, banks will allow a one time courtesy refund because they understand accidents do happen. I see it all the time. It's the repeat offenders that don't get the refunds. You'd think after the first time, people would want to learn how to use a check register. Most of the people who I've seen that are repeat offenders, I've asked them if they're keeping a register and this is the response I"ve gotten. "What's a register?" A register not only benefits you from overdrafting, but also if the bank makes a mistake, such as encoding a check for the wrong amount. If you're not tracking the amounts, if the bank does make a mistake, how will you ever know? Don't blame the banks, blame yourself for being an ignorant consumer.

If you would take the time to read the disclosures given at the account opening and ask questions about anything you may not understand, the bank would be alot more understanding towards you. We'd rather have you ask questions or ask us how to keep a register rather than yell at us when you OD your account.

Did you know if you ask for a Fill at a gas station. Or if you use your debit card at a restaurant or even to pay for a hotel room...The company can charge more for what is posted. It is a hold to confirm that you have enough money in your account.

It may take up to 3 to 7 days for the Over charge to be re-credited to your account.
Or what the banks called "Over holds" if you have an SUV paying $100 in gas using your Debit card, they may take out another $100 for "insurance"

Use your Debit card to pay the hotel, they may even charge a $300 deposit. "Debit cards are like cash, not credit card. So the company may charge the cash deposit price.

Example: Borgata Hotel and Spa, Atlantic City, NJ. "Credit Cards are OK" But Debit cards require a $300 deposit as same with cash". Have a credit card and their hotel deposit drops to $100.

Sometimes we do not see this in the ledger or even on the receipt that we get. It takes around 2 days to confirm everything and then double check.

Then there is the reverse of this.

Example: WAWA gas station. Ask for a fill up and they only take $1.00 out to confirm this. But will take around 4 days for the account to be posted.

Just Remember "pending" is not Posted. It gives a bank a few days to confirm everything is on the up and up.

With ID thieves on the rise it will be more common for banks to hold money from checking, even if you are allowed to get the money. Once you give a bank a bad check, you have to pay it bank.

That is why there is a "Hold" or "pending" on accounts. To make sure you do not get ripped off.

Scam artists love to give you a fake check and you have to pay the bank plus the bank fees for NSF and you all ready gave the money to the scam artists. The Banks will think you are the scam artists stealing their money.


Here are few hints:
1)keep a ledger up to date and balance a least once a week."PENDING" and "POSTED" are two different meanings. Watch for them on your account online.

2)check to see if someone else is taking money from your account
(Joint accounts sometimes have two ATM cards)

3)Link a checking to a savings or a credit card to protect yourself from Overdrafts.

4)Make sure no one has any id that matches yours, ID theft is on the rise, they can link your accounts to their accounts and clean you out.

5) have any canceled checks Or copy of checks that can still read the routing and account numbers. (Use a cross cut shredder). too much info is on a check today.

6)Do not place payments in a curb mailbox and raise your flag. ID thieves love it to "wash" your check and take your money. Go the Post office and send the check that way or go online (only if you trust your computer).

I am an employee of Wells Fargo and I have some information that can help you. When you use your debit card at a store... that store memo-posts your account. Usually the memo-post is for the correct and full amount, however some stores will just memo-post a dollar or two. Then let's say you go to another store and spend more money but it justs memo-posts another dollar or two. When the full amount hits your account you now are overdrawn. HOWEVER, you can save yourself. If you check your bank account everyday and see that it's overdrawn but no fees have been assessed then you should run to the bank or the ATM and deposit money. Wells Fargo processes your credits to your account before your debits on the same business day. My point here is that you need to keep an eye on your own account. It is rarely the bank's fault that you overdrafted your account, and believe me when it is the bank takes very good care of the situation.

Ok...first of all I've dealt with every major bank except for Wells Fargo... I have refused from all the feedback I get from the most honest and fair bankers who dealt with them personally and business wise... I will never ever open an account with them... its a b***h to even try to cash a check with them...

just recently I got a business check from my former employer written out to my business... I own the corporation that the check was made payable too... first of all they would not cash my check even with proof such as a debit card from my business bank with my name as an authorized user... I also had my articles of inc. with me and etc... they said the only thing they would do was take the check made out to my business and re-issue me another check payable to my business... now how stupid is that???

What the hell is the point of submitting a check just to get another check that I wont be able to cash at thier branch that is a check issued by Wells Fargo??? Its like me given decaf coffee and try to exchange for regular coffee but tells me we will give you another decaf coffee...take it some other place...good luck with it.... WTF!!!

Given the run around and cold shoulder... I was so freakin fed up since my business bank would not cash it only deposit it they turned around and put some stamp certifying that I am authorized to cash it...called my credit union that I just opened a few weeks prior to that... they said no problem...bring the check in and hand it in person to the teller and we could deposit or cash it for you.... DEPOSIT/CASH into my PERSONAL checking account!!!!

Yes thats right a business check made out to my business directly deposited to my checking account! Regular banks are all the same for a charge going over $1 you get charged about $34 for each transaction if its overdrawn.... I'm dealing with that right now with a check that was bounced by BOFA a client wrote a check... his account was illegally tampered and the funds that were suppose to be available to pay a check made out to my business was cleared after 4 days then on the 5th day returned...

all the transactions were charged to the point my account was charged about $200 in overdraft fees... what the hell is overdraft protection if you are paying for the fees plus charges were reversed back anyways...well whatever... the banks excuse was well your account has been open with us in good standing for more than a year so we have no reason to hold the funds...

OK thats bullsh*t $700 was deposited... after being deposited with a check they made about $200 available... on the 4th day the rest of the funds were available then on the next day wich was the 5th day everything was returned and with ridiculous overdraft fees!!! this is not the 1st time it happened... only 2nd... the first time I paid about $60 for something the teller could have prevented I asked them what needs to be deposited in my account to prevent any type of overdraft because i accidently used my personal debit card instead of my business card the two card designs looked the same...

I was told a certain amount... I rushed over to the atm and deposited the funds that was told to me to put in there... next few days later I was still overdrafted... if anything the stupid teller needs to know how to calculate... not the dayum consumer... thats what we pay teller fees and bank with bank paying maintainence fees to depend on them to service our accounts and finances right???

Well I guess its like when you go to the branch and you specifically ask to have something deposited to your personal account and the dork who isnt paying attention deposits it straight into your personal... thank god I have a habit of checking my account on automated telephone banking I realized the idiot deposited it in the wrong account... so now i figured if i didnt catch that a bill would have not been paid then i get charged back these fees...

you want to hear something even worse... I deposit a check thru the atm machine using my personal atm card and a check to go into my personal account. They notice the check was made out to my business so they take my check without my authorization and deposit it to my business account...WTF... no control over your own transactions!

I got a call from the teller from the branch telling me we have your check we are going to deposit it in the business... I called them a few mins later raised hell and the teller says its too late... she told me I didnt call soon enough...it was just a few mins... I spoke to the manager and I told him you are making unauthorized transactions with my account and assuming a check is going to an account I specifically didnt want for it to go...

I said common sense tells you HOLD The dayum check... verify from me personally that or even at least give me dayum permission to let you deposit it elsewhere...they said it was too late... FCCCKKKK... that pissed me off because I needed the funds in there to pay for something that needs to get automatically charged to that checking account...

My advise to people out there... the banks are not stupid... thats how they make thier money to outsmart the consumer the same way when you walk in the bank they ask you to open a saving account...knowing that they use your money in the savings and put it in thier own IRA or mutual funds they make like 12-20% off your personal or business money while you collect if your lucky .60% interest...

if they are looking out for your best interest why dont they ask you to open an account that gives you a better return??? Hmmmm I guess thats how they keep them selves from filing BK... rip the consumer off! We rather make quick money even if it means losing good customers then establishing long term relationships and excellent customer service...

I don't think I trust a person who barely makes $10-$12 an hour to handle lump somes of business money... I would go to some more established bank or use a credit union if I could if they opened corporate accounts... unfortunately they are limited... I try to send my bills off with money orders or cashiers checks just because I know using the check books or checkcards are so inaccurate!

What is the point of balancing a checkbook when all you are used to doing is using a checkcard... unless the checkcard has an electronic device that pops out of the debit card to help you balance your accounts then it would make sense to depend on it but you cant and if it werent for printing out and saving receipts from atm and teller receipts banks such as BofA would have jacked me for thousands of dollars...

I would get responses ...cashing a cashiers check for about over $10,000... oh we don't have enough money in the bank to cash your check... then I raise hell they cash my check... A check that is from thier bank... One day I had my sister deposit $4,000 cash to the teller in my Bofa and they try to hold my funds (CASH) for 15 days.... so I had BofA in NV call BofA in CA override that stupid hold they decide they wanted to put...it wasn't even a policy....

I had the account open for a long time... I deposited money with the teller... about $6,000 then I checked in my online banking and printed out as well that the money was deposited and available... a few hours later... the transaction was missing like it never happened... I walked in the branch and showed them a print out and my teller receipt...

they said it must have been a glitch... UM SURE IT HAS... I wouldn't be surprised if a teller found a way to steal my money and make the transaction disappear... this was extreme Bullshit... Take it from me... get a breifcase with a lock... or cash box and stick your money in there...keep it in your house... pay your bills with real credit cards not debit cards and send your credit card company a money order or cashiers check before the month is over before they charge you interest to pay them bills!!! Because of the way these banking institutions run thier tricks... you could put your credibility and credit on the line...

Tellers are defending thier banks they work for... honestly if you have to try that hard to defend the bank you work for... all this effort you put into it... they should be decent enough to give you a raise!!! Money is as dirty as the banks are... Time for you tellers to clean your dirty hands!!! My chiropractor also complained about wells fargo...left him cold and could not access funds while in Canada...

You are better off bringing some good old dirty cash when traveling...

No matter what Bank you are with, you get a check register when you order their checks. Gee, I wonder what that means?

It means, use it. They are trying to help you save money, however, they are not going to do the math for you. When you write a check or use your debit card, you have to write in your transactions. If you don't, then you will incur the overdraft fees.

Also, if you don't do that and you end up taking your complaints to the branch or 800 #, this will be your answer: Keep in mind, I'm not a bank employee...

"Sorry Mam/Sir, we are merely a financial institution that will process the transactions that we receive towards your account." In other words, "we missed the part where it's our problem". To quote another poster, banks are in the business of making a profit. It must do that to keep on running. So if you make a mistake, of course they will allow the transaction. Again, what if you are out of town and needed money. Would you be happy with no access to your accounts?

Think people....think!

As for Lisa's comments about Tellers only needing a 3rd grade education. That's wrong. I have a cousin that works at a Bank as a Supervisor (used to be a teller). She's got a college education. So there..

They can say what they want, but this is a national scam to make money off of
debit card users. I quit using mine. CASH for almost everything. I get reciepts..
they juggle the balance back and forth after you use your card. up and down to confuse you to how much you actually have. I should not have to keep a checkbook record if it is right in front of me online. the transaction happened, deduct it and do not remove it and then put it back. they say they need verification that it happened. maybe so, this does not validate removing the transaction after it posted. and then putting it back again. my account went from a balance of 23.00 to a negative 8.00 to 83.00 and then back to -9.00.
I give up on banks. A trustworthy one does not exist. I will use cash until it no
longer exists...

First, I'd like to say to Jenny that you wouldn't dare treat me the way you explained in your little comment. There is no way that you would do that to me, because I do not back down, and you would have one hell of a problem. You should be ashamed of yourself! And why are you so proud of being a teller? You should go to college and then find a job to be proud of. I was a teller while I was in college, and it's not a job to brag about. You barely make above minimum wage-ya, you should be proud! And to all the jerks with the arrogant comments, maybe you should join the working class instead of living of mommy and daddy. If you join the real world, you will find that life is hard, and things just happen that are beyond your control. The children who are writing these heartless, childish comments should be ashamed of themselves. I truely believe in karma, and all these aweful things you've wrote will come back to you.

Unfortunately for Lisa, she knows how hard life can be. I hope that you can get things straight and definately change banks!!!! And to the fortunately people who haven't had any problems with Wells Fargo, count your blessings because you just got lucky. I hope you experience the same issues that all of us have, so that you know how it feels.

With a Wells Fargo free checking account, the bank provides many services free of charge to the consumer. For instance the following services are provided to you free of charge with no monthly fee: a debit card, production of and postage on your monthly statements, check processing, online banking, etc.

For each basic checking account the bank opens, the bank actually loses money because on average, these accounts don't have balances that are high enough to offset the cost to the bank of operating them.

There are two reasonable explanations as to why the bank offers free accounts at all. The first is the belief that a customer with a free basic checking account may one day become successful financially and maintain much larger deposits with the bank. Customers who get to this point with the same bank are generally very loyal, and it is very difficult for competitors to take their business away. It can be difficult for corporations to justify taking a loss for the possibility of future profit, which lends credibility to my second reason offered below.

The other reason I can have my bank account free of charge even though I keep very little money there is because the bank charges overdraft fees to other people. So for each person that cannot manage their money or simply makes a mistake, they are in effect subsidizing my free account. If not for overdraft fees being charged to some customers, I would have to pay a fee every month for the currently free services offered to me know.

So my point is that having the possibility of being charged overdraft fees is much better (especially for those who don't overdraw) than charging everyone a flat fee. If this was a one time mistake, consider it a lesson learned. If this is something that continues to happen, you might be better only using your account for ATM deposits and withdrawals, or possibly not having an account (or debit card) at all.

I dealt with Wells Fargo a long time ago, and I manage my finances to an exact science, but was quite disappointed with the Bank.

Guess What?

I changed Banks and found an Institution that saved alot of headaches.

The unfortunate issue is so many "Adults" insulting left and right. I don't agree with what Jenny the teller said- thought her remarks were uncalled for and insidious.

It is expected that some will attack her(they stoop to her level), but to say she is a no body is mind blowing.

I am appalled that you "Lorrie" would post an ugly, hateful remark. If you want people to listen or take you seriously, stop with the child like antics.

You have now dropped several notches to her level and I was beside myself in disbelief on what you had to say.

Sure, she lacked any type of civility towards Lisa, but you lacked just the same towards Jenny. Why would you put her job down?

The answer I have is that if you have to go back and forth with people and the only way you can get your point of view across is to "try" and demean others, you are the one with the issue and real problem.

Shame on you, wake up, GROW UP!
Everyone is certainly entitled to their opinion, but can you all leave the juvenile behavior out of it. What does this say to our future generation? Tone it down.

You're a teller...a no body...a nothing! When I have a problem with WFB, I deal with people like CEO, d**k Kovacevich. Not with tellers! You should be ashamed for yourself. Take that tail of yours; stick it between "your" legs and FIND ANOTHER JOB!

WFB is not EVIL as was suggested - it's just another bank. If you want the privilege of working with a bank that has so many branches, you pay for that service with higher then normal fees. A small CU is good, but you will have problems with them too, unless you start taking responsibility for your own situation.

Learn from this and move on....from someone who's been there!

Lorrie - Reno, Nevada
U.S.A.

I think situation shows a bigger problem and that is the excessives overdraft fees charged by the banking industry. For example, a $30 OD charge on a $2 overdraft. (I've seen it many times.) That's a 1500% penalty on the overdraft. That's akin to loan shark rates.

I think this is something the government needs to step in and examine. Sure, the bank will say they would charge the same overdraft to $10,000 that they would $10...but the percentage of penalty is nowhere near the same and most consumers would never hit the big numbers. I mean...$30 on a $300 overdraft is 10% of the charge. The bank doesn't even pay that kind of interest on investments.

There needs to be governmental action against banks to limit the fees to a percentage of the overdraft charge. This woman may not be right in being angry about being overcharged but I think she's pointing out the bigger issue of abuse of customers in the level of penalties.

I have read through quite a few posts on this site about WF, from what I have read they are not going to lift a finger to help anyone out, so let them sit and spin on it. If you get severely in the negative because of them, just open another bank account and pay wells fargo off when you can. I had a previous incident last summer when my brother had told me he deposited $200 into my account, of which I had debits which would have taken up most of the amount, but he didn't infact make the deposit I found out later, and my account then s****.> As of right now, I am seriously thinking of telling wells fargo to go shove it, again. Is there not some sort of law that regulates how much overdrafts can be charged??

The only way to bank at wells fargo is to keep rock solid track of every transaction that you make.

One thing that I dispize about WF is the way they do their accounting online, they show nothing but the current balance and what has or has not came in. They show nothing that tells you how each transaction effects your balance. I do not like how a check shows up in their system at 5 am the next day but shows as it posted on the previous day, that is just plain screwed up if you ask me. For example I just had a go around with them because I had a check for just slightly over my available balance post at 5am this morning, but a deposit which would have more than covered it and then some posted at 8 am this morning. This check got inserted before 6 other transactions, subsequently giving me 5 items that posted in the negative, for a check that actually posted today, but shows as hitting the account yesterday before any further transactions posted. This is plain and simple their creative method of making the customer look bad. They manipulate the way the transactions come in to maximize their profits on overdrafts, so it makes them look good on the books but sucks you dry if you ever make an error or a deposit clears a couple hours late. Basically what I am saying, they want you to get overdrawn, so they can charge you, and make you look bad for doing it. This is a horrible way to do things because it vitimizes people like the author of this thread. Just a suggestion to any of you that work for wells fargo, like it matters anyways, but try to have a little heart, we all work hard for our money and we are not all perfect living in a perfect world, we do not like people exploiting our mistakes, which is exactly what WF is doing.

This is in wells fargos best interests, because every dissatisfied customer that takes their business elsewhere to a bank that doesn't screw people is less money for the company. Explain to me your policy of '2 overdraft refunds'ever in the entire life of the customer's accounts, sounds to me like you just plain don't give a darn about anyone but yourselves. Look around, people are complaining about you everywhere. What do you think these people are going to do, just sit around and get screwed when there are places to go where they don't screw you?

Credit unions are the best way to go IMO, because they are not owned by a corporation or just people that only care about making money off you, they are owned by the people.

As a former employee and current customer, I have a few things to say here:

1) Wells Fargo charges way too much for OD's. However, it is part of their plan to charge for everything you do - that is how they make money. The government regulates what is allowed and recently changed the rules for what banks are allowed to charge for overdrafts and the like. WFB charges the max. Why shouldn't they? In some places there is very little choice as to where else one might bank.

2) The Lead Teller who wrote in should be fired. Of course, she has about the same maturity and intelligence as most tellers. I'm not even certain that you have to have a high school diploma to be a teller. Basically, if you work for the bank, the tellers are the lowest form of life - they hear everything last and are not really involved in corporate day to day life. In a company like WFB, where everyone is expendible, they are the least valued - surprising since they have access to the most hard cash.

3) WFB, in particular, debits your money in a flash. You gotta be on top of it. The people here who are dissing the original poster for not being on top of it are ridiculous. I make a fair amount of money, I have purchased a home in the same city as WFB's home - one of the most expensive places to live on this earth. I occasionally (once a year or so) fail to stay on top of my finances and am nailed with an OD fee for the convenience of them electronically debiting my savings account the amount over - even if it is $1.25. Honestly. I get mad about the fee and chalk it up to a lesson - HOWEVER - if you are not savvy to this practice and rack up hundreds of dollars of fees without realizing it - you could get really angry. ESPECIALLY since WFB charges the max they can. It sucks. They suck to do it. There's no doubt about that. Until people get really po'd and start ending their business relationship with WFB in mass numbers it's not going to change. That is the way it is. If the original poster gets gratification from picketing a branch then good for her! More power to her. Those who would make sport of her for that action are a bunch of sourpusses who don't realize this country is based on revolution and expressing your dissatisfaction with unfair practices.

That is my take - don't expect human kindness from an inhuman company, but that "lead teller" from Minnesota (who is probably working for a BK now, to tell the truth) should really be ashamed of herself. And to take a personal pot-shot. That was really inappropriate. It is tempting to send her response to all of the WFB's in Minneapolis, except that she is probably already gone.

Original Poster - YOU GO GIRL!

I know I'm a loser because I have nothing better to do but read your stupid problems,

but hey, I still have MY money!

..you should just accepted the fact that you're a loser too and go on with life.

Hello. First let me start by saying all the mud slinging done here has done no good to anybody. We are all adults here and should treat each other as such. Now the reason I am writing in is to ask a few questions. One I live pay check to pay check but how does that make me any worse at math than donald trump? I think any comment about peoples income in relation to their intellagence is just plan ignorant. It is my BELIFE (not fact) that banks target people with less money in their account because its the only way the bank can get any amount of money worth getting from them. For example.. Donald Trump has 1,000,000.00 in the bank. The bank uses that as capital and leverage to make more money. Now I have 15.00 in my account. What good does that do them? One tellers pay for 2 hours? So in comes "monthly charges", "fee maintnance charges" and so forth. They charge us for being broke. Now I also understand the bank needs to make money just like any other buisness, but tell me this do you really think it cost the bank $33.00 to "bounce" a check? Last time I checked the computer does all the work? When did 10 seconds of computer time cost $33.00? Enough of my opinion here is my reality...
I have been a wells fargo customer for some time. No bounced checks or any other problems on my side. I got injured at work and put in the hospital. All of my bills were on automatic pay. Since I was in the hospital I was not making any money to put in my account. My bills were paid 2 days after i went into the hospital. Since I missed some work my direct deposit did not cover the cost. At this point I will somewhat agree that it is my responsability to eat the fees because it is not the banks fault I was hurt. Now after being in the hospital for a week I could finally move so I called the bank and told them what had happened and asked them to freeze my account untill I could go back to work and pay it off. I was told that they could not do that and I would continue to incure charges untill I made it right. I was out of work and not yet on disability so I had no way of putting money in my account. They charged me for the amount of my bill pay checks that equaled $1,200.00 and 6 bounced check fees that amounted to $198.00 Although I found this inconvienant I felt it was my responsability to reimburse what they had put out ($1,200) and some fees for the mistake($198.00). When I finally got a disability check (which is 1/3 of what I made) and went to pay some of my balance I had incurred all kinds of level this and level that charge to equal $1,800 in just charges on top of that orig 1,200 they put out for me. I pleaded my case with both a phone rep and a branch manager and was told that paying $3,000 in charges was better than the alternative of going into checks. To add insult to injury (no pun intended) I found out that they did not honor the bill pay checks so they were really out $0.00!!!!! After 2 months of argueing my case I took out a loan to pay off my balance so I could get back on track. I then decided to close my account and go elsewhere. When I went to another bank to open an account I was told I couldn't because I was in Chex from wells fargo from a month before!!! I am now out $3,000.00 to wells fargo, $90.00 in late fees for my unpaid bills and unable to open a new account. I know it is not the banks fault I got hurt and I don't blame them but don't you think a little human compasion would be in order?

I thought about signing up as a customer for Wells Fargo about 3 months ago but have changed my mind beacause of the Wells Fargo poor electronic system.

I have an Aunt who has been banking for Wells Fargo for many, many years and has come to the point of being fed up. She use the multiple accounts for purchases and automatic bill pay. Every other month (sometimes in the same month twice) Wells Fargo overcharges her account.

Then she spends up to 45 min each time to have them correct the account and they always, always!!!!!!! say "sorry for the mistake, it was their fault", but I feel that its not enough. One thing you dont play with is "people's money".

Lisa,

First of all, congratulations on ridding yourself of Wells Fargo. I have heard nothing but tales of nastiness about this bank.

Also, I was reading through the threads and in one of them you stated that you had moved to both a credit union, and to Washington Mutual. I am also a Washington Mutual customer, and I would never do business with any other bank. Before I had a bank account, I did some research to find out which bank would meet my needs the best. Wells Fargo and Washington Mutual were amoung two banks that I compared. Some of their differences:

WELLS FARGO
-Fee for opening an account, and a monthly fee just to 'maintain' your account.
-Regarding fees, let me elaborate. Wells Fargo charges a fee for almost everything. Online banking, their "toll-free" customer service number, anything dealing with accessing your account, if you talk to a teller, and many other things.
-Not nationwide. They'd like you to think so, but they're only partially nationwide.
-Deceptive practices. I also looked on the website of the Better Business Bureau and Wells Fargo is listed as one of the most deceptive banks in the business.
-Rude employees. While doing my research, I asked an employee for some clarification about their accounts, and not only did she treat me like I was stupid, but she was rude and dismissive.

On the other hand,
WASHINGTON MUTUAL
-Does not charge a fee for online banking, talking to customer service over-the-phone, visiting a teller inside, or use of their ATM's.
-Washington Mutual doesn't charge ANYONE to use their ATM's, whether you're a Washington Mutual customer or not. (This is the case in Washington and Oregon at least, I cannot vouch for other states. Also, be careful, because even though WaMu doesn't charge you a fee, your own bank might.)
-Washington Mutual also is not Nationwide, but they have superior service even if you're traveling, and they do have branches in many states nationwide, just not all of them.
-Friendly and helpful employees. Again, while doing research, I asked an employee about some of their more cryptic account information, and not only was she helpful, but she was also very honest. When I asked her a question she didn't know the answer to, she wasn't dismissive or rude. Instead, she told me she didn't know, and said that she would get me the answer to those particular questions after she had answered my other questions.
-No fee just for having an account. Truly Free checking

Obviously, after doing my research, (I compared four banks total) I picked Washington Mutual. Wells Fargo was at the bottom of the list, and I probably would not have chosen them even if the other three were also seemingly disreputable.

Now, here's the kicker. I will admit, I am a VERY POOR MONEY MANAGER, as far as keeping a log of my purchases and transactions. I rarely write anything down, or record information. I throw my credit card receipts away (not the ones with the number, just the ones where the number, is all XXXX'd out.) I'm well aware that this is irresponsible, but I'm very lazy. (And to all those people who are reading this and thinking that I'm a prime target for identity theft, think again. I have taken MANY MANY steps to ensure this does not happen.) Well, much to my delight, Washington Mutual has an account called an Overdraft Line of Credit (or ODLOC). I applied for it, and after some paperwork, I was approved for an ODLOC. What this does, is that whenever my account is overdrawn, instead of the bank charging me a fee (and the company who gets denied payment, as well), they debit the money from my ODLOC and deposit it into my checking account. The ODLOC is not transaction based either, but it's paid for like a credit card, with an APR of 12%. Since I pay off my ODLOC with every check I deposit, I end up paying about $6 in fees per YEAR, rather than the $50 or so per month in overdraft fees I was paying, back before I got the ODLOC. So, if you have the time, and are either not good at math, or simply too lazy to write down all your finances into a checkbook, an ODLOC is a great way to go.

Keep in mind that even though I don't write down my transactions, I do still keep track of them all with a visit (usually once a day) of at least once every three days to my account online. WaMu has a wonderful, user-friendly, online banking system. And they also have phone-in service that's automated and works great too. Anyways, I hope this helps, and I'm sorry you had such nasty dealings with Wells Fargo before you found out what a horrid company they are!

My husband and I both have had the unfortunate experience of banking with Wells Fargo...and that has included dealing with their ridiculous overdraft fees.

I moved out here from Ohio where I had banked with a city-wide bank since I was 18. Yes, I believe thoroughly that you should pay attention to your own finances, but I thought the way my former bank handled overdrafts was very ethical and fair. For example...

1) Overdraft protection accounts were not based on your credit score or how long you'd been banking with the company. They started with a minimum of $50, ranging upwards. By the time I left my bank, I had an overdraft protection amount of $500 available to me, where I'd been 18 years old and walked in with an available amount of $50 given to me immediately.

2) I had to open another account at another bank, once, because my employer would only deposit checks directly to this bank. The way the other bank I banked with dealt with overdrafts was this: If you had written several checks and there was only money enough to cover one - they would process the one that came through first. The other would then be subject to an overdraft charge in percentage to the amount overdrafted.

If Wells Fargo operated like either of the two previous banks I've banked with, I would consider Wells Fargo's business practices ethical. However, here are two occurrences that happened to my husband recently...

1) My husband, a Marine, returned from Iraq. When he came back, we went on a cross-country trip to visit our families. This involved stopping many times for gas and to eat. We were careful to track the account and on the way back, we were low on money in that particular account so we stopped using it. A transaction fee occurred making the account overdraft by 70 cents.

True, we went too low...and their fees put the account just barely over. If they'd charged us ONE overdraft fee for that one charge that had put us over, we would've understood. However, here is where Wells Fargo really (how do I say this?) p***ed us off!

They charged us an overdraft fee for EVERYTHING that we'd used the card for in the past 24 hours. Driving cross country, we'd made quite a few stops...and what makes me mad is that the money was there for ALL of those purchases but the $9.00 fee they charged just for having the account. Thus, their charges totaled well over $400. Isn't this a bit ridiculous for a 70 cent overage? A lot of people would say that it's our fault...and the fault of going over WAS our fault. However, does anyone else not think it's just a tad bit unethical to charge $33 for every purchase we made when there was sufficient funds to cover all but ONE of those purchases? The last that went through was not even a purchase made by us...it was a banking fee. We wrote no bad checks, the bank charged us a fee that put us over.

I was offended by the person who blasted Lisa for living paycheck to paycheck. Unfortunately, with a husband in the Marines I know what it's like to live paycheck to paycheck. They don't pay our service men & women nearly enough and with how much we have to move, it's really tough for a Marine spouse to hold down a steady job to support that income (which is why I'm in the process of starting up my own business). To that person who made that comment: PLEASE think before you speak. Yes, having that quintessential 3 months savings account would be fantastic...but it's not always immediately feasible for all of us.

2) Another incident occurred just recently. We made the decision to leave Wells Fargo after problem after problem with their bank. My husband had some online bill pays set up with them which he went in to the branch and told them to cancel and to close out the account. This was a week ago. The teller assured him that the account would be closed the first thing the next morning and cut his old bank card. He walked out thinking he was finally rid of this bank and their B.S.

Today, we look online at another account that we still have open to see how much we have left in there. This account was a joint account we created for myself to deposit my paychecks into since my employer did not take direct deposit. Surprise, surprise. The account my husband closed last week is still open...and on top of that, the automatic bill pays he had were not cancelled...and now we're in the negative with even more overdraft charges because they tried sending all those bill pays through.

The saga never ends with this bank. I think Wells Fargo could make its customers a lot more happy by following the business models of some of it's competitors. For those of you who say the customer is not always right, well...the customer is the one bringing money into your bank. Your company draws interest off that money which it invests, making quite a nice, little profit. Where do you think your salary comes from?

Banks are making money off us consumers every minute of every day. Do I think overdraft fees are reasonable? Yes - but ONLY for the amount overdrafted, not applying them to every transaction made within 24 hours. Also, being that humans are infallible and NONE of us are perfect, I think it would be good business practice for banks to at LEAST offer overdraft protection strictly in the amount of all regular monthly banking charges to those with poor or no credit if they want to base things on a credit scale.

How is this any more ethical than Blockbuster's late fee shams? Seeing as how Blockbuster is now doing away with their late fees after unhappy customers have signed up with Netflix... Maybe it's time for Wells Fargo to save themselves before the media takes it out on them. It's only a matter of time.

It's pure fact that we live in a world of approximately 6.5 billion idiots run by about 10,000 exceptionally brilliant people that create our technology (that the rest of us 6.5 billion have to work hard to even grasp a 1% understanding of!). None of us are perfect - overdrafts are going to happen - but what makes it ethically sound to rip people off for the very fact that humans are infallible and eventually will make mistakes. That's what I want to know...

My husband and I both have had the unfortunate experience of banking with Wells Fargo...and that has included dealing with their ridiculous overdraft fees.

I moved out here from Ohio where I had banked with a city-wide bank since I was 18. Yes, I believe thoroughly that you should pay attention to your own finances, but I thought the way my former bank handled overdrafts was very ethical and fair. For example...

1) Overdraft protection accounts were not based on your credit score or how long you'd been banking with the company. They started with a minimum of $50, ranging upwards. By the time I left my bank, I had an overdraft protection amount of $500 available to me, where I'd been 18 years old and walked in with an available amount of $50 given to me immediately.

2) I had to open another account at another bank, once, because my employer would only deposit checks directly to this bank. The way the other bank I banked with dealt with overdrafts was this: If you had written several checks and there was only money enough to cover one - they would process the one that came through first. The other would then be subject to an overdraft charge in percentage to the amount overdrafted.

If Wells Fargo operated like either of the two previous banks I've banked with, I would consider Wells Fargo's business practices ethical. However, here are two occurrences that happened to my husband recently...

1) My husband, a Marine, returned from Iraq. When he came back, we went on a cross-country trip to visit our families. This involved stopping many times for gas and to eat. We were careful to track the account and on the way back, we were low on money in that particular account so we stopped using it. A transaction fee occurred making the account overdraft by 70 cents.

True, we went too low...and their fees put the account just barely over. If they'd charged us ONE overdraft fee for that one charge that had put us over, we would've understood. However, here is where Wells Fargo really (how do I say this?) p***ed us off!

They charged us an overdraft fee for EVERYTHING that we'd used the card for in the past 24 hours. Driving cross country, we'd made quite a few stops...and what makes me mad is that the money was there for ALL of those purchases but the $9.00 fee they charged just for having the account. Thus, their charges totaled well over $400. Isn't this a bit ridiculous for a 70 cent overage? A lot of people would say that it's our fault...and the fault of going over WAS our fault. However, does anyone else not think it's just a tad bit unethical to charge $33 for every purchase we made when there was sufficient funds to cover all but ONE of those purchases? The last that went through was not even a purchase made by us...it was a banking fee. We wrote no bad checks, the bank charged us a fee that put us over.

I was offended by the person who blasted Lisa for living paycheck to paycheck. Unfortunately, with a husband in the Marines I know what it's like to live paycheck to paycheck. They don't pay our service men & women nearly enough and with how much we have to move, it's really tough for a Marine spouse to hold down a steady job to support that income (which is why I'm in the process of starting up my own business). To that person who made that comment: PLEASE think before you speak. Yes, having that quintessential 3 months savings account would be fantastic...but it's not always immediately feasible for all of us.

2) Another incident occurred just recently. We made the decision to leave Wells Fargo after problem after problem with their bank. My husband had some online bill pays set up with them which he went in to the branch and told them to cancel and to close out the account. This was a week ago. The teller assured him that the account would be closed the first thing the next morning and cut his old bank card. He walked out thinking he was finally rid of this bank and their B.S.

Today, we look online at another account that we still have open to see how much we have left in there. This account was a joint account we created for myself to deposit my paychecks into since my employer did not take direct deposit. Surprise, surprise. The account my husband closed last week is still open...and on top of that, the automatic bill pays he had were not cancelled...and now we're in the negative with even more overdraft charges because they tried sending all those bill pays through.

The saga never ends with this bank. I think Wells Fargo could make its customers a lot more happy by following the business models of some of it's competitors. For those of you who say the customer is not always right, well...the customer is the one bringing money into your bank. Your company draws interest off that money which it invests, making quite a nice, little profit. Where do you think your salary comes from?

Banks are making money off us consumers every minute of every day. Do I think overdraft fees are reasonable? Yes - but ONLY for the amount overdrafted, not applying them to every transaction made within 24 hours. Also, being that humans are infallible and NONE of us are perfect, I think it would be good business practice for banks to at LEAST offer overdraft protection strictly in the amount of all regular monthly banking charges to those with poor or no credit if they want to base things on a credit scale.

How is this any more ethical than Blockbuster's late fee shams? Seeing as how Blockbuster is now doing away with their late fees after unhappy customers have signed up with Netflix... Maybe it's time for Wells Fargo to save themselves before the media takes it out on them. It's only a matter of time.

It's pure fact that we live in a world of approximately 6.5 billion idiots run by about 10,000 exceptionally brilliant people that create our technology (that the rest of us 6.5 billion have to work hard to even grasp a 1% understanding of!). None of us are perfect - overdrafts are going to happen - but what makes it ethically sound to rip people off for the very fact that humans are infallible and eventually will make mistakes. That's what I want to know...

My husband and I both have had the unfortunate experience of banking with Wells Fargo...and that has included dealing with their ridiculous overdraft fees.

I moved out here from Ohio where I had banked with a city-wide bank since I was 18. Yes, I believe thoroughly that you should pay attention to your own finances, but I thought the way my former bank handled overdrafts was very ethical and fair. For example...

1) Overdraft protection accounts were not based on your credit score or how long you'd been banking with the company. They started with a minimum of $50, ranging upwards. By the time I left my bank, I had an overdraft protection amount of $500 available to me, where I'd been 18 years old and walked in with an available amount of $50 given to me immediately.

2) I had to open another account at another bank, once, because my employer would only deposit checks directly to this bank. The way the other bank I banked with dealt with overdrafts was this: If you had written several checks and there was only money enough to cover one - they would process the one that came through first. The other would then be subject to an overdraft charge in percentage to the amount overdrafted.

If Wells Fargo operated like either of the two previous banks I've banked with, I would consider Wells Fargo's business practices ethical. However, here are two occurrences that happened to my husband recently...

1) My husband, a Marine, returned from Iraq. When he came back, we went on a cross-country trip to visit our families. This involved stopping many times for gas and to eat. We were careful to track the account and on the way back, we were low on money in that particular account so we stopped using it. A transaction fee occurred making the account overdraft by 70 cents.

True, we went too low...and their fees put the account just barely over. If they'd charged us ONE overdraft fee for that one charge that had put us over, we would've understood. However, here is where Wells Fargo really (how do I say this?) p***ed us off!

They charged us an overdraft fee for EVERYTHING that we'd used the card for in the past 24 hours. Driving cross country, we'd made quite a few stops...and what makes me mad is that the money was there for ALL of those purchases but the $9.00 fee they charged just for having the account. Thus, their charges totaled well over $400. Isn't this a bit ridiculous for a 70 cent overage? A lot of people would say that it's our fault...and the fault of going over WAS our fault. However, does anyone else not think it's just a tad bit unethical to charge $33 for every purchase we made when there was sufficient funds to cover all but ONE of those purchases? The last that went through was not even a purchase made by us...it was a banking fee. We wrote no bad checks, the bank charged us a fee that put us over.

I was offended by the person who blasted Lisa for living paycheck to paycheck. Unfortunately, with a husband in the Marines I know what it's like to live paycheck to paycheck. They don't pay our service men & women nearly enough and with how much we have to move, it's really tough for a Marine spouse to hold down a steady job to support that income (which is why I'm in the process of starting up my own business). To that person who made that comment: PLEASE think before you speak. Yes, having that quintessential 3 months savings account would be fantastic...but it's not always immediately feasible for all of us.

2) Another incident occurred just recently. We made the decision to leave Wells Fargo after problem after problem with their bank. My husband had some online bill pays set up with them which he went in to the branch and told them to cancel and to close out the account. This was a week ago. The teller assured him that the account would be closed the first thing the next morning and cut his old bank card. He walked out thinking he was finally rid of this bank and their B.S.

Today, we look online at another account that we still have open to see how much we have left in there. This account was a joint account we created for myself to deposit my paychecks into since my employer did not take direct deposit. Surprise, surprise. The account my husband closed last week is still open...and on top of that, the automatic bill pays he had were not cancelled...and now we're in the negative with even more overdraft charges because they tried sending all those bill pays through.

The saga never ends with this bank. I think Wells Fargo could make its customers a lot more happy by following the business models of some of it's competitors. For those of you who say the customer is not always right, well...the customer is the one bringing money into your bank. Your company draws interest off that money which it invests, making quite a nice, little profit. Where do you think your salary comes from?

Banks are making money off us consumers every minute of every day. Do I think overdraft fees are reasonable? Yes - but ONLY for the amount overdrafted, not applying them to every transaction made within 24 hours. Also, being that humans are infallible and NONE of us are perfect, I think it would be good business practice for banks to at LEAST offer overdraft protection strictly in the amount of all regular monthly banking charges to those with poor or no credit if they want to base things on a credit scale.

How is this any more ethical than Blockbuster's late fee shams? Seeing as how Blockbuster is now doing away with their late fees after unhappy customers have signed up with Netflix... Maybe it's time for Wells Fargo to save themselves before the media takes it out on them. It's only a matter of time.

It's pure fact that we live in a world of approximately 6.5 billion idiots run by about 10,000 exceptionally brilliant people that create our technology (that the rest of us 6.5 billion have to work hard to even grasp a 1% understanding of!). None of us are perfect - overdrafts are going to happen - but what makes it ethically sound to rip people off for the very fact that humans are infallible and eventually will make mistakes. That's what I want to know...

I have always had my accounts at our small town bank, and have only been reading this thread because my mother-in-law's car note is through Wells Fargo.

I have to say that I DON'T understand where some of you are coming from. I balance my register daily, make sure I have copies/duplicates of every check I write, and have worked to establish a friendly relationship with my little bank.

As many of us do, my husband and I are currently living on one income, and our livelihood-our very survival-depends on knowing without a doubt how much cash we have for bills, food, fuel etc.

I am 28 and have been on my own since 16, so maybe that has a little to do with my mindset. You can't honestly expect someone to step in and help you with something as important and as personal as money if you aren't willing to work at it yourself can you?

I see many people in my neck of the woods worry about cigarette money, trips to McDonald's, and the little extras that add up so quickly. All I can think is 'Where is their sense of personal responsibility?'.

I have found that if you take responsibility for your own actions, you are more likely to be afforded help and compassion when you need it the most.

I'm not preaching, just sharing my take on this.

Its definately true that overdraft fees in general are rather hefty. They also tend to travel in packs which makes them even worse. The one thing you can do to make sure you're protected though, is to set up Overdraft Protection.

Every bank in the world offers this service. There may be a fee for using it, but its much cheaper than the overdraft fees. Your bank will set up a Savings account or a line of credit and connect it to your checking account. If you don't have it, you should get it, no matter what bank you're with.

First of all, I must say that while I think that the new overdraft courtesy programs (which now allow you to use your checking account above the available amount) are only useful if you know what you are doing. I will have to say that while it is a tragedy that you were hit with so many fees, is it truly up to the bank to keep track of how much money you have. If you budgeting technique is to swipe your debit card until it just cant be swiped anymore, you need serious help with budgeting and understanding money.
DEBIT CARDS 101 -- When you use your debit card the funds are put on "hold" for 24 hours. This ensures that within a 24 hour period, you cannot use more than what is in your acccount (unless you have overdraft courtesy which is relatively new), after 24 hours, the holds that exist are released. In order for you not to become overdrawn, you would then have to be keeping an adequate record, which you are supposed to do anyway, in order to make sure that you are not using more funds then you have.
TECHNOLOGY 101 -- You are able to see you transaction online because debit cards work through an EFT (electronic funds transfer) and ACH (automated clearinghouse) system. It is all technology so yes, you can see the transaction and temporarily it will be deducted on the screen. This is supposed to help you with balancing your checkbook, but it is not what the bank personnel actually see or use when generating statements or telling you about your account. IT IS A REFERENCE TOOL, not the final and almighty word when it comes to your account. The transaction will not actually post until the institution where you swiped your card actually closes out their receipts on their end. After they batch their card transactions, then it will come out of your account. So receipt in hand does not mean free and clear if other items come through your account before your debit card transaction clears. So, in conclusion, I would have to say that you are actually out of luck, not because the bank ripped you off, but because you did not keep track of your own transactions. The bank does not baby-sit accounts. It is up to you to make sure that what you spend you actually have.

First of all, I must say that while I think that the new overdraft courtesy programs (which now allow you to use your checking account above the available amount) are only useful if you know what you are doing. I will have to say that while it is a tragedy that you were hit with so many fees, is it truly up to the bank to keep track of how much money you have. If you budgeting technique is to swipe your debit card until it just cant be swiped anymore, you need serious help with budgeting and understanding money.
DEBIT CARDS 101 -- When you use your debit card the funds are put on "hold" for 24 hours. This ensures that within a 24 hour period, you cannot use more than what is in your acccount (unless you have overdraft courtesy which is relatively new), after 24 hours, the holds that exist are released. In order for you not to become overdrawn, you would then have to be keeping an adequate record, which you are supposed to do anyway, in order to make sure that you are not using more funds then you have.
TECHNOLOGY 101 -- You are able to see you transaction online because debit cards work through an EFT (electronic funds transfer) and ACH (automated clearinghouse) system. It is all technology so yes, you can see the transaction and temporarily it will be deducted on the screen. This is supposed to help you with balancing your checkbook, but it is not what the bank personnel actually see or use when generating statements or telling you about your account. IT IS A REFERENCE TOOL, not the final and almighty word when it comes to your account. The transaction will not actually post until the institution where you swiped your card actually closes out their receipts on their end. After they batch their card transactions, then it will come out of your account. So receipt in hand does not mean free and clear if other items come through your account before your debit card transaction clears. So, in conclusion, I would have to say that you are actually out of luck, not because the bank ripped you off, but because you did not keep track of your own transactions. The bank does not baby-sit accounts. It is up to you to make sure that what you spend you actually have.

First of all, I must say that while I think that the new overdraft courtesy programs (which now allow you to use your checking account above the available amount) are only useful if you know what you are doing. I will have to say that while it is a tragedy that you were hit with so many fees, is it truly up to the bank to keep track of how much money you have. If you budgeting technique is to swipe your debit card until it just cant be swiped anymore, you need serious help with budgeting and understanding money.
DEBIT CARDS 101 -- When you use your debit card the funds are put on "hold" for 24 hours. This ensures that within a 24 hour period, you cannot use more than what is in your acccount (unless you have overdraft courtesy which is relatively new), after 24 hours, the holds that exist are released. In order for you not to become overdrawn, you would then have to be keeping an adequate record, which you are supposed to do anyway, in order to make sure that you are not using more funds then you have.
TECHNOLOGY 101 -- You are able to see you transaction online because debit cards work through an EFT (electronic funds transfer) and ACH (automated clearinghouse) system. It is all technology so yes, you can see the transaction and temporarily it will be deducted on the screen. This is supposed to help you with balancing your checkbook, but it is not what the bank personnel actually see or use when generating statements or telling you about your account. IT IS A REFERENCE TOOL, not the final and almighty word when it comes to your account. The transaction will not actually post until the institution where you swiped your card actually closes out their receipts on their end. After they batch their card transactions, then it will come out of your account. So receipt in hand does not mean free and clear if other items come through your account before your debit card transaction clears. So, in conclusion, I would have to say that you are actually out of luck, not because the bank ripped you off, but because you did not keep track of your own transactions. The bank does not baby-sit accounts. It is up to you to make sure that what you spend you actually have.

First of all, I must say that while I think that the new overdraft courtesy programs (which now allow you to use your checking account above the available amount) are only useful if you know what you are doing. I will have to say that while it is a tragedy that you were hit with so many fees, is it truly up to the bank to keep track of how much money you have. If you budgeting technique is to swipe your debit card until it just cant be swiped anymore, you need serious help with budgeting and understanding money.
DEBIT CARDS 101 -- When you use your debit card the funds are put on "hold" for 24 hours. This ensures that within a 24 hour period, you cannot use more than what is in your acccount (unless you have overdraft courtesy which is relatively new), after 24 hours, the holds that exist are released. In order for you not to become overdrawn, you would then have to be keeping an adequate record, which you are supposed to do anyway, in order to make sure that you are not using more funds then you have.
TECHNOLOGY 101 -- You are able to see you transaction online because debit cards work through an EFT (electronic funds transfer) and ACH (automated clearinghouse) system. It is all technology so yes, you can see the transaction and temporarily it will be deducted on the screen. This is supposed to help you with balancing your checkbook, but it is not what the bank personnel actually see or use when generating statements or telling you about your account. IT IS A REFERENCE TOOL, not the final and almighty word when it comes to your account. The transaction will not actually post until the institution where you swiped your card actually closes out their receipts on their end. After they batch their card transactions, then it will come out of your account. So receipt in hand does not mean free and clear if other items come through your account before your debit card transaction clears. So, in conclusion, I would have to say that you are actually out of luck, not because the bank ripped you off, but because you did not keep track of your own transactions. The bank does not baby-sit accounts. It is up to you to make sure that what you spend you actually have.

I totally agree with Bill's statement. Totady's society is built around making money off other's failings. Those who have financial difficulties or problems maintaining their finances get hit the hardest with fee's because it's an easy take.

The best thing to do is keep a close eye on everything you have, financially. Recently, I recieved a call from my CU about some recent purchases (It's the holiday's, so I'm spending a little more often right now). They were doing a simple "Theft Protection" check... Sounds harmless, right? Well, they called my house while I was shopping and because I was not home, they closed my card off from purchases which was a major inconvenience at the time! When I called, they said it was in the "best interest of their customers" to follow such a proceedure to protect from unlawful theft and purchasing.

Because of their "best interest" in my spending, I had to spend 2 more days of shopping and lost 3 sales for toys my kids really wanted! The real issue behind it, in my own opinion, is the banks like watching our money. If my card ever gets stolen (and it has before), I'll call them...If my card really was stolen, I probably would have answered the phone. I could see a courtesy call, but not stopping purchases on my card when I don't answer my home phone.

Banks might tell you they don't have control of your finances, but the truth is that they have more control than you sometimes...One policy change could stop ALL the overdrafts in this country and perhaps help financially burdened families keep more money in their pockets. But, as long as it's easy revenue, why should banks change that policy?

"Watch your money, Question charges and ALWAYS make sure your information is accurate!"

Bill from Michigan,

While I tend to come down on the side of the bank because it's their business and people can go elsewhere...I heartily agree with you that as an industry they could resolve the majority of these problems by doing as you suggest and deny transactions for overdrawn accounts. You are probably right that they don't do it because it is a significant budget item for them and to eliminate them would be like cutting their own throats. Unfortunately, it is like so many other things where the poor and ignorant are taken advantage of by big business. I suppose that my first comment on this thread was an attempt to get this young lady to take control of her life and her finances so that they can not take her to the "cleaners." I hope that she is doing something now to protect herself!
Thanks for your input, it gave me something to think about.

I've taken the time (a lot of time) to read through each and every person's opinion here. What I recognize, is that people on both sides of this issue have valid points.

The most valid of the points given by pro-bank respondents is that the bank should not be responsible for keeping track of your account...you should. We all need to take responsibility for managing our own finances, and I'm fine with that.

Now, with that said, here's what I feel about the other side of the coin. I think that most definitely, all banks (not just WF) unethically allow and encourage over drafting of personal accounts. Overdraft fees represent a significant channel of 'easy' income for these financial institutions.

If you boil this issue down, there seems to be one specific burning question that stands out amongst the rest: 'Why does a bank card ALLOW overdraft of individual accounts?' It's a pretty good question, with no really good answers.

On the bank side of things, the only answer provided simply points back to what's been already said: 'The bank should not be responsible for keeping track of your account.'

That answer is inadequate and unacceptable. For any business or institution that 'claims' to have the best interests of their clients in mind, I feel that statement comes up well short of providing a solution to what I see as an epidemic of irresponsible personal financial management.

Yes, irresponsibility on the part of the customer is the driving force of this problem. However, it would be very easy to implement a 'denial of service' based on insufficient funds, rather than to openly allow individuals to complete transactions that they obviously do not have the funds to cover.

So you see, the point of people taking responsibility for themselves is really not the issue at all. The banking industry has the power to completely eliminate this problem, and yet they don't. Why? Well, then they couldn't generate all that easy revenue could they?

It's quite apparent that the banking industry does not have the best interest of their clients in mind.

Gary -

There is nothing wrong with "Working" people, I work very hard myself. But, there is a group, or class of people, that are not interested in trying to better themselves and always want to blame someone else for it. They resent people that do better for themselves and they will do whatever under-handed things that they can...just because they can. These are spiteful people who will not ever go anywhere in their lives. They hold resentment and no ambition. Sorry, but I've seen too many of them.

Gary -

There is nothing wrong with "Working" people, I work very hard myself. But, there is a group, or class of people, that are not interested in trying to better themselves and always want to blame someone else for it. They resent people that do better for themselves and they will do whatever under-handed things that they can...just because they can. These are spiteful people who will not ever go anywhere in their lives. They hold resentment and no ambition. Sorry, but I've seen too many of them.

Gary -

There is nothing wrong with "Working" people, I work very hard myself. But, there is a group, or class of people, that are not interested in trying to better themselves and always want to blame someone else for it. They resent people that do better for themselves and they will do whatever under-handed things that they can...just because they can. These are spiteful people who will not ever go anywhere in their lives. They hold resentment and no ambition. Sorry, but I've seen too many of them.

Gary -

There is nothing wrong with "Working" people, I work very hard myself. But, there is a group, or class of people, that are not interested in trying to better themselves and always want to blame someone else for it. They resent people that do better for themselves and they will do whatever under-handed things that they can...just because they can. These are spiteful people who will not ever go anywhere in their lives. They hold resentment and no ambition. Sorry, but I've seen too many of them.

What could be wrong with the "working class"?

Dear D, South Florida:

First you don't even know who I am, so your comment, "Do you REALLY think that the ceo d**k Kovacevich even knows or even cares who you are?" is completely out of order. If people don't have enough clout to contact Kovacevich directly then they can contact the Branch Manger or the Regional manager for assistance. There is always someone, up the chain, to speak to when problems occur. But, that is for problems, not for stupidity - like writing checks or using an ATM card when there is no money in an account.

And, I can guarantee you that if a teller does anything underhanded there are consequences. Oh, I know that there are vendictive "working class" people who have been hired as tellers and those people would do unscrupulous things like hide a customers deposit so that it is processed until as late as possible. If they don't get caught, nothing will happen. That's why these people will always be "Working Class" and never advance to a position of real importance. I'm sure that there are a lot of very good tellers out there. Those that go out of their way to make sure that customers are well cared for during their transactions. But, they are not ALL good people. We customers must keep ourselves protected against the bad ones and report problems with them.

Personally, I don't have the problem of overdrafts. I know how to count money and I keep enough money in my account to cover my expenses. Hence, no problems, no overdraft fees, no arguments, no complaints.

I repeat, from my earlier posting...IF PEOPLE DON'T LIKE THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES OF WFB THEN GO BANK SOMEHWERE ELSE! WFB does not want customers that continually bounce checks. When the complainers go to another bank or a CU, they will just have the same old problems, unless they change their way of doing their banking.

Oh, D in South Florida are you afraid to tell us your name? Maybe you are one of those unscrupulous tellers? Have you done things that you are not proud enough to tell us about?

Dear D, South Florida:

First you don't even know who I am, so your comment, "Do you REALLY think that the ceo d**k Kovacevich even knows or even cares who you are?" is completely out of order. If people don't have enough clout to contact Kovacevich directly then they can contact the Branch Manger or the Regional manager for assistance. There is always someone, up the chain, to speak to when problems occur. But, that is for problems, not for stupidity - like writing checks or using an ATM card when there is no money in an account.

And, I can guarantee you that if a teller does anything underhanded there are consequences. Oh, I know that there are vendictive "working class" people who have been hired as tellers and those people would do unscrupulous things like hide a customers deposit so that it is processed until as late as possible. If they don't get caught, nothing will happen. That's why these people will always be "Working Class" and never advance to a position of real importance. I'm sure that there are a lot of very good tellers out there. Those that go out of their way to make sure that customers are well cared for during their transactions. But, they are not ALL good people. We customers must keep ourselves protected against the bad ones and report problems with them.

Personally, I don't have the problem of overdrafts. I know how to count money and I keep enough money in my account to cover my expenses. Hence, no problems, no overdraft fees, no arguments, no complaints.

I repeat, from my earlier posting...IF PEOPLE DON'T LIKE THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES OF WFB THEN GO BANK SOMEHWERE ELSE! WFB does not want customers that continually bounce checks. When the complainers go to another bank or a CU, they will just have the same old problems, unless they change their way of doing their banking.

Oh, D in South Florida are you afraid to tell us your name? Maybe you are one of those unscrupulous tellers? Have you done things that you are not proud enough to tell us about?

Dear D, South Florida:

First you don't even know who I am, so your comment, "Do you REALLY think that the ceo d**k Kovacevich even knows or even cares who you are?" is completely out of order. If people don't have enough clout to contact Kovacevich directly then they can contact the Branch Manger or the Regional manager for assistance. There is always someone, up the chain, to speak to when problems occur. But, that is for problems, not for stupidity - like writing checks or using an ATM card when there is no money in an account.

And, I can guarantee you that if a teller does anything underhanded there are consequences. Oh, I know that there are vendictive "working class" people who have been hired as tellers and those people would do unscrupulous things like hide a customers deposit so that it is processed until as late as possible. If they don't get caught, nothing will happen. That's why these people will always be "Working Class" and never advance to a position of real importance. I'm sure that there are a lot of very good tellers out there. Those that go out of their way to make sure that customers are well cared for during their transactions. But, they are not ALL good people. We customers must keep ourselves protected against the bad ones and report problems with them.

Personally, I don't have the problem of overdrafts. I know how to count money and I keep enough money in my account to cover my expenses. Hence, no problems, no overdraft fees, no arguments, no complaints.

I repeat, from my earlier posting...IF PEOPLE DON'T LIKE THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES OF WFB THEN GO BANK SOMEHWERE ELSE! WFB does not want customers that continually bounce checks. When the complainers go to another bank or a CU, they will just have the same old problems, unless they change their way of doing their banking.

Oh, D in South Florida are you afraid to tell us your name? Maybe you are one of those unscrupulous tellers? Have you done things that you are not proud enough to tell us about?

#1. You know how much you deposited, that's how much you can spend! It's pretty simple.
#2. If you can't keep track of how much you spend you won't be eligible for a bank account soon...too many overdrafts and EVERY place will deny you and account.
#3. Every place that you enter in to a contract for services with (what you are doing when you open an account) gives you their "disclosures". I guarantee WF did too. YOU are responsible for READING and UNDERSTANDING all the rules, conditions, terms etc BEFORE you sign the paperwork. If you don't read it, or don't fully understand what it means YOU are responsible for asking BEFORE you sign. If you don't ask you are still responsible for it. Sorry. Reading the fine print is important.
#4. If you go into any bank right by the tellers it is usually posted that it may take up to 10 days to post a deposit OR debit a check/debit card transaction made on the account. It is your responsibility to understand what this means for you- plan ahead.
#5. After working in various jobs I have noticed a strange trend...the rudest (sp?) people are the ones that are the most wrong/uninformed.
#6. In BAnking the "customer" is not always right. It is one of the few industries (yes I've worked in banking) where this is true. Sorry they simply are not. If there is no money it does not matter how much you complain, if a check is bad, it's still bad if you talk to the manager, president or CEO and cannot be cashed.

#1. You know how much you deposited, that's how much you can spend! It's pretty simple.
#2. If you can't keep track of how much you spend you won't be eligible for a bank account soon...too many overdrafts and EVERY place will deny you and account.
#3. Every place that you enter in to a contract for services with (what you are doing when you open an account) gives you their "disclosures". I guarantee WF did too. YOU are responsible for READING and UNDERSTANDING all the rules, conditions, terms etc BEFORE you sign the paperwork. If you don't read it, or don't fully understand what it means YOU are responsible for asking BEFORE you sign. If you don't ask you are still responsible for it. Sorry. Reading the fine print is important.
#4. If you go into any bank right by the tellers it is usually posted that it may take up to 10 days to post a deposit OR debit a check/debit card transaction made on the account. It is your responsibility to understand what this means for you- plan ahead.
#5. After working in various jobs I have noticed a strange trend...the rudest (sp?) people are the ones that are the most wrong/uninformed.
#6. In BAnking the "customer" is not always right. It is one of the few industries (yes I've worked in banking) where this is true. Sorry they simply are not. If there is no money it does not matter how much you complain, if a check is bad, it's still bad if you talk to the manager, president or CEO and cannot be cashed.

#1. You know how much you deposited, that's how much you can spend! It's pretty simple.
#2. If you can't keep track of how much you spend you won't be eligible for a bank account soon...too many overdrafts and EVERY place will deny you and account.
#3. Every place that you enter in to a contract for services with (what you are doing when you open an account) gives you their "disclosures". I guarantee WF did too. YOU are responsible for READING and UNDERSTANDING all the rules, conditions, terms etc BEFORE you sign the paperwork. If you don't read it, or don't fully understand what it means YOU are responsible for asking BEFORE you sign. If you don't ask you are still responsible for it. Sorry. Reading the fine print is important.
#4. If you go into any bank right by the tellers it is usually posted that it may take up to 10 days to post a deposit OR debit a check/debit card transaction made on the account. It is your responsibility to understand what this means for you- plan ahead.
#5. After working in various jobs I have noticed a strange trend...the rudest (sp?) people are the ones that are the most wrong/uninformed.
#6. In BAnking the "customer" is not always right. It is one of the few industries (yes I've worked in banking) where this is true. Sorry they simply are not. If there is no money it does not matter how much you complain, if a check is bad, it's still bad if you talk to the manager, president or CEO and cannot be cashed.

After reading several comments on this thread concerning WF, including comments from Jenny (an employee), I have something to add...

I used to bank at WF and BofA...Both set their own rules on HOW money is moved in your account and how transactions are processed. None of which is clearly disclosed to the consumer. I know this because I now bank with a Credit Union and my transaction on my debit cards are processed within MINUTES, not days...Credit Unions, by reputation, are smaller and less technologically advanced as "normal" banks...But it seems they are a lot more advanced in organization and customer care! My debit card STOPS WORKING when my balance reaches $.01...If the transaction I am trying to make exceeds the "REAL" balance on my account, it's denied...BofA and WF allow OverDraft Transactions to lure the customer into buying overdraft protection and charging them erronious fees, that's a clear FACT! Banks are in business to make money, some are in it to take yours!

If anyone needs a good bank, I suggest Desert School CU...I live check to check and I haven't had any problems for the past 4 years with this bank! As far a things are concerned with Jenny, your career will be listening to people b***h about the OD fees, sooner or later your "straight up" attitude will change! "Straight Up", Banks make fees to rip off consumers and being an employee of that makes you just as much of a rip-off as the bank itself!

Lorrie, Tellers are not no bodys. WE can control when you get your cash. Other tellers may not admit it, but we do have more control over your money than you think. Do you REALLY think that the ceo d**k Kovacevich even knows or even cares who you are? I would say "No". I am a teller at a large bank in Florida and I to love to put people in their place especially when they overdraw their accounts. I bet that when you go into your local branch, of what ever bank would let you open an account, the tellers all but run into the back room, just to avoid listening to you complaine about who got you upset this week. And to Tracey in Texas and all the other people who keep over drawing your accounts, "Thank you" and keep it going, we all deserve a raise. And one more thing, "Have a nice day"

Lorrie, Tellers are not no bodys. WE can control when you get your cash. Other tellers may not admit it, but we do have more control over your money than you think. Do you REALLY think that the ceo d**k Kovacevich even knows or even cares who you are? I would say "No". I am a teller at a large bank in Florida and I to love to put people in their place especially when they overdraw their accounts. I bet that when you go into your local branch, of what ever bank would let you open an account, the tellers all but run into the back room, just to avoid listening to you complaine about who got you upset this week. And to Tracey in Texas and all the other people who keep over drawing your accounts, "Thank you" and keep it going, we all deserve a raise. And one more thing, "Have a nice day"

Lorrie, Tellers are not no bodys. WE can control when you get your cash. Other tellers may not admit it, but we do have more control over your money than you think. Do you REALLY think that the ceo d**k Kovacevich even knows or even cares who you are? I would say "No". I am a teller at a large bank in Florida and I to love to put people in their place especially when they overdraw their accounts. I bet that when you go into your local branch, of what ever bank would let you open an account, the tellers all but run into the back room, just to avoid listening to you complaine about who got you upset this week. And to Tracey in Texas and all the other people who keep over drawing your accounts, "Thank you" and keep it going, we all deserve a raise. And one more thing, "Have a nice day"

Brian is right - stop the complaining. If you did not spend money that is not in your account, you would not get over draft charges. Period! You can say what you like about WFB, but where ever you go - if you don't have money in your account, you get an over-draft charge!

If you don't like the way WFB handles their over-draft fees then move to another bank. I have been banking with WFB for 20 years. I have never had a problem with over-draft fees because #1, I don't write checks or use my debit card when I don't have money in the account and #2, I keep a buffer in my account to make certain that should I make a mistake, it's covered.

Frankly, it is not their fault if I or you or anyone else makes a mistake. You can't complain when you are the one in error.

Jeff,

Obviously you didn't realize this, But NORWEST bought Wells Fargo and decided to keep the WElls Fargo name and brand because it was none nationally whereas Norwest was not....sorry but your still dealing with Norwest!!

Lisa,

Balance your check book and you won't have any problems. You cannot blame the bank because you don't know how much money is in your account. i don't mean to be harsh but that's the realty. Take responsability for yourself and your finances.

Norwest was such a good bank with solid employees. The quality of service took a nosedive when Wells Fargo took over several years ago. WF definitely has "policies" that only benefit the company -- rarely the customer. If a customer happens to have several checks come through in a given night and there's insufficient funds in the account it will pay the largest check(s) first and overdraft the rest and charge an outrageous fee for each. Is this customer friendly? I called and voiced my opinion on this "policy" and was given the cold shoulder, which is all too common from WF.

I have banked at many large institutions over the years and I must say, by a large margin, Wells Fargo is the worst of the lot. Their "3 PM business day policy" is also antiquated considering the advance in computer systems today. Nothing they do favors the customer. This is sad indeed.

Lisa I apologize for your problems with Wells Fargo. I hear a lot of rebuttals but I personally can vouch for your anger. I, as well as my roommate, have both been screwed by constant, completely NONSENSE, fees from Wells Fargo in Corona, CA. The branch in Vons on McKinley to be exact. Even now it would be a waste of time to get into my situation due to endless hours on the phone being belittled by Wells Fargo Customer Service. Please keep up the good fight for us all. DO NOT BANK WELLS FARGO; Even my best friend who works there gives me this advice. Unfortunately I had to learn for myself.

I've met people over the years who have had problems with WF putting other people's checks through their accounts, and then refusing to fix the problem. I would never bank there - if I could help it.

At Bank of America, when they do the nighttime recording of transactions, they do the deposits first, then the withdrawals. That's always been their policy. At least it was last time I checked.

Also, when I've gotten myself into a pickle -writing
a check I forgot about, withdrawing cash - then the check comes in and bounces - if I ask nicely - they reverse the charge.

I've been with BofA close to 30 years now and they've always treated me very fairly - even in the paycheck to paycheck days.

Lisa.
I really don't want to add insult to injury, but if you do not have the funds to clear a transaction you make, then they are well within their right to charge you an unauthorized overdraft fee.
You should keep abreast of what you spend in any case and make sure you dont use your bank card in a careless manner.

In the UK, tarrifs of fees have to be provided legally to all customers when they open their account, and they are always available at any time by popping in to see your manager or any other member of staff in the branch.

I hope you realise where I'm coming from. In the future, just keep a record of what you spend in a notepad, keep it with yuo and then you can look at it and then decide whether or not you can afford to buy it.

I have been banking with wellsfargo since i was about 7 years old and I am probably one of their favorite customers of all times.... I have overdrawn my account (literally) hundreds of times over the years and it is currently overdrawn (when you overdraw as much as me it's $33 per incident) and I have recieved 3 OD fees in the last week... Just like everyone else in the world i HATE paying OD fees and I know that I have paid probably over $5000 in overdraft fees (very very frustrating) but at the same time, the reason I had to pay those fees is because I have spent money that wasn't mine (thanks wellsfargo) hundreds of times. I know that if I spend money I don't have than wellsfargo is going to "rape" me. How else would they stay in business to give you money to spend that you don't have. The thing I really don't like about wellsfargo is the process they deposit and withdraw funds...
for example: I have $10 in the bank and I spend $11... I think to myself "it's just 1 frickin dollar" but i know that they will charge me so I deposit a check my friend wrote (who banks with wellsfargo) for $10... YAY I wont get charged and now I'm happy that I saved $33 so I celebrate by purchasing my friend and I drinks totaling $8 so I "should" still have $1 in the bank... (not with wellsfargo) in reality they wont process any of those purchases till the night or the next day... so the next day i look at my account and WHAT THE HELL it's overdrawn by $65 because wellsfargo processes withdrawls before they process deposits (most banks do)so withdraw the $19 I spent [acount total= -$9] $66 in overdraft fees [account total= -$75] then they deposit the check [account total= -$65]... wow now that is strategic. you would think that someone in the world is smart enough to make a banking program that acctually processes each transaction (withdrawl or deposit) in the same order they acctually happen... Thats the order they show on your statement online... hmmm.... do you think they might do it that way on purpose??? If they decide they need help making that let me know because I know plenty of kids (5-8years old) who can teach them how to add and subtract in order. Better yet I will even design the program for any bank thats interested (for a fee of course)... Until then thank you wellsfargo for "letting" me spend money I didn't have (well i did, just not till you decided to deposit it)

In all honesty they have saved me once or twice from getting evicted or having my car taken away because i was $40 short from a payment... I'm sure it's benefited lots of people at one point, but most importantly... it benefited wellsfargo!

Wells Fargo has robbed many families of low income to benifit themselves. I have no access to any of it's banking locations because I LIVE IN Florida. If I need to dispute a charge I have to do it over the phone and for that I get charged a service charge. I was overdrawn in one ocassion and I called the phone number listed on my card and asked if anything could be done for that overdraft fee. I was insulted and charged an additionl phone charge. Two of the worst banks in the US are Bank of America and Wells Fargo. If these two banks paid me back what they owe me I would be rich. If there is a pettition to sign or a lawsuit filed againt them Count on me.

I HAVE ALSO HAD A PROBLEM WITH WELLS FARGO. I HAD A DEBIT CARD AS WELL BUT MY PROBLEM WAS THAT I WOULD BUY SOMETHING AND USE MY DEBIT CARD AND YES WRITE IT DOWN AND BALANCE MY CHECKBOOK DAILY.

WHEN I WOULD CHECK MY ACCOUNT ON THE WELLS FARGO WEB SITE THERE WOULD BE 2 DEBITS ON MY ACCOUNT FOR THE SAME AMOUNT AT THE SAME STORE ON THE SAME DATE. I WOULD THEN HAVE TO CALL WELLS FARGO AND ASK WHY THEY DEBITED MY ACCOUNT TWICE FOR 1 TRANSACTION.

THE BANKER WOULD ALWAYS SAY WELL THE STORE MUST HAVE RUN IT TWICE AND SO ON AND SO ON. THEY WOULD OFFER TO PUT IN A REPORT FOR ME SO THAT MY MONEY WOULD BE CREDITED BACK ONTO MY ACCOUNT.

THE ONLY PROBLEM BEING; NOT ONLY WAS I CHARGED 2 DOLLARS EVERYTIME THIS HAPPEND DO TO THERE MISTAKE BUT MY ACCOUNT WOULD HAVE THE SAME TRANSACTION PENDING TWICE. MEANING THE MONEY WAS ALREADY OUT OF MY ACCOUNT.

SO IF I WAS TO HAVE WRITTEN A CHECK AND IT WOULD HAVE GONE THROUGH I WOULD HAVE HAD A BOUNCED CHECK. AFTER THIS HAPPENED ABOUT 5 TIMES I FINALLY CHANGED BANKS AND WENT TO A CREDIT UNION AS WELL.

WHO DOES NOT CHARGE MY DEBIT CARD TWICE FOR ANY TRANSACTIONS.

Hello,

I've been following this thread for quite some time now, but haven't spoken till now.

I was once with Wells Fargo, and admit that I didn't keep a register and thought things were going to be peachy basically. The rep however, did not really brief me at all. They made it seem so simple about debit and online banking, plus overdraft protection.

I do have some comments about what people have been saying.

1. Overdraft protection (atleast in my state) is not so the card is denied when you don't have funds. No matter what, if you don't have the funds, you will get charge a fee. However, IF you have overdraft protection, you can use to either have a credit card, or savings account. When you overdraft, the funds not available will be deducted from your savings or charged on your credit card. However, what they didn't tell me was that there is a fee for that as well, which is usually 7-10 dollars. Still, much cheaper.

2. There is other issues I've read with banks about the "higher to lower" policy. Basically, the bank pays the highest transaction first, regarless of order. So basically if you have $100 dollars in the bank it would be like this normally right?

$100 in bank
-$10 purchase
-$10 purchase
-$10 purchase
= $70
- $100 purchase
leaving you with $-30 in the bank, resulting in ONE overdraft fee.

However, some banks automatically pay the highest amount first making it like this.

$100 in bank
-$100 purchase
= $0 in bank
-$10 purchase
-$10 purchase
-$10 purchase
= -$30 as well in the bank, but with THREE overdraft charges.

This should not be allowed, and should be illegal in my opinion. Some people have come back and said it depends when the funds were taking by the vendor. But some people have purposely tried to avoid this by waiting a few days, and doing it the same manner in the correct order.

The other problem I've had with a bank, is when they accepted a check and overdrew the account even though it should've bounced. Any employees have any light on that situation? Please answer.

Thankyou,

Lisa-

Your posts make it SO obvious! If you didn't spend more money than you deposit, you won't get overdraft fees. Wells Fargo is NOT responsible for you not balancing your checkbook!! Give me a break! Your attitude is so atypical of immature people who have no spending control.

My husband and I have been with Wells Fargo for a number of years now, and have never had a problem with them. Want to know why? We don't overdraft!!

Lisa-

Your posts make it SO obvious! If you didn't spend more money than you deposit, you won't get overdraft fees. Wells Fargo is NOT responsible for you not balancing your checkbook!! Give me a break! Your attitude is so atypical of immature people who have no spending control.

My husband and I have been with Wells Fargo for a number of years now, and have never had a problem with them. Want to know why? We don't overdraft!!

Lisa,

It sounds to me that you need to pull yourself together...learn from this experience and move on. I am 55 so it has been many years since I have had to live payday to payday. I didn't like it when I did it either.

But, I was once in you boat so I hope my suggestions will help you.

First, change banks. You will never get on with WFB again. Understand that all banks have fees and charges, but they are also are in the busy of protecting their stockholders and would be remiss if they did not charge OD fees. If they didn't charge OD fees, we would all do it routinely. They couldn't afford that.

Then make yourself a budget. Food, rent, gas, utilities (average bills, that change each month, on the high side), etc. (no cigarettes or booze). Include an amount for savings...any amount... $10.00 month or $100.00 a month. Add up your monthly expenses and divide it by the number of times that you get paid each month.

When you get paid, leave the amount that you need to cover your bills in your checking account and take the remainder in cash. ONLY spend the cash.

Use your checking account for paying bills and nothing else. If you don't have the cash...you don't spend it. At the end of the month you will have plenty of money to pay your bills.

Once you have control of your spending and you have extra month in your checking account, deduct $100 or more as a buff...just write it off so that you won't ever be over drawn again. Bite the bullet and get control of your life. It's not the bank, it's you. I have problems with WFB too...their customer service stinks. But, I now have accounts at five different banks and, Darlin'...they are all the same things.

As for the WFB employee who ENJOYS seeing people "leave with their tails between their legs", get another job.

You are a disgusting human being and should be glad that you do not have to deal with me. WFB does not want me to close my accounts for any reason.

If I ever came across you or anyone like you...I guarantee you that you would be on the loosing end.

You are smart mouthed and from your posting, I can tell, very unintelligent. If I ever employed someone with your attitude and treating people in that manner, just because they have done something wrong - you'd be fired!

You're a teller...a no body...a nothing! When I have a problem with WFB, I deal with people like CEO, d**k Kovacevich. Not with tellers! You should be ashamed for yourself. Take that tail of yours; stick it between "your" legs and FIND ANOTHER JOB!

WFB is not EVIL as was suggested - it's just another bank. If you want the privilege of working with a bank that has so many branches, you pay for that service with higher then normal fees. A small CU is good, but you will have problems with them too, unless you start taking responsibility for your own situation.

Learn from this and move on....from someone who's been there!

Me and my wife rarely balance our check book and in the last 10 years we haven't had any problem. But before that we had one heck of a time getting ourselves out of a mess. We ended up forgeting about the service charge for the account and went over by about $4. Even though this was a small amount it made us bounce several checks. The bank didn't notify us of any problems and just keep adding bounced check fees. Because of this by the time we got noticed we had deposited a pay check that they immediately took 1/2 of for the fees. Thinking that we had money in our account we wrote more checks and bounced a couple more. Pretty quickly we were depositing a whole pay check only to have the bank take the whole for bounced check fees. After racking up about $750 in fees the bank finally notified us. Upon researching I found that the bank had taken the service fees days early because they had made a policy charge and were taking the account service fees on the 1st instead of the 15th. We were able to get all the bounced fees waived and had the money restored. The bank actually had to reimburse us for fees at some of the stores who had sent us bill because they didn't recieve their money from the bank and instead had our checks returned to them. The could never compensate me enough for the embarassment the caused us the couple of times we went to the store after that and could get them to take our check and had looked at us like we were thieves. I bet we were one of the lucky ones and had caught the problem. Back then there wasn't a site like this to go and research and find some helpful info.

Bottom line it isn't always that you don't balance your check book because even if you do you might end up getting screwed anyways.

BTW you can't always go by the dates your check shows as posted on your account statement. Stores don't always deposits checks the same day and if a store is a part of a larger corporation they may have to send them off. Some of these stores can have direct access to banking computers and with the time difference you may see a check that they deposited after midnite on the east coast may show on your statement as the previous day.

Wells Fargo pulled the same trick on me, as well.

I made an accounting error and overdrafted my account. Wells Fargo decided to keep letting me use my debit card, even though the account was in negative balance and I DON'T have overdraft protection. Previously, Wells Fargo had DENIED POS or ATM transactions, even with a deposit PENDING to cover the amount, if there wasn't enough funds without the pending deposit for the transaction. That was fine and dandy with me, as it is a DEBIT card and transactions shouldn't be approved when no money is available. That is what Wells Fargo told me when I got the card.

Wells Fargo has several times been creative in thier book-keeping and credited deposits at the very last of a business day (even when they were made several days prior) and deducted transactions made that day prior to the credit in order to form a momentary overdraft and charge a fee. This is outright fraud.

As for the Wells Fargo employees who are "proud" of thier jobs and the company they work for, and ENJOY seeing people "leave with thier tails between thier legs", Be VERY glad you haven't dealt with me yet. I am not bullied by big companies and I will leave you crying and make you wet your pants. So far I have Gotten Wells Fargo to reverse 11 out of 20 overdraft fees, when several people insisted the MOST the could do was 3. I will not back down. I feel pity for the employees of Wells Fargo, having to work for an evil, callous company.

I applaud the original writer of this complaint and her bravery at protesting outside the Wells Fargo branch, and even posting her pic. I hope she (and everyone else) is still reading this thread about Wells Fargo.

PLEASE, everybody that has been ripped off by Wells Fargo, file an official complaint (As I have done) with the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.

Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System
Division of Consumer and Community Affairs
20th and C Streets, N.W., Stop 801
Washington, DC 20551

For further information you may call us at (202) 452-3693.

http://www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/complaints/

These are the people who police banks and make sure that they treat consumers fairly (which Wells Fargo doesn't)

Hello all, just thought I would state my piece in all of this. It is clear to me that however Wells Fargo decides to cover up their extreme overdraft charges, and however some snooty, self-important Wells Fargo employee, with way to much pride tries to mask the blistering truth; that wells Fargo banking is a simply put, a rip off. The truth of the matter, is that most Banks are crap; but Wells Fargo is a bit more malodorous.
I am a student in LA and it's hard enough for me to manage my schooling and job. When I find out that my account was over drawn by petty amounts from seven eleven from transactions that happened over a week ago and over draft fees in the amount of 33 dollars each, I am not only pissed off beyond belief, but, very disappointed in how capitalistic the bank system has become.
I'm definitely going to switch to a credit union screw banks, they don't want trust, they are greed filled institutions that make this country more paranoid and defenseless with every malicious step they make.
When I first joined Wells Fargo they said they had all these great deals for students---oh yeah WHERE ARE THEY. I wrote them a complaint about the excessive over draft fees and gave them a piece of my mind; in a nice way mind you.
Here is my first letter to them, fallowed by a response from their "customer care center"
ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
-----------------

Just thought I would give my 2 cents and say that I will be leaving this bank soon due to the ridiculous amount I pay for overdraft fees. I am a student and overdraft fees should be manageable, especially for students. Anyway, just though I'd let you know this company is making it very hard for me to make it through school, so thanks a lot. Sincerely but not happily Gary E Perlin
Dear Gary Perlin:

I am sorry that you are considering leaving Wells Fargo. Our goal is to provide banking products and services that are convenient, competitive and offer value to our customers.

If you do decide to close your account, you have four options to withdraw any remaining funds and finalize the closure:

1. Visit a branch.
2. Call us at 1-800-869-3557, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
3. Send a request for account closure requesting a official bank check for your remaining balance to: Wells Fargo, 350 SW Jefferson ST DP5, Portland, Oregon 97201. Please be advised, there is a $8.00 official bank check closure fee.
4. If you are an online banking customer and have no remaining funds in your account, send an account closure request by secure email. Simply follow these instructions:

-Sign on to a Wells Fargo online session at https://www.wellsfargo.com by entering your username and password
-Select "Site Map" from the pull down menu
-Click "Sign On"
-Choose "Ask a Question" under the Customer Service heading after your session has been initiated
-Click on "Email Us" under the Contact Options heading
-Complete the form presented and click "Submit"

I hope you will reconsider your decision to close your account. If you would like to discuss your needs to determine if a different mix of Wells Fargo products and services would suit you better, please contact us at 1-800-956-4442, option 4. Bankers are available to assist you from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

Sincerely,
Jacque Goutchier
Wells Fargo
Online Customer Service

The best line of defense against fraud begins with you. Click here for tips on how to protect yourself from Internet fraud www.wellsfargo.com/security/distributed.jhtml . Since the privacy and security of your personal and financial information is our top priority, please be assured that Wells Fargo will never request or send sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers or password information to you in an unsecured email.

If you have a question about your account, please sign on to your secure online banking session at https://www.wellsfargo.com , click the Sign On button and then select "Contact Us." If you are currently in "My Message Center," and have another question about this subject, click on the "Reply" button. To ask a new question, click on "Contact Us."
Here is my next letter fallowed by their response
I appreciate your response, but at this point I am losing more money to the enormous overdraft fees that this company instills. I had a $5.98 over draw and a $1.13 over draft, and for both I was charged a ridiculous $33 dollars, so no, there is no way I will stay with this bank. In addition, I would encourage anyone I know not to bank with Wells Fargo either.

Sincerely Gary Perlin
From: Wells Fargo Online
Posted At:August 19, 2004
Subject: Other questions or requests (#7482-002864-3840\28643840)


Dear Gary Perlin:

I am sorry that you are considering leaving Wells Fargo. Our goal is to provide banking products and services that are convenient, competitive and offer value to our customers.

If you do decide to close your account, you have four options to withdraw any remaining funds and finalize the closure:

1. Visit a branch.
2. Call us at 1-800-869-3557, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
3. Send a request for account closure requesting a official bank check for your remaining balance to: Wells Fargo, 350 SW Jefferson ST DP5, Portland, Oregon 97201. Please be advised, there is a $8.00 official bank check closure fee.
4. If you are an online banking customer and have no remaining funds in your account, send an account closure request by secure email. Simply follow these instructions:

-Sign on to a Wells Fargo online session at https://www.wellsfargo.com by entering your username and password
-Select "Site Map" from the pull down menu
-Click "Sign On"
-Choose "Ask a Question" under the Customer Service heading after your session has been initiated
-Click on "Email Us" under the Contact Options heading
-Complete the form presented and click "Submit"

I hope you will reconsider your decision to close your account. If you would like to discuss your needs to determine if a different mix of Wells Fargo products and services would suit you better, please contact us at 1-800-956-4442, option 4. Bankers are available to assist you from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

Sincerely,
Jacque Goutchier
Wells Fargo
Online Customer Service

The best line of defense against fraud begins with you. Click here for tips on how to protect yourself from Internet fraud www.wellsfargo.com/security/distributed.jhtml . Since the privacy and security of your personal and financial information is our top priority, please be assured that Wells Fargo will never request or send sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers or password information to you in an unsecured email.

If you have a question about your account, please sign on to your secure online banking session at https://www.wellsfargo.com , click the Sign On button and then select "Contact Us." If you are currently in "My Message Center," and have another question about this subject, click on the "Reply" button. To ask a new question, click on "Contact Us."


Hmmmmm, notice anything strange? there is no customer care, they send out the same freiken letter for every problem the bastards. So needless to say "you are the weakest link" good bye Wells Fargo.

thanks for your time

i have to say that i absolutely love this site and that its a shame that i have not found it earlier. i actually found it while doing research for primerica! yeah i know, mlm and all that jazz. pure comedy

now in repsonse to all the messages regarding overdraft fees. where do i start. well i have 7 years of banking experience so i know what i am talking about. recently for the past year i have worked for uboc.com as a call center rep. i spend 8 hours per day making good money being diplomatic to everyday idiots.

fact: properly maintaining a checking account is ONLY ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION!!!! THEREFORE, if you successfully passed 4th grade you are a shoe in.

now for the meat of the story:

although banking is very simple many people choose to gripe and complain about the fees.
it's very,very,very simple. the bank is there to provide a service and to make money. they do this a number of ways. pertaining to this particular issue, every company publishes an annual report of all the income earned. there is an actual category of "fee income". the bank makes millions of dollars from fee income.

now for the ugly part:
poor people unfortunately are the 99% victim of fee income. why, because nobody taught them how to properly manage their money, how to save and how to invest. their friends dont do, their parents didn't do it, and more than likely their kids wont do it. the people who are posting complaints regarding fees are doing so because they refuse to take responsibility for their actions. it's ugly but it's necessary. you can tell a lot about people by the way they manage their money. if you are constantly overdrawn it means you can't properly add/subtract or you think the magic banking genie will do it for you. and yes they will but there is a fee. that's why you are here. its never going to go anywhere. all banks work the same, some banks charge more, some less, but charge they do because it makes them millions of dollars per
year.

did you know that rich people: and let me qualify that, you are rich if you can miss 3 consecutive paychecks and not be on the street. now rich people watch their account like a hawk. they write down how much they have, and then subtract whatever they spend and they end up with an exact balance, rich people also check to make sure that checks they wrote and debit purchases clear for exactly what they intended. this is how they stay rich. poor people stay poor because of their lack of fine money management skills. in addition to other things.

stop wasting your time posting here, just do the math, add and subtract stop writing checks when you dont have the money, stop using your card when you expect direct deposit to hit. if the money is not in the account then you have NOTHING.

here is the real kick in the teeth though: banks make lots of money from your refusal to take responsibility, they even tell you that they are going to do so. now it's the middle of the month, your account is overdrawn and you have nothing, but you need money, kids need food, you need whatever. so in your local neighborhood in big NEON lights, is your CASH ADVACE ESTABLISHMENT. is anyone getting a clue yet, that there is TONS of money to be made off the backs of poor people who refuse to take responsibility for their own livelihood!!!!

New York stood strong against banks' "biggest-first" check-cashing policy that can stick consumers with extra bounced-check fees.

The state's banking department adopted a regulation in August 1999 that requires financial institutions to spell out to their customers the order in which checks will be cleared.

The order makes a difference: If a bank uses the big-to-small processing method, clearing the biggest check first, it can be quite costly.

Say you write four checks on one day. Your bank will clear the biggest check first, even if you wrote it last. If it bounces, every subsequent check bounces, too -- and you get socked with four bounced check fees instead of one. With fees as high as $30 a pop, you can be paying some serious cash for that budgeting faux pas.

"This has been something of a deep, dark secret," says Jean Ann Fox, director of consumer protection for the Consumer Federation of America.

"The only reason I'm aware of for banks to choose high-to-low processing is to bring in more revenue."





Processing order boosts revenue
Federal law allows banks to process checks in any order they choose.

"If there's 9,000 banks out there, you're going to have 9,000 slightly different policies," says a spokeswoman for the American Bankers Association.

But New York's policy says that the check-processing policy must be disclosed when an account is opened and again if a bank's policy should change. All current checking account customers in New York must be informed of their financial institution's check processing policies by Dec. 24.

"This way, things don't take place without (customers) knowing," says a spokesman in the State of New York Banking Department.

California calls it 'bad faith'
At least two other states have laws to discourage banks from using big-to-small processing to maximize bounced-check fees, according to Philip Gaddy, an attorney in Albuquerque, N.M. Gaddy filed a lawsuit against First Security Bank, accusing it of using the policy to boost bounced-check fees.
California has identified this practice as an example of "bad faith" on the part of the banks, Gaddy says. Nevada law prohibits banks from using big-to-small processing to boost bounced-check fees. It stipulates that when multiple checks are drawn on a single business day, and there is not enough money in the account to pay all the checks, the checks must be cleared in the order of ascending amounts.

But banks point out that lots of people prefer to have their larger checks, such as mortgage and car payments, clear before, say, their Sears bill. Some folks even prefer to pay their larger checks first.

According to the American Bankers Association, most consumers write their important checks first, so if checks are processed in numerical order they're going to come out high-to-low, anyway.

Ask about your bank's policy
Curious about your bank's check processing policy? Ask.

"We would encourage consumers to ask the question of the bank," says the American Bankers Association spokesperson. "In many cases, checks get processed immediately. So it's really important to keep a running total in your account."

To avoid getting close to the edge where the order will make a difference, keep track of every withdrawal from an automated teller machine, every debit card purchase and every check that has been written. It's also a good idea to stagger larger payments so they don't all hit the bank at once, and pay the big bills right after payday when the account is flush with cash.

The consumer has the responsibility to know how much money is available in your account to spend. It is a COURTESY that a debit transaction is approved regardless if other transactions have or will go through before you swipe your card. Don't blame the institution because you cannot keep track of your money! It is irreponsible people that cause raises in service charges...If banks did not charge for NSF's or overdraft fees, then what will prevent people from overdrawing their account????? Take a remedial math class or don't open account and use cash only!!!!!

Banks charge you fees because they are in the busines of making money. If they didn't charge for the OD fee would people stop doing it? of course not. It's easy, cancel the over draft protection and let your card get denied or your check bounce (although that will generate a fee). Wells Fargo, Credit Unions and almost any other bank is the same. It's not a "rip off" they may show lack of compassion but they are entitled to charge you for your mistake. Besides, close your account and bank elsewhere. But make sure you don't get OD protection.

WELL, I WORKED FOR WELLS FOR 2 YEARS, AND LET ME JUST SAY ONE THING, JENNY THE "LEAD TELLER" IN MN, LET ME SAY THIS, I WOULD NEVER BE PROUD TO BE A TELLER AT ANY BANK. TELLERS HAVE THE SHITTIEST JOB IN THE WORLD, SO SHUT UP ABOUT BEING SO PROUD. AND YES W.F. DOES CHARGE FOR A LOT OF OD'S HOWEVER, ITS THE CUSTOMERS FAULT, BALANCE YOUR d**n CHECKBOOK!!! YOU WONT HAVE THIS F ING PROBLEM WITH YOU SPENDING MONEY YOU DONT HAVE. I WORK FOR A BANK NOW AND MY PEOPLE DONT HAVE THIS PROBLEM BECAUSE I TELL THEM.....WE ARENT RESPONSIBLE FOR KEEPING YOUR BALANCE UP TO DATE, YOU ARE.......YOU ARE THE ACCOUNT HOLDER, WE DONT BABYSIT IT...YOU DO....

SO ITS UP TO YOU

You're comments are articulate, concise, and of absolutely no consequence



With "millions of satisfied customers" as one of you so eloquently put it, how is it that on this site alone, wells fargo has fraud complaints from approximately 23 states?



I suggest you do simple research before you make such unfounded, and furthermore dishonest comments and "observations"



Good day to you and your "stands" on this "bank"

I used to bank at a small community bank in town. My gf and I moved in together and decided to switch banks to wf. (she works there, though not in customer service). I first off opened my own checking account, and after hearing all the fees they had, I decided to just close it right away.....but wait, its a 15 dollar fee to close it before 6 mos. What the heck, Ill just let it sit empty... So thats what I did. We have made a few mistakes and bounced some checks.. The thing that gets me is, when we bounced them, they charged me the $33 nsf, and then returned the check to the company I wrote it too, and they charged me $30 also.

My old bank coverd the check and then charged me $29. Much cheaper. My biggest problem is, debit cards arent really any different then credit cards, when there isnt any money left or your past your limit, why do they continue to allow you to use them and approve them? And you can check you account most times 5 mins later and it will be posted on your online report that you used it and for the amt, they will just be pending.

This not meant to insult you Lisa.

Living paycheck to paycheck you should of learned by now how to manage your funds. If you cannot accurately manage your money (by keeping an updated check register) you are leaving yourself vulnerable to being overdrawn. I believe most banks have problems one-way another, there will be times were money is mistaken taken from your account. If you have an efficient record of your finances you will be able catch this mistake as it happens, but it all starts with how you keep your records. I was a Wells Fargo customer (a few years ago) and I did get very upset when I found myself without access to my money one weekend. I had deposited my weekly payroll check on a Friday afternoon, went shopping using my atm card the next day. As always I keep a running account of my money in my check register as I buy the items. On Sunday, I went to the ATM to get some cash and I was declined with the "insufficient funds message". I thought how is this possible? Luckily, my father had taught me to keep some cash at home in case of an emergency. When I called customer service they stated I had only deposited 1/10 of my actual check. I stated this was impossible, I knew how much I earned at my job. She said there was nothing that can be done until the paperwork had reached their processing center (left Sat, would be there Mon.). Upon verifying the check, Wells Fargo learned their employee had left a zero off my deposit. Apparently atm deposits were re-entered by the employees the next morning. Everything was fixed and all subsequent fees were waived. I ended up switching (about a year later) to CalFed because they were paying interest on their checking accounts.



Anyway, the point was that either I was lucky with the people I spoke to or they saw that in the 10 years I had been banking with them I had never bounced a check or received an overdraft fee, so they talked to me with such professionalism. We often want to blame others for our problems, but realistically it is ultimately your, and only yours alone, responsibility to manage your expenses, relying on anyone else to tell you how much money you have is foolish.

To Jo and any other people this pertains to:



Rip-Off Report is not about people getting their jollies insulting others. This site is to make the public aware of deceptive business practices.



You can say whatever you like, but know this.....your remarks tell others just what kind of person you are.



If it makes you feel like a "superior" person to make unconstructive, sarcastic remarks about anothers' misfortune, I pity you.



I just hope somewhere down the road, you don't find yourself in their place.



Have a Great evening!

I am a former employee with knowledge of computer systems in several areas of the bank.



Bottom line, Wells Fargo is a very successful company. Unfortuantely, their systems do not talk to one another in the way that a consumer would expect (especially in 2004!)



There is no way that anyone from Wells Fargo can tell me that they have a complete picture of ANY customer or investor with assets in more than one place at the bank. In fact, you could own $1 billion in mutual funds and have $13 in a checking account - when you call customer service for your checking account, there is no way for the employee to know that you are an important customer of the bank.



When you make an "online" transaction, the end result is often the equivalent of hamsters in cages data entering your transaction from paper.



No great conspiracy, just old systems.

First off let me speak on this.



Lisa from Carona, CA.



Even if you don't write checks, you still have to record the transaction of a debit card into your register because that debit card is like using a check, just faster. It is used to get you in and out of line quick. As far as the internet banking is concerned. I have that with Bank of America and let me just say that although I can view my transactions online, I always rely on my checkbook register to know my balance. The computer will only tell you what the bank knows that you did (debit card transactions), although they haven't "officially" posted. You must still record them in your register to avoid O/D fees.



Try it..it might work!



*Jenny - you are right.



*Credit Unions to solve problem? I don't know..never tried it.



You still have to do your math and write your transactions in your register..the same w/ any bank book no matter what bank you are with.



Hopefully this advice works. Try it Lisa..it involves brains and counting

I have auto insurance that goes through the 5th of each month but Wells Fargo doesn't even put it through until the 10th!You might think you have more money in there than you do and overdraft yourself silly.



If you are not on top of your bank account 24/7, they will get you.Be careful!

You have to have a doctorate in accounting to bank with Wells Fargo, but bank tellers can just graduate from the 3rd grade...hmmmmm.

I have been a member of the American Airlines Empolyee Credit Union for over 15 years! I have YET to hear from ONE satisfied bank customer in my circle of friends! FYI - The last car I bought, I called my credit union and they FEDEXed the cashiers check to me for the dealership and told me - "When you get the title, just send it to us" - You tell ME what bank would do that for you?



There are MANY ways to beat the banks and joining a CU is the BEST way!

The idea of an overdraft fee is sometimes in the favor of a customer, although the bank processes this fee, you (the customer) must realize that its a hell of a lot better than someone knowing that your check is not good. At least when you get the OD fee, its yourself and your bank that only know about it. So think of it this way, sure, its money you could have had in your pocket, but you still have a clean record if you take care of the problem "properly". The best way is to balance your checkbook(s) the right way, if you passed a math class.

The idea of an overdraft fee is sometimes in the favor of a customer, although the bank processes this fee, you (the customer) must realize that its a hell of a lot better than someone knowing that your check is not good. At least when you get the OD fee, its yourself and your bank that only know about it. So think of it this way, sure, its money you could have had in your pocket, but you still have a clean record if you take care of the problem "properly". The best way is to balance your checkbook(s) the right way, if you passed a math class.

The idea of an overdraft fee is sometimes in the favor of a customer, although the bank processes this fee, you (the customer) must realize that its a hell of a lot better than someone knowing that your check is not good. At least when you get the OD fee, its yourself and your bank that only know about it. So think of it this way, sure, its money you could have had in your pocket, but you still have a clean record if you take care of the problem "properly". The best way is to balance your checkbook(s) the right way, if you passed a math class.

The idea of an overdraft fee is sometimes in the favor of a customer, although the bank processes this fee, you (the customer) must realize that its a hell of a lot better than someone knowing that your check is not good. At least when you get the OD fee, its yourself and your bank that only know about it. So think of it this way, sure, its money you could have had in your pocket, but you still have a clean record if you take care of the problem "properly". The best way is to balance your checkbook(s) the right way, if you passed a math class.

October 24, 2003



Dear Sir or Madam:



My name is Tami, I am one of several victims of check fraud inflicted by H. Two weeks ago she posted $100,000.00 bail for charges filed for one of her victims. These charges total seven felony counts. There are two of us left, waiting for warrants to be signed for the arrest of H regarding her criminal activity toward us.



H 's credit had been ruined while involved in a sour relationship. She had started up a small concrete business and several of us (her so called friends) had been helping her with many different aspects of her company's operation. I helped with her budgeting and accounts. On several occasions I (as well as a few other of her friends) cashed checks, for H, through my account as she was not able to have an account of her own. Usually homeowners would cut the check to me.



On 9/6/03 H and I went to my bank, Wells Fargo on 41st. Ave. in Capitola, CA to deposited one check and cashed the other. The homeowner had not filled in my name on this occasion. Trusting my friend, I filled in my name and wrote hers in the memo so the homeowner would have record. She assured me this was fine and she had cleared this transaction with the homeowner.



Again, I didn't think much about it as we have been friends for nearly three years. She has two children who were close to my daughter. I felt the need to help her and her children, as did many others. On this occasion I was not paying a bill for her or banking the money as she had to move out of her current residence in a hurry and needed to have the funds for a down payment for another residence.



On 9/6/03, Saturday I cashed check # 223 for $500.00. H owed my ex husband $180.00, in which she gave him $200.00 and she owed me $100.00. She kept $200.00 toward the security for her new residence. On 9/8/03, Monday, I went to Wells Fargo on 41st. Ave, on my lunch break, to withdraw funds from check #227 that was written for the amount of $1,200.00. I withdrew $940.00, for H's residence, leaving the remaining $260.00 that would be used for a bill that needed paid for H. The funds had not been approved and cleared so I was asked to come back on 9/9/03. I returned to Wells Fargo on 41st. Ave. on 9/9/03, once again on my lunch break, and withdrew the $940.00. H met me at my place of employment and I gave her the funds. She then secured her new residence. At this point in this statement I must state, H has admitted all of these events to Officer S of the Santa Cruz Sheriff's Department. Officer S is investigating another check fraud case, H is involved with (I am not associated with this particular victim).

On 9/17/03 I went to Wells Fargo on 41St. Ave. with my payroll check in the amount of $917.83. I deposited $817.83 and kept $100.00 for groceries and my cable bill. On this same visit I paid on my Wells Fargo credit card with check #2409 in the amount of $60.00. Before this deposit I had a few pennies over $216.00 in my checking account.



On 9/18/03 I stopped at a local gas station to fill up my car, before dropping my daughter at school, and going to work. My ATM card was declined. I thought that was strange.



I then attempted to pay with my Wells Fargo credit card and that too was declined. The clerk thought it may be his computer as it had been acting up. I continued on my way, not thinking too much about the two cards declining, again trusting my so called friend. After work, before heading off to my class at Cabrillo College, I stopped, once again, at another gas station. Again, both cards declined. Irritated by this, I telephoned Wells Fargo customer service to ask why these two cards had been declined. At first the woman told me I had $1,034.45 and she had no idea why the cards had declined. I explained it to her again and she said she saw the problem. My account was - $694.55. I felt this was strange too, as she had given me two different balances within minutes. At this point she stopped being helpful or considerate, telling me there was nothing she could do. She practically hung the telephone up on me. I regret I didn't write her name down as I was in my car driving. I started calculating funds I had deposited over the previous period of time, since the deposit of the so called homeowners checks. Upon doing this, I realized the two checks I had cashed and deposited had bounced. Frantic, I called H . She assured me she would take care of the situation and contact the homeowner first thing in the morning , on 9/19/03. I arrived at my home, at this time I was still on my cell phone speaking with Hilary about the checks. I took the mail out of my mailbox and found two insufficient fund notices from Wells Fargo. Again, this is 9/18/03. On the evening of 9/18//03, shortly after I arrived home from school, H stopped by to assure me again, she would clear the matter up with the homeowner the following morning, 9/19/03. We spoke and I was somewhat relieved.



On 9/19/03, throughout the day we spoke regarding the situation and she continually assured me she would present me with funds to cover what was taken from my account by Wells Fargo on 41st. Ave. By 5:00 p.m. she was not returning my telephone calls and I knew I had been taken. I left her a message informing her I would be filing a police report as soon as I arrived home. Meanwhile, I began to think about the name on the check of the so called homeowner. H had a good friend named J, I met only once (I didn't know J's last name). I had a sickening feeling the checks had come from her. My ex husband (who I am very close with) was able to contact H's brother and confirm my suspicion. The checks H had given me (and to others) were indeed those of J C, H 's friend of eighteen years. My ex husband went to the address on the checks (I had written the address down in my notebook, for my records, upon receipt of these checks) and left his name, my name and my telephone number, then returning to my home to wait for me. J did not contact us, so we called H's brother and with some investigation he was able to obtain J 's telephone number. We telephoned her and were surprised to hear her say she knew H had stolen these checks. She then continued to say she had tried to get into contact with me, but my number was unlisted (it isn't) and H claimed she did not know my telephone number. I felt this was also quite strange. She told me she would send me copies of the checks as Wells Fargo informed me they would not release copies of the checks to until the balance was corrected. I received the checks and was shocked at what I found.

J C had stated she received the checks in the mail and at that point she realized they were stolen and she questioned H (again, I had written H's first and last name in the memo field of both checks).



The checks were processed on 9/9/03, J faxed copies of the checks to Detective N at the Santa Cruz PD on 9/12/03. There is no way she could have received returned checks in the mail that quickly. She also stated a whole book of checks had been stolen, yet on the same fax she only claimed 2 stolen forged checks. I also took note of two tracer number listed on the back of both checks. Upon further investigation I learned these were skip tracers, placed upon checks reported stolen or missing.



With a magnifying glass one can confirm the first skip tracer was placed on these checks on 9/8/03, the second skip tracer was placed on 9/9/03. I noticed another computer generated stamp that with more investigation proves to be the clearinghouses' (Fiserv) funds approval and transfer. So, the checks were reported stolen on 9/8/03, at my bank. Wells Fargo did not inform me these checks were stolen. I did not receive any notification regarding these checks until the two insufficient funds notices I received in my mailbox on 9/18/03. Why would Wells Fargo not inform me these checks were stolen? Why would they send me two insufficient funds notices twelve days after the transactions and ten days after they were reported stolen, then remit the checks a second time, knowing, the checks were stolen and had been reported as such on 9/8/03?

Upon learning these checks had been reported stolen on 9/8/03, I contacted Wells Fargo customer service on 10/18/03 at 1-800-869-3557. I spoke with a gentleman who was only identified as Kelly. He was quite sympathetic, agreeing that my questions regarding Wells Fargo's carelessness in handling are very much warranted. I proceeded to request some kind of report or verification as to who reported the checks stolen on 9/8/03 and what was said. I also asked for a printout regarding the clearinghouse's (Fiserv) notification from Wells Fargo, to process and clear these funds. He was confident I would be able to obtain these reports and put me on hold to speak with his supervisor. Upon his return, he informed me his supervisor stated I would need a police officer and/or a lawyer to obtain this information. I thanked him and he conveyed his understanding and sympathy At this time I proceeded to telephone Wells Fargo on 41st. Ave. I spoke to Carlos Gutierrez. He informed me I would need to speak with the Vice President Christine Keyes. I have left messages for her regarding this matter and she has not returned my telephone calls. I ask you.. Why am I responsible for funds withdrawn that were reported stolen on 9/8/03 and then cleared on 9/9/03? If the Wells Fargo and Fiserv (clearinghouse) would have done their jobs, the funds would never have been released.

Now I am going to back up to 9/20/03. This is where the situation becomes tricky and shady. On 9/20/03, Saturday, I went to Wells Fargo. I spoke with Carlos Gutierrez (as stated previously, I spoke with him on 10/18/03). He was unable to help me and referred me (for the 1st. time) to vice president Christine Keyes. She was off for the weekend. Carlos did say he would reverse some of the bounced check fees. Why would any fees be reversed if I am guilty of these overdrafts? No fees were reversed until several days later. I went to Wells Fargo on 9/22/03 and she was unable to see me. I left copies of the insufficient funds notices, receipts of my payroll deposit (9/17/03), credit card payment (9/17/03), police report and detailed letter. She failed to contact me. After many days of attempting to contact Christine, I was successful, the date was 10/01/03. After a lengthy conversation and much rudeness on her part, I was able to get my account frozen. I must stress I had to practically beg her for this service. She said I was responsible and that if I didn't correct the balance my credit would be ruined and Wells Fargo would sue me. I proceeded to ask her what Wells Fargo's process was in regards to funds being cleared and transferred. She said the clearinghouse (Fiserv) contacts the payor's bank (J C to confirm the funds availability for transfer to the payee's account (me). She said she did not understand why it only took two days to clear these fund when in fact it should have taken six days. I asked her why I was being held responsible when Fiserv had cleared and transfered the funds, ignoring two skip tracers that should have stopped any transferring of funds to my account. She said This is not my department and referred me Risk Operations Management at 1-877-461-3644. Before I ended my telephone call with Christine I requested a notice of my frozen account and a recent transaction report. She agreed and the telephone call ended. I proceeded to telephone Risk Operations Management and I spoke with a gentleman identified as Gary. He did not understand why Christine referred me to his department, but he asked me to explain my situation. He was very sympathetic to my plight and he gave me Christine's boss's name and telephone number stating, I am not supposed to do this. Gary referred me to Suzanne Lewis at (831) 333-9442. Suzanne is the President of Wells Fargo on 41st. Ave. in Capitola. After two attempts to contact Suzanne I was successful. She said my case Warranted further investigation with her assistant and she would get back with me. I regret to say I did not write her assistant's name down. I have attempted to contact Suzanne on three other occasions and will not return my telephone calls.

Now the plot begins to thicken. I receive the note regarding my frozen account and recent transaction summary. Please refer to page marked #10. The cu #'s do not match. The first two pages are dated 10/1/03, the proceeding five pages are dated 9/22/03. The last activity to my account (at time of mailing) is listed as 9/26/03 yet the transaction summary was generated on 9/22/03 and not on 10/1/03. Why was the transaction summary not generated on 10/1/03? The summary was printed nine days before I froze my account.



It gets worse. Now I will list items that do not match or make sense. Please be patient, take note this is tricky. Please refer to statement marked #1. Check # 2407 is recorded as bouncing on 9/16/03. Reviewing all three online statements there is no record of check #2407. BUT, if one looks at the second page of the online statement marked #5 there is a bounced check fee of $27.00 for 9/16/03. Check #2407 is the only check found to be associated with the date 9/16/03. Look at the page marked #2. Checks numbered #2407 and #2409 are missing from the list. Check #2408 is the only check listed. Why? Please continue to the page marked #3. Check #2409 is listed as being presented on 9/26/03. If one refers to the page marked #1, check #2409 was presented for payment on 9/18/03 and returned unpaid with a bounced check fee of $27.00 (page #1.5 will confirm a second time). Please refer to the page marked #4. Check #2409 is listed as bouncing on 9/26/03 , and credited back to my account on 9/29/03. My calculations show I have been charged $54.00 in bounced fees for this check. Why? Check #2409 was written for payment on my Wells Fargo credit card and initially bounced after 9/18/03 presentation.



Now, if I have a negative balance why would they reverse the -$60.00 and credit me as paying on my account with check #2409? Please refer to page marked #1 and find check #2408. On this page marked #1 check #2408 is shown as bouncing and returned with a fee of $27.00 with a date of 9/18/03. Continue to page marked #5 (online statement). The presentation date has been changed to 9/22/03. This is the date of the second remittance. Why? I know why. Wells Fargo cannot put my account into a negative status until the second remittance comes back. Again, the second remittance was 9/22/03.

I must back up a bit and also state there is no evidence of the $500.00 check I cashed on 9/6/03 except on the page marked #1 and the two items have been combined (#223 -$500.00 & #227-$1,200.00) for a total of $1,700.00 Why?

The first check that is recorded as bouncing was dated as bouncing on both 9/15/03 and 9/16/03. This is check #2407. This is the check that is not recorded on any of the three online statements.



I believe in changing the presentation number on check #2408 from 9/18/03 to 9/22/03, Wells Fargo was trying to make the bounce transaction legal. This is fraud and tampering. Wells Fargo was in fact bouncing checks since 9/15/03 (9/16/03), seven days before the remittance. Wells Fargo shows no balance, but the returned checks and bounce check fees are listed (before 9/22/03).



I ask you Why did Wells Fargo go through all this trouble when they knew on 9/8/03 these checks were stolen and reported as such?

Please refer to online statement marked #9. Amounts do not add up. Account was frozen on 10/1/03, yet there are two OD level two charges, one for 10/1/03 and one for 10/2/03. Why?

I strongly believe all three online statements have been fabricated. If one compares pages marked #1, 1.5, 2, 3, and 10 the fabrication is evident. There differences are significant.

I ask you to please review these documents thoroughly, placing yourself in my position. This type of fraud should not be allowed to continue. I am a single, honest hardworking mother. I have no money and very assets. Wells Fargo is know for targeting those in my position. Can anyone help me?

Jenny,

I have been banking with Wells Fargo for 11 years, as well as having my mortgage with them.



I am appalled that you have a job working with customers. "They leave with their tail between their legs" statement is ridiculous.



Also, your personal dig to the original author was childish. As an employee of Wells Fargo, you should have offered constructive advice instead of attacking her.



If I ever get treated the way you descibe you treat your customers, I would report it to all the top management of the company.



By the way, I contribute to your paycheck.

Lisa - Corona, California



Dear Lisa,



I'm not a good keeper-of-the-books, and have paid many a OD fee. By the way I have banked with wells Fargo for more than four years, and the only real problem I have with their state of the art technology is that I cant get them to put a percentage of my check (which is directly deposited in to my checking account by my employer) in to my saving account. If I want a portion to go in to my savings account I have to specify a certain dollar amount.



As to the mistreatment you endured. Please realize that although those employees do represent the company they work for, they are not the only examples. Over the course of my experience with WF I have called customer support for a variety of things ranging from the a for mentioned transfer of funds to reporting credit card fraud perpetrated by one of my relatives. In each instance I received courteous, and timely help; even when what I wanted could not be done.



The credit card fraud was an instance where I had a family member [that happened to be living with me at the time] use my bankcard to purchase stuff over the net.



I found out, threw him out, and reported it to the bank. They had me send them a list of the charges I was disputing (on my bank statement) which I did. With in a few weeks they had reimbursed me fully, including the overdraft fees; this totaled over a thousand dollars.



I pray you will be able to work with WF to resolve the problems you speak of.



May God Richly Bless

Jenny, you sound exactly like you are PERFECT for Wells Fargo Bank!!! You're just what they're looking for....a cold, heartless, unethical, snippy little b***h.



For your information......



1. I had 5 other unhappy Wells Fargo Customers join me the 2nd weekend of protest. The reason you have "millions" (I doubt that) of "satisfied customers" is because they have been ripped off so long, they don't realize that "ethical" (that means fair and honest, Jenny) Banking institutions are still available.



2. I can check my account IMMEDIATELY online thru my cell phone.... some technology the "all-knowing Jenny" must not be aware of!



3. I have not written any "bad checks". All my problems are with Wells Fargo's deceptive "online balance" (their so-called state of the art technology) and using your check card. I have since changed to a credit union and Washington Mutual Bank (without changing the way I do my banking) and have had NO PROBLEMS with either.

Gee, could that be because they are not deceptive???



4. You need to re-read the last paragraph in my previous update. APPARENTLY, you don't understand how an ethical Banking institution does business.



5. As for Wells Fargo's (laughable) Happy Customers....Why does Rip-Off Report.com have more complaints against them than any other bank???



I was going to tell you to get an education and a "real" job, but Wells Fargo needs you and, you need them.



It's probably hard for you to find a job making $1.00-an-hour over the minimum wage. No business wants to employ someone as unsympathetic (key word, pathetic) as yourself.



Your "Lead Teller" position must make your family very proud.

Lisa,

I must say that your little message was quite hilarious.



I am an lead teller at Wells Fargo Bank (and d**n proud) and atleast once a day I get bitched and screamed at for people getting charged overdraft charges! when I straight up, tell them like it is, they usually walk out the door with their tail between their legs. If the OD charges are due to WF's error/fault, they will refund 100% of the charges(just a little FYI) Apparently, you must have a lot of OD's and not a very good relationship with WF, because they will honor everyone with a few good will reversals...



I think that your message is hilarious because:



a) YOU CAN'T SPEND MONEY YOU DON'T HAVE!! Just because you have an ATM and Check card, doesn't mean you have unlimited money.

b) you will be charged for spending money that you don't have. Overdraft fees are the deterrent for getting people to stop writing bad checks. Did you know that "knowingly writing bad checks" is illegal?! WOULD YOU WANT TO RECIEVE A BAD CHECK FROM SOMEONE?!?! Also...the bank makes A LOT of money charging people like yourself, OD fees. If it was your buisness, and you were making that kind of money, would you stop peoples transactions from going through when they didn't have enough money, and lose profits??

c)You don't get a "transaction approval code"..you get a recipt and if you read it closely, it will say something to the extent of "I agree to pay "company name" the above price for the business/service" and then you sign it, at which point you are legally bound to honor that contract.

d)Apparently you can not keep track of your finances, because you don't know how much is in your account to begin with, so you know what you can afford to spend (I don't have pity for you)

e) I find it amazing that you can use your debit card at a store, and then "IMMDIATELY" go online and see your balances. Hmmm...unless you have a pocket computer or something, I find that hard to believe.

f) It is not wells fargos responsibility to maintain your check register for you. If you cant do it yourself, I would suggest hiring an acountant or something. Then you wouldn't have to spend all the money you have on your OD's.

g) don't expect an answer from d**k. Hes too busy with other things than to listen to your "oh woe is me tale".



I find it absolutely hilarious that you included a picture in front of wells fargo, boycotting. How many people are there with you? Oh wait...just you. There are millions of other SATISFIED customers the bank with WF.



Your kids don't have enough money to eat huh? well maybe if you just stopped eating all the food, then they could eat. Goodnight, and I hope you will learn how to use a calculator, stop spending money that you don't have, and quit bitching and complaining about something that is your own d**n fault!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for your input, Karen.



Karen, you even thought that the bank"holds" these funds for the company until the bank processes the transaction. That's what I thought happened too!



I found out today that Wells Fargo only holds funds for 24hours(not stated in their disclosure) and then releases them back into the customers account. Very deceptive since most banks hold funds for at least 3 days, and most are 5 days.



But.....I'm not going to have that problem anymore. I just joined a credit union, and asked very specific questions. One thing I found out is that they hold funds out until the purchase clears their institution, so I won't have to worry about a confusing "available balance" on their online system.



I also don't have to pay $2.00 to talk to a teller, $4.00 to have my checks returned to me, $8.00 a month account maintainence fee, and various other hidden fees. "IF" I was to have a returned check, my fee would only be $17.00 and they have a daily limit to their charges of $34.00. They also have many more perks.



I just wish I had found out about credit unions earlier.



Thanks..



P.S. The picketing today went great!!!

When you use your debit card, the money is not automatically debited from your account. I believe what occurs is they notify your bank of the amount of the transaction and the bank then "holds" those funds for the company until the bank processes the transaction. If you are not recording these transactions in your checkbook and not keeping a current balance, this will cause you to risk overdrafts. I don't know about your bank, but my bank's ATM has an option of getting a mini-statement of the last 10 transactions. I use that function once a week or so to make sure that nothing funny goes on with my account. If you have that option, I would suggest that you make use of it. If you are not balancing your checkbook every month when you receive your statements, that will cause problems for you at some point.



It doesn't matter what the amount of a purchase is. It is the bank that dictates what the overdraft fees are. $30.00 is fairly standard although $25.00 is generally the norm nowadays. I would strongly suggest that you no longer use your debit card or the account it is connected to until you resolve this. Work off of cash for a while. You can go to Wells Fargo and request printouts of the times in question, which would show your balances after each transaction. They will charge you (acceptable and typical in the industry) probably $1.00 a page. But it will be worth it if you truly believe that you are not in the wrong here.

Wells Fargo hit us with another $30.00 fee! I have not used my atm card or written checks in over a week. When calling customer service to complain about the fee, I was told it was a bank error. They had neglected to charge me for "another" overdraft. Anyway.......



If anyone in the Corona/Riverside California area is interested in getting their stolen money's worth of satisfaction. I (and some friends), will be picketing in front of the Wells Fargo in Corona, CA (6th & Lincoln streets) this Saturday, June 28th.

We hope to have the media there. We are going to be handing out copies of Rip-Off Report stories involving Wells Fargo. Come on down!