Canceled Checks. Some banks no longer return canceled checks to customers, but microfilm them, destroy the originals, and may charge customers from $3 to $5 to get a copy of a particular check. Find out the bank's policy on canceled checks.

Overdraft Protection. More and more banks are offering overdraft protection. Be sure to review the terms of the agreement before you sign, as some banks are actually offering short-term loans as overdraft protection. These short-term loans require a credit check and the bank charges interest on the money loaned to you to cover the check that would have bounced. This may be combined with an additional fee for the use of the overdraft protection. This service, however, can offer substantial savings over bounced check fees.

Direct Deposit. Banks encourage individuals as well as businesses to use direct deposit. Through this service, your paycheck, government issued check or any recurring check is deposited directly into your bank account. No paper check is issued and the entire amount of the check is available as cash on your regular receipt of payment. Some banks offer free ATM usage, free or lower cost checking, or other incentives if you sign-up for direct deposit.

Checks. Selling checks is another special service some banks offer. Some banks offer a certain amount of free checks as an incentive to open an account, and then ask you to purchase your checks through them. Checks can also be purchased directly from a check printer. This option may be less expensive, however these purchases can sometimes pose processing problems.