Banking customers are loyal until their financial institution raises fees on checking accounts, according to an online survey by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC).

The survey, conducted in March, found that 51 percent of respondents would shop for another bank if their checking account fees increased.

“Even though banks are considering ways to recoup monies lost due to recent regulations, they nonetheless need to retain customers,” said Gail Cunningham, spokesperson for the NFCC. “The results of the survey send a strong signal that consumers are ready to walk if fees are imposed. Money is still tight in many households, with consumers watching how every penny is spent, including even seemingly small amounts such as bank fees.”

The survey found that 16 percent of respondents wouldn’t notice if their bank raised fees and 11 percent would take a “so what” attitude.

Another 6 percent said they would close their account and switch to pre-paid debit cards.