Routing # 321076470

How to Avoid Overdrafts and NSF Fees

We know life happens, and unexpected expenses come up. We’re here to help you stay on top of your finances and avoid overdrafts and NSF (Non-Sufficient Funds) fees. Explore the topics and resources below to understand more about these fees and how to steer clear of them.

What you need to know

What is an overdraft?

An overdraft occurs when you spend more money than you have in your account. For example, if someone has $20 in their checking account and charges $30 with their debit card for gas, their account will be overdrawn by $10.

What is an NSF?

Without some form of overdraft protection, when an account becomes overdrawn, it creates a negative balance, or an NSF (Non-Sufficient Funds) event. This means there aren’t enough funds in the account to cover the transaction.

What is overdraft protection?

When you assign an account to be your overdraft account, then link it to your checking account, in the event of an overdraft, the funds needed to complete the transaction are withdrawn from your overdraft account and the transaction processes.

More about overdrafts
If you attempt to make a transaction which will result in an overdraft, under Patelco’s Standard Overdraft Practices, we may at our sole discretion decline the transaction, or we may pay for it using our own funds. When Patelco advances the funds on your behalf, the transaction is completed but results in a negative balance in your account. This can result in a Paid NSF fee.1

Here’s how to protect your accounts

1

Set Up Alerts

Set a low balance alert and get notified when your balance dips below a set amount. Log in to the Mobile App, select Account Services, choose Account Alerts, select Accounts, and then Balance.

2

Get Instant BackUp™

If you’re not already enrolled, consider an Instant BackUp™ Line of Credit. This provides you with a $500 credit line to cover overdrafts. Enrolling takes just a few minutes. Visit here to learn more.

3

Link Your Accounts

Link a Patelco savings account or line of credit to provide overdraft protection for your checking account. Log in to Patelco Online™, choose Account Services, then select Overdraft Protection to choose the account you want to use for your protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re here to help

Managing your finances is easier with the right tools and resources. Visit our Member Relief and Support Center for expert tips, educational resources, and personalized support to help you stay financially strong.

1 There is a $28 Paid NSF fee per NSF transaction. For more information, please see the NSF Transactions section of the Patelco Member Handbook.

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