What happens if there's not enough money in a checking account to cover monthly fee?

If there isn't enough money in a checking account to cover a monthly fee, the bank may either charge an overdraft fee or decline the transaction. Some banks offer overdraft protection, allowing the account to go into a negative balance up to a certain limit, but this often incurs additional fees. If the account remains negative, it may lead to further penalties, and the account holder could face issues with credit or account closure. It's important to check with the bank for specific policies regarding insufficient funds.