Forum Post: Banker on banking

First off, let me say I applaud the movement. The courage, stamina and conviction of the men and women who have the guts to try to make a difference. I am banker. At the moment, a very upset banker. I work for small 'neighborhood' bank which has grown in the last couple of years. This bank has built its reputation on being a small town bank, a handshake and smile bank. Well, all that's changed. Fees... fees... fees. Today an 81 year old woman came into the bank. She was upset because her savings account incurred $35.00 worth of fees for being below the minimum balance requirement. Requirement limit was increased in January from $100 to $500, with a $5.00 month penalty. Many of our customers never read the mailing, most likely assuming it was an advertisement. The elderly especially are forgetful. This woman had been banking with us since 1987, nearly 25 years. She has very little money in both checking and savings. I tried to get the manager to approve a full refund of $35, but only got permission to refund $15. I gave the refund and adverised the customer to close her account, which she did. It would cost her more money to keep it. Imagine, being charged to save your money while only earning .10% interest. What a disgrace that this 'neighborhood' bank could not refund an 81 year old woman $35! Our elderly need to be respected. It's hard enough for them to scrape by. The only reason why the limit was raised was so that the bank could collect more in fees from the unsuspecting. I am sick at heart and ashamed. I feel so bad, like I work for a crook. I sold my bank stock and I will be one of the ones to Remember... Remember the 5th of November. I pray enough people band together to make it a day the Banks remember too. Ladyliberty16