One withdrawal from the wrong machine can come with two charges. Knowing where they come from makes them easy to avoid.
In a nutshell
- Out-of-network ATMs can charge a surcharge, and your own bank may add its own fee.
- ATM operators must disclose their surcharge before you complete the withdrawal.
- Surcharge-free networks, cash back at stores and fee reimbursements can cut ATM costs.
- Foreign ATMs may add currency conversion and international fees.
Getting cash from an ATM is usually free at your own bank’s machines. Elsewhere, fees can stack up quickly.
The two fees
| Fee | Who charges it | When |
|---|---|---|
| Surcharge | The ATM’s owner | When you use a machine outside your bank’s network |
| Out-of-network fee | Your own bank | When you use another bank’s ATM |
You can pay both on a single withdrawal. Over a year of regular withdrawals, that can become a noticeable cost.
Your right to see the surcharge
Federal rules require the ATM operator to tell you about a surcharge before you complete the transaction, either on the screen or on a notice. If the fee seems too high, you can cancel. The out-of-network fee from your own bank isn’t shown on the machine, so check your account’s fee schedule.
Do this
Use your bank’s app to find in-network or surcharge-free ATMs before you need cash. Many banks belong to large networks with thousands of machines.
Ways to avoid ATM fees
- Stay in network: use your bank’s ATMs or its partner network.
- Get cash back: many stores let you add cash to a debit card purchase, usually without a fee.
- Choose an account with reimbursements: some accounts refund a set amount of ATM fees each month.
- Plan withdrawals: fewer, larger withdrawals mean fewer fees.
ATMs abroad
Using a debit card abroad can bring an international transaction fee from your bank, the local ATM’s fee and currency conversion charges. If the machine offers to charge you in U.S. dollars, declining usually gets a better exchange rate.
Be wary
Check ATMs for loose card readers or hidden cameras, cover the keypad when entering your PIN and avoid machines in isolated spots. Report a captured card to your bank right away.
Counting the full cost of an account
ATM fees are one part of what an account really costs. Add them to monthly maintenance fees and overdraft fees when you compare accounts. Our guide to checking vs. savings explains which account to use for everyday cash.
Good questions
Can I cancel a withdrawal if I see a surcharge?
Yes. The machine must show the fee before you complete the transaction, so you can cancel without being charged the surcharge.
Do online banks have ATMs?
Many online banks don’t own ATMs but give access to large surcharge-free networks or reimburse some out-of-network fees.
Are balance checks free?
Not always. Some banks charge for balance inquiries at out-of-network ATMs. Use your banking app instead.
This guide is general information, not financial or legal advice. Bank fees, account terms and screening policies vary by bank and change over time, so check the account’s fee schedule and terms before you open it. For federal rules, see the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the FDIC.