Any chance I can get a break on these fees?

[Metric6]

I went on a road trip with my friend over the weekend. Times are a little tight, and I have been working every weekend on top of my usual job. So, even though it was my first weekend off in 5 months, I was trying to remain frugal on my trip. We rented a car yesterday for the return. I asked if it was ok to pay with debit, he said sure. He said it would be 96 dollars. Later that day I checked my account and was surprised to see that Hertz took 296 out of my account. Apparently with debit rentals they take out an additional 200 and then put it back in later. The problem is that it overdrew my account. The hold has not yet been released, and 9 things I purchased the previous day posted after hertz overdrew my account. That is 315 in fees. Is there any chance of getting some of these waved or is it my fault for not realizing hertz did this even though the person at the counter did not state the practice to me? Is there anything that can be done by either Bank of AMerica or Hertz? I need to pay bills and the 315 in fees are for things purchased before I even payed for the rental car, they just didn't post until after.

[MoneyTrev]

If there's a contract that you had to sign, then it's your fault. Even without a contract, I still think it's your fault because you can apply this practice especially on internet.

[arthurb999]

That sucks. That would be between you and hertz... I'd be pissed.. they should have mentioned it. Did it say anythign about that in the contract you signed?

[johmi]

If Hertz has already returned the $200 to your debit card I think there is a very good chance to get the fees reduced to 1 fee per day if you go to your local branch, but it depends a lot on your bank.

There is most likely a contract with Hertz explaining the $200, but it is poor customer service by Hertz and you might be able to convince them to reimburse you for a portion of your rental if you provide documentation for the fees

[Metric6]

I looked through the website and the 200 dollar policy is explained, I had just never heard of this type of thing and was unprepared for it. The money will go back in tonight at midnight. I hope I can get the fees reduced because 315 dollars is more than I can afford at the moment.

[disneysteve]

I had just never heard of this type of thing and was unprepared for it.

That is an extremely common practice with debit cards. Hotels, rental car companies, restaurants, even gas stations will put a hold on your card for more than the actual charge. If you use your debit card a lot, it has probably happened before but might not have caused you to be overdrawn so you didn't realize it had happened.

[Metric6]

talked to my bank, the money was back while everything was still pending, so there were no fees.

[disneysteve]

That's great. Glad it won't cost you anything. You got an important free lesson, though. In the future, be aware that holds can be placed on your account for more than the amount being charged.