How to Avoid Overdrafts

Money Management Tips & Tools

Here are a few tips to help you manage your account to avoid NSF Paid Item Fees (Overdraft Fees):

• Sign up for Direct Deposit - Make sure you have funds in your account as soon as possible with Direct Deposit. Deposits including paychecks and any other regular payments you receive (like government payments or child support) can be made available faster with Direct Deposit.

• Keep your account register current - Record your transactions in your register right away and update your account balance. Be sure to record all ATM and debit card transactions, plus fees and any online purchases.

• Track automatic deductions - Remember to record all automatic payments, transfers or loan payments.

• Verify your deposits - Make sure your deposits have been credited to your account before you make a debit card purchase or write a check.

• Keep a balance cushion - One way to safeguard your account against overdrafts is to keep an extra “cushion” of money in your checking account so that your account never falls below. Set up an online alert letting you know when your balance falls below your cushion so you can make a deposit, transfer money or avoid additional purchases that might result in a fee.

•Monitor your account balance - You should check your account balance routinely – there are many convenient ways to access your balance information. You can check your account online at www.bediasbank.com, call the automated service at (936) 395-0200 or perform a balance inquiry at one of our ATMs.  

•Set up account alerts - The First State Bank of Bedias now offers a variety of email and text message alerts to help account holders stay on top of their account balances and transactions.  

•Minimize ATM fees - You can avoid ATM fees by using our ATMs whenever possible and by asking for cash back on your debit card purchases.  

•Link your Savings and Checking - If the accounts are linked and you do not have enough in your checking to cover a transaction, the bank will transfer funds from savings to cover the difference. This option is beneficial only if you have enough money in the linked savings account.