Is Fifth Third Bank’s Identity Alert Service Worth the Fee?

No, the Identity Alert Service does not appear to be worth the fee.

I looked at recent customer feedback and several patterns emerged:

  • Slow and cumbersome access – Users report a 30‑second to 2‑minute delay for a security check, then having to click “Login” again. This defeats the purpose of a quick, registered‑device login.
  • Extra verification steps – Long‑time customers who never needed two‑step verification are now forced to use it, even when they don’t have their phone handy. The bank says it’s “for protection,” but it creates real inconvenience.
  • Fraud handling concerns – Multiple reports mention fraudulent charges that were not corrected, and the bank apparently did not intervene to stop further fraud.
  • Interest rate cuts – Some high‑balance savers saw their rates drop by 100 basis points, with the bank citing future Fed moves that may never happen.

These issues suggest the service adds friction without delivering the promised security benefits. If you are mainly looking for fast online access and reliable fraud protection, the current experience may fall short.

  • Pros: The service is marketed as an extra layer of identity protection.
  • Cons: Delayed logins, mandatory two‑factor steps, and poor fraud resolution.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Consider whether the added cost outweighs the inconvenience and the mixed experiences reported by other customers.
 
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