I helped a Mexican start an account at BBVA Compass Bank. I instructed the teller, I want her to have a non-interest bearing free checking account, and no savings account. Are there any fees?
"No"
She then spoke to the lady in spanish which I do not understand and sold her two accounts with an insurance protection with a monthly fee.
Later, when we discovered the fees I tried to close the account. I was told the account could not be closed unless she physically came to the bank and closed the account. She also could not cancel the insurance unless she was there in person.
Since she is waiting on immigration paperwork, she cannot cross the border maybe for a year.
During this time the fees will eat everything in her account. I went to the bank again and asked if the fees could take the account below zero and then charge her daily NSF fees even if she had no activity on the account. The lady said yes, and the fees are substantial. Even if she were never overdrawn.
Later I opened an account in my name to see if I would be sold fee based products after I had specifically refused them. I was!!! I was able to cancel immediately but still had to pay two months charges "the minimum." And if for some reason I could not make it to the bank this "insurance" could end up charging me several hundred in charges.
Can you count how many laws are being broken here???
The Dr.in Mexico is still trying to close the account. But I'm sure this affects hundreds. After all, banks have to make a living.
Here is a question to ask your bank. "If there are 4 dollars in my account and my "free" checking charges me an insurance fee of 5 dollars How much in fees will I have to pay if I do nothing for 30 days?" Make sure to get their answer in writing. It will shock you.
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