15 most hated fees
Stand up to the pesky charges -- from checked-bag costs to retirement plan expenses -- that bug you the most.
2. Parting with cash to close your HELOC
What it costs: $$$--$$$$
What you're mad about: Lenders have been quick to freeze or slash borrowers' home-equity lines of credit in the past few years. But if you dare close down a line yourself within the first three to four years of opening it, you'll pay from $250 to $700. Two-thirds of all lenders charge such fees, says Keith Gumbinger of HSH. He says it's because the creditor has to absorb certain closing costs.
How to fight back: Keep the line open, even if you don't plan to use it. If you must close the line -- say, because you want to refinance your mortgage -- ask your lender to waive the fee. If the same lender has your HELOC and your new mortgage, it may comply.
NEXT: Forking over new charges for overdrafts
What you're mad about: Lenders have been quick to freeze or slash borrowers' home-equity lines of credit in the past few years. But if you dare close down a line yourself within the first three to four years of opening it, you'll pay from $250 to $700. Two-thirds of all lenders charge such fees, says Keith Gumbinger of HSH. He says it's because the creditor has to absorb certain closing costs.
How to fight back: Keep the line open, even if you don't plan to use it. If you must close the line -- say, because you want to refinance your mortgage -- ask your lender to waive the fee. If the same lender has your HELOC and your new mortgage, it may comply.
NEXT: Forking over new charges for overdrafts
Last updated June 11 2010: 3:40 PM ET
