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Many customers are surprised to discover a range of fees attached to what they assumed was a simple, free chequing account. Monthly maintenance fees are common unless you maintain a minimum balance, which can be several thousand dollars depending on the bank and account type. On top of that, most accounts include only a limited number of free transactions each month, such as debit purchases, bill payments, or e-transfers; going over that limit typically triggers a per-transaction charge. Using an automated teller machine that does not belong to your bank almost always results in a fee, sometimes charged by both your own bank and the machine's owner, which can add up quickly if you travel or bank on the go. Overdraft protection, while convenient for avoiding declined payments, usually carries its own monthly fee plus interest charges on any negative balance. Before choosing an account, it is worth comparing the fee schedules of several banks and asking directly about ways to waive monthly fees, such as setting up direct deposit or being a student. Reading the full list of fees, not just the advertised highlights, can save account holders a meaningful amount of money every year.