Smaller credit card issuers have not jumped on the fee bandwagon. Community banks are much more service-oriented. Many of them probably view some of those tactics as almost anti-consumer. A card customer would have to exceed a credit limit by 10 percent before a community bank would charge a fee. Community banks also accept card payments 10 to 15 days after due dates without penalties.
Credit unions give card customers plenty of leeway as well.
A credit union will accept a card payment 15 days after a due date without penalty. Despite the increased profits in the short term, some experts wonder if the credit card issuers will pay in the long run for their efforts to increase fee income. That's kind of a dangerous game they're playing. U.S. Highway 1, North Palm Beach, Fl. Bankrate Inc. all rights reserved.