How to Clear an Overdrawn Checking Account

An overdrawn checking account is frustrating, embarrassing and can leave you feeling hopeless and anxious. Because most banks charge reoccurring fees for overdrafts, getting the account out of the red can be challenging. Fortunately, communicating with the bank and your creditors can help you clear things up.

The fastest way to clear an overdrawn checking account is to deposit enough cash to cover the overdrawn amount, overdraft fees and other expenses. If you have money in a savings account or on your person, deposit it as quickly as possible. That can help you avoid the daily or per transaction fees that most banks charge when you overdraw. Although it's a costly option, you can also get a cash advance from a credit card and use it to cover your overdraft.

Some banks reverse overdraft fees for loyal customers who don't overdraw accounts often. Even if you have overdrawn your account before, communicating with the branch manager or supervisor at your bank may get at least some fees waived. Overdraft fees can be charged both per day the account was overdrawn and per transaction after that. Reducing the fees may make it possible to cover the overdraft with cash.

If you have overdraft protection the bank continues to pay bills presented to your account, sending you further and further into debt and increasing your overdraft fees. As soon as you realize your account has been overdrawn, call merchants with which you have automated or future payment agreements and cancel them. Discuss the situation with the merchants, as they may be willing to waive late fees as long as you pay when the situation is under control.

If you're unable to clear the overdraft quickly your bank may close your account, send it to collections or threaten legal action. Communicate frequently both with your bank and creditors as you try to get your account cleared. In many cases creditors and bankers are willing to work with you if they know you're trying to resolve the situation.