Even when fees are disclosed, there is something about them that is both irritating and frustrating. Why not show the total price upfront, with the fees clearly identified?
When consumers don't notice the buried charges until right before payment, or when fees are kept out of sight for months on end, the sense of being ripped off is palpable.
Here are 16 fees consumers may not see coming — or pay without knowing it.
Unauthorized phone charges
Even legitimate cellphone fees can be confusing and annoying, but sometimes unauthorized fees are added to the bill as well, a practice called "cramming." Look for and investigate fees listed with vague descriptions such as "calling plan" or "membership." Federal laws prohibit phone companies from using misleading language to describe services and to identify the service provider that's charging each item on the bill.
If something doesn't check out, the Federal Communications Commission has advice on how consumers can protect themselves and file a complaint.
Modem or router rental
The modems or routers rented out by internet service providers may be necessary, but the recurring monthly rental fee is easy to forget and may go on long after the value of the device has been paid.
Spend a little up front to buy the hardware and avoid the extra monthly charge. The purchase can often pay for itself in less than a year.
Closing costs
First-time homebuyers agree on a price but can be caught unaware by all the expenses required to finalize the purchase. They can't necessarily be avoided, but some can be decreased by shopping around, and sellers sometimes can be convinced to pay part of the closing costs.
A loan estimate form must be given to borrowers within three business days after the lender has received a loan application. Page 2 of the form lists several services the lender requires (borrowers still may be able to save by choosing a different lender) and several costs that borrowers can shop for if they move forward with the lender.
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