Greek Court Blocks Bank Fee

Why this is here: The court imposed a 50,000 euro fine on the National Bank of Greece for violating transparency requirements with its fee structure.

A court in Athens ruled against the National Bank of Greece (ΕΤΕ) after a lawsuit by the consumer organization EKPOIZΩ. The court permanently prohibits the bank from charging a monthly fee of 0.80 euros to customers with simple savings or checking accounts, deeming the practice illegal and exploitative. The decision, issued on May 13, 2026, is immediately enforceable.

The bank attempted to reclassify these accounts as “privilege” accounts, claiming free transactions, but the court found this misleading. Many services presented as benefits were already free to customers. ΕΤΕ sent letters giving customers two months to object or automatically accept the charge, a practice the court penalized with a 50,000 euro fine for violating transparency requirements.

EKPOIZΩ has filed a similar lawsuit against another major Greek bank and is investigating a third. The consumer group alleges banks are systematically trying to convert deposit accounts into payment accounts, forcing unwanted service packages on customers.

Customers with ΕΤΕ accounts should check for refunds and contact EKPOIZΩ if issues persist. The organization also urges oversight authorities to more actively regulate banking practices.