Joseph Dillard

There are so many offers out about opening accounts and borrowing money. Some of us are content with what we have, while others don’t have anything and are not sure where to begin. For others the offers seem too good to pass up. Especially when it’s free money! Is it really free? How do you really know? Read the fine print. Financial institutions are required to make disclosures for all offers so consumers can understand exactly how much a product costs and what benefit they are receiving.

Unfortunately, many consumers fail to read the fine print and end up with less than they bargained for. Notice that the offers always seem like you are getting something for nothing. Think about it. How can the financial institution stay in business if they gave everyone something for nothing? It’s not going to happen. It’s more like, you give them something and then they will give you something. It may or may not be worth it to you. How do you find out? You have to read the fine print and ask questions.

There is not a shortage of places that want your money. You have to decide which one(s) is/are best for you. Do they charge fees? If so, how much? Do they waive fees? If so, what do you need to do to get fees waived? If not, is it worth it to pay fees? Is there somewhere else that is better for you? Most, if not all, of these questions can be answered by reading the fine print. That’s part of your responsibility. Switching accounts today is easier than it used to be. However, sometimes you end up in a worse account chasing after “free” money. When you see an offer too good to pass up, read the fine print. Then you’ll know for sure. All the best. Peace and blessings.

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