I am developing a keen hatred for banks. Just recently I tried to pay a bill using my debit card of course, despite having the cash in my account, I couldn't pay it because it exceeded the limit on my card! Banks like to keep your money, charge you fees and not let you have access to your own cash in the name of security.

Here in the Czech Republic, I tried to deposit a paper check. It was in US Dollars and on an American bank. It was a small amount - around $120. First off the bank here said that they could process the check for me - it would take 30-days (everything is now done electronically here). I agreed reluctantly and then they told me it wasn't a check but a bill!. I said look it says pay me not Please send us money... Well, 20 minutes of arguing and phone calls later, they reluctantly agreed to take the check having finally determined that it indeed was a check. Three weeks later an SMS notified me that the check was deposited in my account. It was around 1500 Czech Crowns. All seems well. Until I get my statement and see that they charged me 500kc for the processing!

And, to talk of security, getting into my on line account is like getting into Fort Knox. Yes I want security but not at this expense! First I have to enter a personal banking number and wait for a code to be sent to me by text. I then enter the code and have 90 seconds to enter my PIN number! Only then can I access my account..... aghhhhhh.

Right now I am trying to pay a bill in the UK with funds in the US. The UK merchant won't accept AMEX but I can't use any of my debit or credit cards because the amount exceeds authorization. I feel pretty stupid saying well - I have the money but I can't seem to find a way to get it to you! But that is the truth.

Banks suck.