EDINBURGH, Scotland, June 17 (UPI) -- Scottish bank customers angry at fees charged for a number of services have begun demanding a refund or threatening small claims court action.
Tens of thousands of dollars have been returned to customers by banks willing to avoid court or those who lost at court, The Scotsman reported Saturday.
Although fees for bounced checks, missed payments and overdrafts are outlined in account or loan terms, the 1999 Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations say anything above $22 is too much.
Thousands of court actions are filed each month, with consumer advocacy groups giving suggestions and helping with the claims.
Dave Smith, co-founder of the Consumer Action Group, said the fees being charged add to profit more than recover costs.
He encourages customers to write letters to banks seeking refunds for past fees surpassing the legal amount. If a second letter doesn't work then head to court, he said.
