For many customers, a surprising change is on the way that could soon take a bigger bite out of their wallets.

Wells Fargo confirmed that its most popular checking account will begin charging a $15 monthly fee this fall. That’s a $5 jump from the current $10 fee, and it’s got a lot of folks talking (and grumbling).

The increase, which kicks in just before the holiday season, means account holders could see a jump of 50% in their monthly costs.

But the good news is there are updated ways to avoid paying it—if you know the rules.


Wells Fargo announced that, beginning with fee periods starting on or after November 29, 2025, the monthly service fee for Everyday Checking accounts will increase to $15.

That’s a 50% hike, and for many, it’s not pocket change—especially if you’re on a fixed income or watching your spending in retirement.

But there’s a silver lining: Wells Fargo is also updating the ways you can dodge this fee, and some of the new options might work in your favor.

How to Dodge the $15 Fee: The New Rules​

Let’s get right to the good stuff. To avoid the $15 monthly service fee, you only need to meet one of the following five criteria each month:

1. Direct Deposit: Make $500 or more in eligible electronic direct deposits each month. This includes things like Social Security, pension payments, or paychecks.
2. Minimum Daily Balance: Keep at least $1,500 in your Everyday Checking account every single day of the fee period. (Note: This is up from the previous $500 minimum, so double-check your balances!)
3. Age Perk: If the primary account holder is between 17 and 24 years old, the fee is automatically waived. (A nice break for grandkids or younger family members, but not much help for most of us.)
4. Military Direct Deposit: Have a qualifying monthly non-civilian military direct deposit as part of the Wells Fargo Worldwide Military Banking program.
5. Big Balances: Maintain $5,000 or more in combined deposit and investment balances with Wells Fargo. This includes savings, CDs, and eligible investment accounts.

Wells Fargo will check your eligibility for the $5,000 balance waiver on the last day of each fee period, so if you’re close, keep an eye on your balances as the month wraps up.

Your “fee period” is basically your monthly account cycle. You can find the exact dates in the Monthly Service Fee Summary section of your statement or online banking portal. It’s worth checking, especially if you’re planning to move money around to meet one of the waiver requirements.


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Don’t Forget the Bonus: $200 Up for Grabs​

If you’re considering a new credit card, Wells Fargo is offering a $200 sign-up bonus for its Active Cash Card this fall. Spend $500 in the first three months, and you’ll get $200 as a statement credit.

That’s a pretty generous offer compared to some other cards, which require much higher spending to qualify for a bonus.

Just remember: Only use the card for purchases you were already planning to make, and pay off the balance right away to avoid interest charges. That way, the bonus is truly “free” money.


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Wells Fargo isn’t the only bank with sign-up bonuses and rewards. Chase, for example, is offering $200 to certain cardholders, plus 1.5% cash back on all purchases.

Some cards even offer perks like streaming service credits or travel rewards. If you’re in the market for a new card, shop around and see what fits your lifestyle.

What Should You Do Next?​

• Review your current account: Are you meeting any of the new waiver requirements? If not, can you adjust your direct deposits or balances to avoid the fee?
• Explore alternatives: Don’t be afraid to shop around. There are plenty of fee-free options out there.
• Ask questions: If you’re unsure about your options, call your bank or visit a branch. They’re there to help (and they don’t want to lose your business).

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Are you affected by Wells Fargo’s new fee? Have you switched banks recently or found a great way to avoid monthly charges?