FTC bans hidden 'junk fees' for concert tickets and hotels

The Federal Trade Commission announced on Tuesday a final rule to ban ticket sellers and hotels from tacking on hidden fees at checkout.

The hidden “service fees” or “resort fees” must be included in the total price of the ticket or hotel purchase up front. The 4-1 vote in favor of the rule was bipartisan. The FTC said it hopes the upfront disclosure will make comparison shopping easier and result in savings for consumers and a more level market.