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Writer's pictureZelma Davila, Esq.
Feb 1, 2023

Breaking News: CFPB Proposes Rule to Stop $12 Billion in Excessive Credit Card Late Fees - Find Out

In this article we will cover a very important topic that affects millions of American families, and that's the excessive credit card late fees. Did you know that these late fees cost American families about $12 billion each year? That's a staggering amount of money that could be used for other important things like paying bills, saving for retirement, or even taking a much-needed vacation.


Credit card companies have been profiting off these late fees for too long, protected by an expansive immunity provision. And to make matters worse, they have also relied on this provision to hike fees with inflation, even if they face no additional collection costs. This is not only unfair to consumers, but it's also a clear indication that the system needs to change.

Thankfully, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has proposed a rule that could help curb these excessive credit card late fees. If finalized, the proposed changes could reduce late fees by as much as $9 billion per year, which is a significant amount of money that could make a huge difference in the lives of millions of American families.

So, what exactly would these proposed changes entail? First and foremost, the immunity provision dollar amount for late fees would be lowered to $8. This would help ensure that over-the-top late fee amounts are illegal. In addition, the automatic annual inflation adjustment would end, which would stop credit card companies from continuing to hike fees without facing any additional collection costs. Finally, late fees would be capped at 25% of the required minimum payment.

These proposed changes are a step in the right direction towards a fairer and more transparent financial system. Credit card companies have relied on late fees as a source of profits for too long, and it's time for that to change. The CFPB's proposed rule would help ensure that consumers are not unfairly penalized for paying their bills late, and that they are not forced to pay excessive fees that do not reflect the actual cost of collecting the debt. Now, I know some people might argue that late fees serve as a deterrent for people to pay their bills on time, but let's be real, if someone is already struggling to pay their bills, adding a hefty late fee to the mix is only going to make their financial situation worse. It's a vicious cycle that needs to be broken.

The proposed rule by the CFPB is a great first step towards a fairer financial system. It's time for us to stand up for what's right and to fight for a system that works for everyone, not just the big credit card companies. We deserve a system where we are not penalized for making a mistake, but instead are given the tools and resources to get back on track.

So, what can you do to help? First and foremost, educate yourself on the proposed rule and how it could affect you and your family. Then, make your voice heard by reaching out to your elected representatives and telling them that you support the proposed rule. And finally, take control of your finances by paying your bills on time, and if you find yourself struggling, reach out for help. There are many resources available to help you get back on track.

The proposed rule by the CFPB is a great first step towards a fairer financial system. We need to stand together and fight for a system that works for everyone, not just the big credit card companies. Remember, your voice matters, so make it heard!

If you're struggling with more than $10,000 in debt and don't see a way out, contact us for a free case evaluation. Our experienced team of debt resolution attorneys at Almeida & Dávila, PSC will use legal tools such as bankruptcy, negotiation, and litigation to help you reduce and even eliminate your debt. Don't let debt hold you back any longer, reach out to us now for the financial freedom you deserve!"



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