Big banks aim fees at those who avoid debt, pay bills on time

Big banks' message: Freeloaders and mooching clients that don't pay their bills on time get privileges.

Update : Senator Dodd calls for credit card rate freeze until new rules take effect

Did you pay your bills on time this month? Avoided taking on unnecessary debt? Well, there's a fee for that.

Anticipating the implementation of the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act in February of next year, big banks are stepping up their aggressive treatment of those who hold cards that may be deemed too generous, or those who are studious in making payments.
Specifically, if a customer receives significant benefits from their credit card -- like frequent flier miles or other incentives -- but still manages to pay off their balance at the end of every month, their likelihood of being charged extra is going up.

"Starting next year, Bank of America will charge a small number of customers an annual fee, ranging from $29 to $99," USA Today reported. "The bank has characterized the fee as experimental. But card holders who have never carried a balance or paid late fees could be among those affected."
Read on.