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We're the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a U.S. government agency that makes sure banks, lenders, and other financial companies treat you fairly.

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I bought something with my credit card when I was abroad and when the bill came there was a 2 percent fee. What’s that?

Answer:

Many credit card companies charge a fee for purchases made in a foreign country.  Sometimes this is called a foreign transaction fee. Different card companies have different rules about these fees.

Your cardholder agreement should tell you the rules for your credit card. Before you travel, you might want to call your card company and ask what fees will apply when you use your card outside of the United States.

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