CHARLOTTE - Banks are losing millions because people aren't paying their credit card bills. Now, some banks are taking drastic action. Having a credit card comes with some catches, even if you pay your card off.
The next time your mail shows up with a letter from the credit card company, you may want to open it. Several companies are sending early Christmas presents this year, more like coal actually.
You may find your card has an interest rate hike, new or increased fees, a lower credit limit or something else that will cost you more; even if you pay off your balance every month!
If you always pay off your balance each month, they're not making any money on you. That's why starting in January, Bank of America will charge some customers an annual fee of $29 to $99.
Other banks will charge you if you don't put more than a specific amount on your card each year, often thousands of dollars.
These fees are in response to credit card legislation that will set new restrictions on card issuers starting in February. ( read the new regulations )
Don't want to pay the fee or the charges? You could close the account, but Tom Bartholomy of the Better Business Bureau says that's not a good option for everyone.
"If you've got kind of iffy credit, and you go and close this account and roll that balance, that can adversely affect your credit," says Bartholomy.
He recommends trying to negotiate first. "Say, I've been a customer of yours for 10 years, I've got all my other accounts at your bank, and I'm willing to move everything if this is the way you're gonna play." At least one lady was able to get Bank of America to cut her interest rate. ( check out the story )
Here's more information on how to "cut deals" on credit card balances .
And, if your in over your head, beware of companies willing to repair your credit. Bartholomy says, "If they're charging an upfront fee for that, it's against the law."
Instead, look into local non-profit companies that are BBB-approved.