can anyone direct me to the maximum amount a bank can charge loan customers as a late charge for paying late...
thank you

Real Property Law Article 8 Section 254-b limits late fees on mortgages to 2% of the deliquent installment. It has to be charged seperately.

Patrick,
Is there anything about other installment loans, not real estate secured?

Section 108 (4)(c) of Article III of the Banking Law sets the limit at 5 cents per dollar (five dollars maximum) on any one installment and no more than 2% ($25 maximum) in aggregate.

Patrick,
what if the loan falls under Retail Installment?

I am only familiar with the Banking Laws. Sorry I can't help you.

Personal Property Law Ch 41, Art 10, Sec 402.6 covers retail installment contract delinquency charges.

If it's a motor vehicle retail installment contract, its 41-9-302.7.

Both appear to have the same provision- 10 day grace period, and can charge "an amount not in excess of the rate or rates agreed to in the contract". Safe bet is to charge a resaonable charge that is in line with what is customarily charged in the industry & have it blessed by your legal area.