Debit Card Overdraft Services : Will the Federal Reserve's New Rules Enhance Transparency and Consumer Choice?

While the appearance of debit and credit cards is similar, the attributes have significant differences, particularly when it comes to account overdrafts. This does not suggest that credit cards are somehow superior products, as complaints abound concerning credit card fees. Nevertheless, consumers don't always appreciate card differences, believing cards are mostly the same. There are real differences when it comes to account overdrafts. This essay supports the opt-in approach of the Federal Reserve's final rules on overdraft services, but cautions against bank practices that undermine transparency. This essay also observes that as payment systems continue to change, the issues associated with developing payment systems may require more frequent attention, suggesting that a Consumer Financial Protection Agency would allow the issues to receive the attention of a primary regulator