Seven fees you should never pay

Some fees and taxes are inevitable. Whether you're shopping for groceries, concert tickets, or cars, it's common to pay more than what the sticker price says. We live in a world where sales tax, subscription fees, recycling fees, initiation fees, handling fees, and usage fees are the norm. While you can do your best to avoid these costs, your best strategy is to be prepared.

Thankfully, there are some fees you can avoid altogether. Here we take a look at some of the easiest fees to avoid.

1. ATM Transaction Fees

At some machines, ATM fees can be as high as $2.00 per transaction. Instead of giving into these fees, try to withdraw your money ahead of time and be sure to use your bank's ATM. When possible, make a purchase with your debit card to get cash back.

2. Credit Card Interest

If you're spending beyond your means, it's time to make some serious life changes. When you pay credit card interest, you're paying fees on top of what you're already paying for your purchases. The problem is, you get absolutely nothing for the interest and fees you pay when using a credit card - except the ability to put yourself even deep in debt.

3. Shipping

You may be surprised to learn that some online sellers make a profit on shipping fees. This means that online shoppers need to be be vigilant about what they pay for shipping. Whenever possible, shop with retailers who offer free or low-cost standard shipping and returns, and always look for free shipping coupon codes when you shop. If you are shopping on eBay or buying from another smaller seller, you can always try to negotiate a shipping discount as well.

4. Gym Membership Fees

On top of your monthly rate, some gyms charge initiation or processing fees. Shop around for gyms that don't require this expense, look for coupons or try to negotiate. Try your best to get this fee waived.

5. Over-the-Top Parking Fees

Depending on where you live, these fees may be unavoidable. However, if there's free parking nearby, it's worth a walk to save the money - plus it's good for you! Also, if you're shopping or eating at a restaurant, pay attention to whether you can validate your parking pass.

6. Late Fees

Keep track of all of your accounts to make sure that your payments are all on time. Whenever possible, set up automatic bill payments. If you do forget to make a payment, call the service to apologise. You may be able to get your fee waived. While a fee waiver isn't guaranteed, it doesn't hurt to try.

7. Fees for Subscriptions You Don't Use

We're human - we get lazy. Regardless, our laziness should never cost us money. Next time you have a moment, go through your credit card statement to double check whether you're paying for services that you're no longer using. If so, cut the subscription immediately. Even if it's a few dollars, those funds will add up quickly.

The Bottom Line

While some fees are unavoidable, you can cut many others right out of your life. Even a few dollars here and there will add up, so make sure that you're being as efficient as possible with your spending.

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