If you think your bank made a mistake or are having a disagreement with them, it may seem like the problem will never be solved. Even though it can be hard to solve banking disputes, if you take the right steps, you can do so fairly and without making your relationship with your bank worse.
What is at odds?
There are many things that could go wrong and lead to a fight with your bank. You might be sure you didn't make a payment on your account, or you might think your bank charged you a penalty fee in error. Your bank could have made a mistake in figuring out your balance or taken money out of your account. No matter what the problem is, you need to keep your cool and follow certain steps.
Write things down.
If you have a problem with your bank or if they have a problem with you, make sure you get everything in writing, including the steps and reasons for them. If your bank doesn't write to you, write them a letter and tell them what's going on. Putting things in writing is often a good way to clear up misunderstandings and prepare for mediation.
Check the fine print.
If you have a problem with your bank, read all of its policies carefully before you complain. It's possible that your bank is in the right or that the steps it took were the right ones. Before you start to question something, make sure you have a case.
Don't act like a bully.
If you are rude, mean, or violent to your bank or its employees, they are not likely to listen to you, no matter how right you are. It could also mean that you have to move all of your accounts to a different bank. Even if the situation is very frustrating, stay calm and reasonable. This will make it much more likely that people will listen to you.
Talk to each other
If you can't settle a disagreement in writing or over the phone, try to meet with your bank manager or another bank employee in person. This will help you figure out what the problem is and, hopefully, find a solution that works for both of you.
The business of banking
Remember that it's not about you if a decision goes for or against you. Banking is a business, so they will probably put their own needs before yours. But if they can fix the problem, they will almost always do so because they want to keep you as a customer.
If you're unhappy, get help.
If you have tried to negotiate with your bank and are still unhappy, you should talk to a financial advisor or a company that helps with banking disputes. Most disagreements can be solved with a letter or phone call, but some are more complicated and may take longer to settle. If you are patient and can back up your claim with proof, you will probably get the decision you want.
