Overdraft Fee Class Action Lawsuits Lawyers

What Are Overdraft Fees?

Overdraft fees are charges imposed by banks when an account lacks sufficient funds to cover a transaction, but the bank processes it anyway. The bank then charges the account holder a penalty, often $35 or more per transaction. These fees can quickly add up, leaving consumers trapped in a cycle of debt over a few minor purchases.

While banks originally marketed overdraft protection as a convenience, many banks have turned it into a massive profit machine at the expense of their customers.

Unfair Overdraft Fee Practices

Banks claim overdraft fees are necessary, but in reality, many financial institutions use manipulative tactics to rack up fees unfairly. Some of the most common predatory overdraft practices include:

• Transaction reordering: Instead of processing transactions chronologically, some banks reorder them from largest to smallest, which drains your balance faster, causing multiple overdraft fees when only one should have applied.
• Multiple fees on a single transaction: Some banks charge multiple overdraft fees for the same item, especially if it’s retried for payment.
• Deceptive overdraft protection enrollment: Many customers are automatically opted into overdraft protection without their knowledge, leading to unexpected fees.
• Unclear fee disclosures: Banks often bury their overdraft policies in fine print, making it difficult for customers to understand when they will be charged.

If any of this sounds familiar, you may have a case against your bank.

Who Is Eligible to Join an Overdraft Fee Class Action Lawsuit?

You may be eligible to join the lawsuit if:

• You were charged excessive or repeated overdraft fees.
• Your bank reordered transactions to maximize overdraft charges.
• You were charged multiple fees for the same transaction.
• You were opted into overdraft protection without clear consent.
• Your bank’s overdraft policies were misleading or deceptive.

Many major banks and credit unions have already faced lawsuits over these practices. If you’ve been hit with unfair fees, now is the time to act.

How CohenMalad, LLP Can Help You Pursue Compensation

Banks count on customers not knowing their rights or assuming there’s nothing they can do. That’s where we come in.

At CohenMalad, LLP, our accomplished team fights for consumers who have been wronged by financial institutions. When you join an overdraft fee class action, you’re not just fighting for your own compensation; you’re sending a message that these abusive practices won’t be tolerated.

We handle all aspects of the case, from investigating bank policies to negotiating settlements or taking the fight to court. There are no upfront costs and no hassle — just experienced attorneys working to get you the money you deserve.

Compensation Available in Overdraft Fee Class Action Lawsuits

If the lawsuit is successful, class members may be eligible to recover:

• Refunds of wrongfully charged overdraft fees: Getting your money back for unfair fees imposed by your bank.
• Additional damages: Compensation for financial hardship caused by excessive overdraft charges.
• Changes to bank policies: Forcing banks to change deceptive overdraft practices, preventing future abuse.

While settlement amounts vary, these lawsuits have resulted in millions of dollars in refunds for bank customers across the country.

The Legal Process for Filing a Class Action Lawsuit

Joining a class action lawsuit is simple, and there’s no risk to you. Here’s how it works:

1. Case review: Contact us, and we’ll evaluate whether you qualify to join an existing class action or start a new one.
2. Class action filing: If you’re eligible, we’ll include you in the lawsuit against the bank.
3. Settlement or trial: Our team fights for the best possible outcome, whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom litigation.
4. Compensation distribution: If the lawsuit is successful, eligible participants receive their share of the settlement.

You don’t need to worry about the paperwork and deadlines once you sign up. We’ll handle the legal details on your behalf.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Overdraft Fee Class Action Lawsuits

There are deadlines for filing claims, and waiting too long could mean losing your chance to recover compensation. The statute of limitations varies by state and by the specifics of your case, so it’s crucial to act quickly.

If you believe you’ve been charged unfair overdraft fees, contact us immediately to protect your rights and ensure you don’t miss your opportunity to join the lawsuit.