How to Use a Debit Card at an ATM

Learn to Withdraw Funds, Move Money, and More

Hand Putting Card into ATM
Photo: Jake Wyman / Getty Images

Your debit card does more than allow you to make purchases with merchants and online retailers. You can also use it to get cash from automatic teller machines (ATMs). For some people, cash withdrawals are the only reason for using a debit card.

How to Use a Debit Card at an ATM

An ATM allows you to withdraw cash, make deposits, view your balance, and more. Except for deposits and withdrawals, you can also accomplish most of those tasks online. Here are some things to remember:

  1. Practice safety first: Before you use an ATM, make sure it’s safe to do so. Only use ATMs in clean, well-lit places. Sometimes thieves hang around waiting for people who have obviously just withdrawn cash. Examine the ATM to see if anything looks suspicious. Thieves can install hidden skimming devices on ATMs. Those devices can steal your card number, and there might even be hidden cameras nearby that can see you type in your PIN. If anything looks odd, use a different ATM.
  2. Insert your card: The first step is typically to insert your card into the machine. You may have to stick it in all the way (the ATM will take the card and hold on to it), or you may just push the card until it stops and pull it back out. You can do this quickly; the machine reads your card instantly. Follow on-screen instructions if you’re not sure what to do.
  3. Enter your personal identification number (PIN): ​To access your accounts, you’ll need to prove your identity by entering a PIN. Be sure to cover the keypad as you do this because you don’t want anyone to see your PIN. You can either cover your typing hand with your free hand or block the keypad with your body. Putting your hand in the way is best, in case a hidden camera is installed on the ATM.
  4. Request a transaction: ​Once your identity is confirmed, proceed with your transaction. You’ll get a list of choices, such as a balance inquiry, cash withdrawal, or deposit. You can often complete multiple transactions in one session—for example, checking your balance and then withdrawing funds. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose the type of account and amount.
  5. Watch for fees: ​Before your transaction is completed, the ATM should inform you of any fees related to your request. Decide if you want to pay those fees before you proceed, and keep in mind the ATM only shows one set of fees. Your bank might charge additional fees for using non-bank owned or affiliated ATMs. To dodge these fees, use an ATM that is part of your bank’s network.
  6. Finish the transaction: ​Be sure you have your card in your possession before you walk or drive away from the ATM. Store any cash quickly. Don’t display funds while you walk away from the machine; this tempts thieves. Finally, check to see that your ATM session has ended and the next person in line can’t continue using your account. Press the Cancel button several times if you have any doubts.

Once you get the hang of using ATMs, you can use them for more than just cash withdrawals. You can deposit checks and transfer money between accounts, and some ATMs may even allow you to talk with a customer service representative via video conference.

Not Just ATM Cards

Several different types of cards are available, so you may be confused about which cards work at ATMs. Those cards go by a variety of names, and almost all of them allow you to withdraw cash. However, the cost of using those cards varies, and the additional features are different. They include:

  • ATM cards: These pull funds from your account in a bank or credit union. The account might be a savings account or a checking account. Almost nobody issues an ATM-only card anymore. They’re almost all debit cards that you can use at retailers, online, and just about anywhere you’d use a credit card.
  • Debit cards and ​check cards: They pull funds from a checking account or a money market account (but generally not savings accounts). They can be used to withdraw cash and make purchases.
  • Prepaid debit cards: These can be loaded with funds when you add money to the card, and you can withdraw cash and use the card for purchases. Prepaid cards are an option for people who don't have a bank account due to the distrust of banks or an inability to open an account.
  • Credit cards: They allow you to borrow money, but you often have to pay high interest rates on your loan balance. Credit cards can be used for cash advances, but you’ll pay even higher fees and interest rates to do so.

Words to the Wise

Be careful how you use your cards, and follow these guidelines:

Know your balance: Before you make a withdrawal, make sure you have funds available in your account. Even if you recently deposited funds, those funds might not yet be available for spending. Know your bank’s policies, and check your balance online or at the ATM to avoid additional overdraft fees.

Monitor purchases and spending: A debit card is great for making cash withdrawals. You can also make everyday purchases and shop online, but it might be best to use a credit card for those tasks. Your debit card is directly linked to your bank account, so any fraud or errors will drain your checking account. A credit card creates a buffer, giving you more time to fix any problems.

Choose ATMs wisely: The best place to use an ATM is inside a locked or secured building because the machines are less vulnerable to tampering. Bank branch lobbies are a good example of these locations. If using ATMs on the street, pay especially close attention to any potential skimming devices and individuals watching you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The ATM didn't give me money, what do I do?

If you try to withdraw cash from the ATM and the machine doesn't give you the requested money, make sure to record when and where this happened. Often, the machine knows there was a malfunction, and you won't need to do anything to fix the error. However, you may need to contact the bank and file a claim.

Is it safe to make a deposit at the ATM?

While ATMS are generally safe and reliable for depositing cash into your account, errors sometimes do occur. If the deposit you are making is important, it's recommended that you make the deposit with a teller to avoid any mistakes.

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Sources
The Balance uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Chase. "A Guide to Your Account."

  2. Navy Federal CU. "CO-OP Network® ATMs."

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