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“When Savings Turn Negative: The Hidden Cost of Minimum Balance Penalties”

“Negative balances aren’t just unfair they’re against RBI’s mandate.”

The Issuel: Imagine keeping ₹10,000 in your account and waking up to see it reduced to -₹500. That’s what some banks still do by charging harsh minimum balance penalties, despite RBI’s clear rule that such deductions must not push accounts into negative balance.

 Why This Matters: Direct Financial Loss: Penalties eat into your savings. Credit Risk: Negative balances can affect credit history.

Mental Stress: Unexpected charges add financial anxiety.

✅ Action Points for Investors

  1. Track balances like you track your mobile battery.
  2. Dispute unfair charges escalate to the Banking Ombudsman if needed.
  3. Choose smarter PSU banks and some private banks have scrapped such practices.

Key Takeaways

Small leaks sink big ships staying alert protects both wealth and peace of mind.

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