Checks Direct

Don't buy checks from the bank. You can save up to 50 percent of what they charge by ordering through an independent source like Current, 800-426-0822.

Credit Unions

Many credit unions offer low or no fee checking accounts and free checks too. If there's any way you can qualify, join a credit union. Most credit unions welcome spouses, children, brothers, sisters, and parents of the member. You will enjoy federally-insured deposits and low-interest auto loans. And you'll earn higher than bank interest rates on your savings accounts.

Shop around

Switch to a smaller, locally owned bank. The fee structure will likely be lower and some services will actually be offered at no cost, such as free checking, free checks, etc.

You have to ask

If you receive a new credit card with a remarkably lower interest rate, call your current credit card company and tell them about this competing offer. You could receive an on-the-spot interest rate reduction. You'll wonder why you didn't call sooner.

Credit card applications

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