Published: Tuesday, 17 Mar 2009 | 3:30 PM ET

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The fees your bank charges for various services and penalties have been going in one direction for the past decade: up. These charges can take a big bite out of your bottom line when put together, which is why Greg McBride of Bankrate.com has these fee fighting strategies:

1. Finding the right checking account is like finding the right spouse – compatibility is key. Look for non-interest checking accounts where fees are lower.

2. When you think about it, most bank fees are completely avoidable if you can plan ahead. Get a free checking account, only make ATM withdrawals at your bank’s machines and sign up for overdraft protecting by linking your checking and savings accounts.

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