After an increase of around 3% observed between 2024 and 2025, the first price schedules already published for 2026 suggest further increases on certain bank fees. These would fall within a range comparable to that observed in recent years, around a few points.
Indeed, the year 2026 is expected to be marked by a increase in fixed costs. In 2025, a customer was already paying around 220 euros per year in bank feesin a traditional bank. For certain profiles, the bill even exceeds 300 euros. In fact, the account keepinguntil now free, will be billed 20 to 35 euros per yearand the bank cards will reach 45-50 euros for a classic and more 130 euros for a premium. However, the banking incidents remain the most expensive. An intervention fee can reach 8 euros per operationwithin the limit of 80 euros per month and one direct debit rejection is billed up to 20 euros. For affected customers, the bill can quickly climb.
Diverting increases is possible
THE choice of banking institution constitutes a first lever to contain the increase in costs. THE online banks and neobanks generally have zero or very low account maintenance fees, with free cards subject to conditions. For an incident-free customer, theannual saving can reach 150 to 200 euros. In traditional networks, certain offers without monthly fees also exist, subject to specific criteria such as regular payments or maintaining a minimum balance.
THE cooperative or mutual banks also adopt, in certain cases, a more moderate pricing policy. THE management method of the account also influences the fees. Transactions carried out in branches often generate additional costs, while transfers, card management or oppositions via applications help to limit them.
This cost control extends to ongoing costs. SEPA transfers made online remain free and alerts via app can replace paid SMS. THE free cards under conditions also make it possible to reduce the bill and the use of distributors in the same network limits additional costs. Furthermore, the centralization of accounts completes this logic and reduces management or inactivity costs.
Contrary to popular belief, the negotiation remains possible. Request an exemption of certain fees, reviewing a service package or presenting a competing offer can result in discounts, particularly for loyal customers.
