How to Get Overdraft Fees Waived at Chase

Getting hit with an overdraft fee can feel like adding insult to injury. Your account has already run out of money, and you’re now being charged even more.

But did you know that some banks may reverse overdraft fees if you ask? Here’s how to get overdraft fees waived at Chase.

Can Chase waive overdraft fees?

Yes. If your checking account comes with Chase Overdraft Assist, you may be able to reverse an overdraft fee if you bring the overdrafted amount to less than $50. If this isn’t an option, call a Chase representative: Chase may extend a one-time fee waiver as a courtesy.

How to get overdraft fees waived at Chase

You may or may not be able to get a Chase overdraft fee refund, but the only way to find out is to ask in one of three ways:

• By phone. Often the fastest way to request an overdraft fee refund.
• In person. If you live near a Chase branch, ask a representative behind the counter for a fee waiver.
• Through the Chase app. The app’s secure messaging feature allows you to ask questions about your account.

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How much are overdraft fees at Chase?

Not all banks have the same policy when it comes to overdrafts. Here’s how they work at Chase:

• Standard overdraft fees of $34 are charged if your account overdraws by more than $50
• Overdraft fees are capped at $102 a day (three $34 transactions)

Most Chase checking accounts come with Chase Overdraft Assist, which offers stronger overdraft fee protection:

• If you’re overdrawn by less than $50 by 11 p.m. ET, you aren’t charged a fee
• If you’re overdrawn by more than $50 but bring the overdrafted amount under $50 by the end of the next business day, you aren’t charged
• You aren’t charged overdraft fees for transactions of $5 or less

Chase says that although it offers Overdraft Assist with most of its checking accounts, the service doesn’t come with these ones:

• Chase Secure Checking
• Chase First Checking
• Chase High School Checking

If your account is eligible for Chase Overdraft Assist, you don’t have to sign up for it separately. You’re automatically enrolled when you open your account.

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Tips to increase your chances of getting a fee waived

These strategies might help you successfully get your overdraft fee waived:

Take advantage of the grace period

If you have Chase Overdraft Assist and your account is overdrawn by more than $50, deposit more funds if possible. If you can at least make the overdrafted amount less than $50 by the end of the next business day, you won’t be charged a fee.

Mention your account standing, history with the company, or both

If you’re a long-time customer and this is your first overdraft, tell the representative. Banks are often more willing to extend favors to loyal customers.

Get in touch quickly

If you wait several days before getting in touch, the representative you talk to might think that reversing the fee isn’t particularly important to you. Call within 24 to 48 hours after you see the overdraft fee posted to your account.

Ask politely

Good manners can go a long way. If you’re friendly and make it clear that you’re asking a favor, the representative you’re talking to might be more inclined to grant your request.

How to avoid Chase overdraft fees in the future

You might be successful in getting a one-time Chase overdraft fee refund. After, consider taking steps to reduce your risk of future overdrafts.

Set up low balance alerts

It’s easy to lose track of your checking account balance, especially if most of your bills are on autopay. Set up low balance alerts through your online banking account to get a text or email when your balance drops below a specific threshold, like $100 or $200.

Link a backup account for overdraft protection

If you have a savings account or credit line with Chase, linking it to your checking account is a way to avoid overdraft fees. If there isn’t enough in your checking account to cover a transaction, your secondary account can cover the rest.

Opt out of overdraft coverage for debit transactions

Overdraft fees can add up quickly, especially if you can’t immediately add more money to your account. If you’re worried about future overdraft fees, you might want to opt out of overdraft coverage. Keep in mind that any debit transaction your checking account can’t cover will be declined.

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Want to build your finances and your credit?

An overdraft fee itself won’t harm your credit. The risk is what happens next: If the overdraft leaves an autopay bouncing or a bill unpaid, that late payment does hit your report. And the thinner your credit file, the more damage it can do.

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