A few months ago, I read a book by Andrew Sullivan called "Gotcha Capitalism," and it was all about how companies rip us off with hidden fees. I highly recommend it.
I'm not an economist, but I wouldn't be surprised if companies try to ratchet up the "gotchas" as the economy worsens. They have to make money somewhere.
Last week, Chase Mortgage tried to nick me for $30. Forget prior warning, they didn't even explain it to me until I called to ask what the $30 fee was all about.
Here's what happened: I'm refinancing and the new lender needed a payoff statement from Chase Mortgage. No problem, Chase said it could fax the statement.
Then they charged me $30 to send a fax! I called to complain, and Chase removed the fee.
This morning, I checked my statement online and the $30 fee was back on! I called again and they, again, claim they have removed it.
Oh, I almost forgot the best part. Chase never faxed the statement! I had to call and ask to have one mailed to me. I had to fax the payoff to the new lender!
Moral of the story: Keep a sharp eye on all your accounts...not just for hidden fees, but for decreases in HELOC or credit card limits, or increases in interest rates.