10.13.08

Paying Too Much? How to Reduce International Transaction Fees

Posted in Credit Cards at 2:43 pm by Katia

With the exception of just a few, most major U.S. credit card companies charge international credit card fees, meaning every time you swipe your card abroad, you are charged an additional two to three percent.  Banks are charging these fees for converting purchases made in foreign currencies into U.S. dollars.  If you do not know how much your credit card company is charging for international transaction fees, contact customer service to find out.  The next step is finding out how you can minimize such fees.

 

While there are not many, you can select a card that does not charge international transaction fees.  The only major U.S. credit card companies that don’t charge are Capital One and Discover.  Keep in mind that Discover is not widely used or accepted abroad.

 

You can use a debit card instead of a credit card, which will transfer the money from your bank account in real-time.  There are, however, some drawbacks with using a debit card.  Some merchants can only process cards as credit cards, regardless if you have a debit card.  You can also dispute fraudulent charges on credit cards – no such luck with debit. 

 

Another option is to simply use an ATM.  Most banks do not have a transaction fee for withdrawals.  Plus, you’re likely to get a better foreign exchange rate from your bank than an exchange booth.

 

Ultimately, the best way to completely avoid international transaction fees is to select a card that does not charge them – you’ll get the security of a credit card without the added expenses.  The only major U.S. credit card companies that don’t charge are Capital One and Discover.  Keep in mind that Discover is not widely used or accepted abroad.

 

 

 

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