You trust your bank. You deposit your hard-earned money expecting safety, service, and ease.
But what if your bank is silently charging you hundreds—or even thousands—of rupees each year?
You’re not alone.
From SMS alerts to inactivity fees, many Indians are unknowingly paying hidden bank charges they never explicitly agreed to.
Common Hidden Bank Charges (That Most People Miss)
1️⃣ SMS Alert Charges
Most banks charge ₹15–₹25+ every quarter for SMS alerts—even if you’ve shifted to app-based notifications.
2️⃣ ATM Usage Fees
More than 5 ATM withdrawals (own bank): ₹20 per transaction
More than 3 ATM withdrawals (other banks): ₹20–₹25 per transaction
You’re paying just to access your money.
3️⃣ Minimum Balance Penalty
Fail to maintain the required minimum balance? Expect ₹150–₹600 deduction monthly in some accounts.
4️⃣ Dormant Account Charges
No transactions for 12–24 months? Your account could be marked inactive and attract reactivation charges.
5️⃣ Cheque Book Fees
Some banks now charge for cheque books beyond the first 10–25 leaves.
6️⃣ Branch Visit Charges
Some private banks levy ₹50–₹150 for services you can do online—for example, passbook updates or cash deposits over the counter.
7️⃣ Statement & Document Requests
Need a duplicate statement or bank certificate? You might be charged ₹100–₹300 per request.
Real-Life Example: Silent Drain
Ravi from Chennai kept ₹5,000 in his savings account for emergencies. Over 3 years, his bank charged:
₹300 for SMS alerts
₹720 for low balance
₹180 for ATM overuse
₹150 for reactivating dormant status
Total loss: ₹1,350—over 25% of his balance, gone quietly.
How to Protect Yourself
✅ 1. Read the Fine Print
Banks legally list all charges on their websites. Always check the Schedule of Charges before opening an account.
✅ 2. Switch to Zero Balance Accounts
Accounts like Jan Dhan, Digital Savings, or Basic Savings Bank Deposit Accounts (BSBDA) offer limited services without penalties.
✅ 3. Use UPI & Online Banking
Avoid unnecessary branch visits or ATM withdrawals. UPI is free and seamless.
✅ 4. Disable Paper Statements
Opt for e-statements and mobile banking to avoid service charges.
✅ 5. Monitor Regularly
Use your bank app to check for small deductions—₹15 here, ₹25 there—it adds up fast.
FAQs
1. Can I get a refund for hidden charges?
Yes, in some cases. If it’s a first-time charge or wasn’t clearly communicated, file a complaint with the bank or escalate to RBI Ombudsman.
2. Which Indian banks have the most hidden charges?
Private banks generally have more service-based charges, while PSU banks have fewer but still charge for inactivity and cheques.
3. How can senior citizens avoid these charges?
Senior citizen accounts often waive many service charges. Opt for senior-friendly savings accounts with benefits.
4. Are digital-only banks better?
Yes. Neobanks often have zero-fee models and greater transparency. But always check reviews and RBI guidelines.
Final Thought
You earn every rupee. Don't let your bank silently take it back.
Small hidden charges = Big silent losses.
Review. React. Reclaim.
Start today by checking your last 6 months’ bank statements—you may be surprised by what you find.
Published on : 31st July
Published by : SMITA
www.vizzve.com || www.vizzveservices.com
Follow us on social media: Facebook || Linkedin || Instagram
🛡 Powered by Vizzve Financial
RBI-Registered Loan Partner | 10 Lakh+ Customers | ₹600 Cr+ Disbursed