Q: What is the most banks can charge for overdraft fees? It seems like I pay a lot when I overdraft.

A: If you pay an overdraft of $35 each time you overdraw your checking account, you may wonder if that is all you are going to have to pay, or if there is a possibility you may have to pay more. Since federal law does not establish a maximum overdraft fee, the possibility that this can happen does exist; however, usually $35 is the highest most banks and financial institutions go.

You now have the choice of opting-out of overdraft fees. If you had been paying them in the past, and no longer wish to do so, your bank will help you with the opt-out process. Don’t be surprised, though, if your bank tries to keep you from doing this. Some will, while others will abide by your wishes graciously, and not ask you to continue paying the overdraft fee.

If you think your bank is charging too much of an overdraft fee, you may want to check around with other banks or financial institutions. Their fees may be much lower, or they may charge any overdraft fee at all. Just that alone may persuade your bank to lower its overdraft fee.

The best way to avoid any overdraft fee, large or small, is to make sure they is or will be enough money in the bank before you write the check or swipe that debit or credit card.