ATM withdrawal limits can be confusing, but understanding the rules can save you from pesky fees.
Most banks set daily withdrawal limits, which can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the bank and your account type.
Be aware that these limits may vary depending on whether you're using an in-network or out-of-network ATM.
Some banks also have a maximum number of withdrawals per day, usually between 5 to 10 transactions.
ATM Withdrawal Limits
ATM withdrawal limits vary from bank to bank, but most have a daily limit that ranges from $300 to $1,000. You can't just hop from ATM to ATM, taking out the maximum amount each time, as this is a cumulative daily limit.
Some ATMs have their own limits on cash withdrawals, so even if your bank allows a high withdrawal limit, the individual ATM might only allow a certain amount. For instance, if your bank has a $1,000 daily limit but the ATM only allows up to $300 worth of withdrawals, you're limited to $300.
You can request a temporary increase in your ATM withdrawal limit if you're going on a vacation or business trip that requires withdrawing more cash than your bank's limit. This can be done by contacting your bank and explaining your situation.
If you have a job that requires large daily cash withdrawals, you might ask your bank if they would be willing to make a permanent increase in your withdrawal limit. The willingness of a bank to increase your cash withdrawal limit typically depends on several factors, including the length of time you've been a customer.
Some banks, like the Bank of Luxemburg, set a default daily ATM limit of $300 for all customers, but you can request an increase if needed. This is especially helpful for customers who are on the road frequently, like truck drivers.
Here's a breakdown of the daily ATM limits for some top banks in India:
Banks set cash withdrawal limits for security purposes, so if your withdrawal limit is increased, you should still be careful and keep an eye on your debit card to avoid any unauthorized transactions.
Alternatives to ATM Withdrawal
If you're looking for alternatives to ATM withdrawal, consider using your debit card for purchases.
Many retailers now accept contactless payments, which can be a convenient option.
You can also use online banking to transfer funds to your account, which can be a faster and more secure option than withdrawing cash.
Some banks also offer mobile wallets, which allow you to make purchases using your smartphone.
Debit Cards
If you've hit the limit, getting cash back with a debit card purchase made at a store could be an alternative.
You might be able to get more cash than your default ATM limit allows, as this money will likely count toward your bank's point-of-sale daily limit, which might be higher.
The store you're shopping at may limit the amount of cash you can take out at the register, though.
Some banks will allow you to take out $1,000 from an ATM, subject to customer relationship, account type, and card type.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
ATM withdrawal limits can be a blessing in disguise, but they also have their downsides. They can prevent overspending by encouraging better budgeting and reducing the risk of losses if your card is stolen or compromised.
Some accounts with withdrawal limits may even offer lower monthly fees, which can be a nice perk. However, exceeding the limit can result in additional fees, which can add up quickly.
Inconvenience is a major con of ATM withdrawal limits. They can prevent access to sufficient cash in emergencies, leaving you scrambling for alternative solutions.
Limited flexibility is another drawback of ATM withdrawal limits. They can be restrictive, especially for those who rely heavily on cash transactions.
Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of ATM withdrawal limits:
Understanding ATM Fees
You can avoid paying ATM charges by using your bank's ATM, as you won't be charged a withdrawal fee.
Using your bank's ATM is a simple way to save money. If you have a free transaction saved for withdrawal, you can use it for ATM withdrawal instead of incurring a fee.
Sometimes, your bank can partner with other banks, allowing you to withdraw from their ATMs without a fee. This is a convenient option if you're traveling or need to access cash from a different bank.
To minimize ATM fees, consider using online methods for tasks like paying bills. This way, you can save your free transactions for other cases and avoid unnecessary fees.
Why Do Fees Exist
Fees exist to help banks monitor and control liquidity, as they typically don't keep much cash in reserve at any given time.
Banks use fees to limit how much cash they need to give out at any given time, avoiding depleting their reserves. This way, they can maintain a balance between meeting customer needs and managing their own resources.
Fees also serve as a security feature to protect account holders from fraud. If a criminal were to gain access to your account details, they would be capped to a certain amount, safeguarding your money.
By having fees in place, banks can prevent excessive withdrawals that might put a strain on their resources. This ensures that customers can still access their cash when needed, while also maintaining the bank's stability.
Avoiding ATM Fees
To avoid paying ATM charges, you can use your bank's ATM without any withdrawal fee. This is a simple and effective way to save money.
If you use your bank's ATM, you won't be charged for withdrawal. I've used my own bank's ATM for years and never had to pay a fee.
You can also save your free transactions for withdrawal by using your bank's net banking facility for tasks like account statements or amount transfers. This way, you can keep your free transactions available for when you really need them.
Using partnered ATMs is another option, but it depends on your bank's partnerships with other banks. I've tried using partnered ATMs in the past and it's been convenient.
Here are some ways to avoid paying ATM fees:
- Use your bank's ATM
- Save your free transactions for withdrawal
- Use partnered ATMs
- Paying bills online instead of withdrawing money
Bank-Specific Information
SBI, HDFC, and ICICI Bank all have daily withdrawal limits ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 3 lakh.
For SBI, HDFC, and ICICI, the fee for ATM withdrawals is typically up to Rs. 20 plus GST, depending on the number of withdrawals. Non-bank ATM withdrawals also incur a fee of up to Rs. 20 plus GST. Foreign ATM transaction charges range from a minimum of Rs. 100 plus GST plus 3.5% of the transaction amount for SBI to Rs. 150 for Punjab National Bank.
Here's a breakdown of daily withdrawal limits for some major banks:
Remember, these limits may vary depending on your specific debit card and bank. It's always a good idea to check with your bank for the most up-to-date information.
Teller Services
Teller Services are a convenient way to manage your finances.
Banks and credit unions have teller withdrawal limits, which are higher than ATM and debit card limits because you can prove your identity in person.
You can withdraw up to $20,000 in cash bills from a teller per day at many banks.
Teller services often have more flexible hours than ATMs, making it easier to get to the bank during business hours.
By visiting a branch in person, you can take advantage of higher withdrawal limits and more personalized service.
Many banks have extended hours on weekdays, making it easier to get to the bank when it's convenient for you.
SBI
SBI offers a range of debit cards with varying withdrawal limits. The Classic and Maestro Debit Cards, as well as the Global International Debit Card, have a daily withdrawal limit of Rs.40,000.
For those with higher-tier debit cards, the withdrawal limits are also higher. The SBI Gold International Debit Card has a daily limit of Rs.50,000, while the Platinum International Debit Card has a limit of Rs.1,00,000.
SBI also charges a fee for ATM withdrawals, which can range from Rs.20 to Rs.20 plus GST, depending on the number of withdrawals. Non-SBI ATM withdrawals incur a similar fee.
Here's a breakdown of the daily withdrawal limits for different SBI debit cards:
HDFC
HDFC Bank is the largest private bank in India, offering a wide range of banking services, including loan services and ATM cash withdrawals.
The bank has various debit card types, each with its own withdrawal limit. For example, HDFC International, Woman’s Advantage or NRO Debit Cards have a withdrawal limit of Rs.25,000 per day.
HDFC Titanium Royale Debit Card holders can withdraw up to Rs.75,000 per day, while JetPrivilege HDFC Bank World Debit Card holders have a higher limit of Rs.3,00,000 per day.
There are some limits to free withdrawals at HDFC Bank ATMs - you get 5 free withdrawals.
Here's a breakdown of HDFC Bank's debit card types and their corresponding withdrawal limits:
Additionally, HDFC Bank charges a fee for ATM withdrawals, which is up to Rs.21 plus taxes for both HDFC Bank and non-HDFC Bank ATMs.
ICICI
ICICI Bank offers a range of debit cards with varying withdrawal limits. The ICICI Smart Shopper Silver Debit Card has a daily withdrawal limit of Rs. 50,000.
You can withdraw up to Rs. 50,000 per day with the ICICI Smart Shopper Silver Debit Card. This limit applies to financial transactions only.
ICICI Expressions Debit Card holders can withdraw up to Rs. 1,25,000 per day. This is one of the higher daily limits offered by ICICI Bank.
ICICI Bank has a tiered withdrawal limit system. The daily limit for financial transactions ranges from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 3 lakh.
Here's a breakdown of the daily withdrawal limits for different ICICI debit cards:
ICICI Bank charges a fee of Rs. 20 per financial transaction and Rs. 8.50 per non-financial transaction for ATM withdrawals beyond the free limit.
Punjab National
Punjab National has a clear policy on withdrawal charges. They charge up to Rs.20 for ATM withdrawals, which is a reasonable fee.
If you're withdrawing from a non-PNB ATM, you'll also be charged up to Rs.20, so it's worth considering using a PNB ATM to avoid this extra fee.
The bank has a daily withdrawal limit of up to Rs.50,000, which should be sufficient for most users.
If you're making foreign transactions, be aware that there's a charge of Rs.150 per transaction.
You can enjoy up to 5 free withdrawals at PNB ATMs, which is a great benefit for frequent users.
Here's a summary of the withdrawal charges and limits:
Canara
Canara Bank has some specific limits in place for its daily debit card transactions.
You can withdraw up to Rs 75,000 per day from an ATM using a Classic Debit Card.
The POS limit for daily transactions is Rs 2 Lakh.
You can make up to 5 contactless transactions per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I withdraw more than $10,000?
If you withdraw more than $10,000, a financial institution is required to file a report with the government to help prevent money laundering and other illicit activities. This report is typically filed automatically, but may trigger additional scrutiny or questions from the institution.
Sources
- https://www.bankrate.com/banking/checking/atm-withdrawal-limits/
- https://www.sofi.com/learn/content/how-much-cash-can-you-withdraw-from-a-bank/
- https://www.cnet.com/personal-finance/banking/advice/atm-withdrawal-limits/
- https://www.bankbazaar.com/debit-card/new-atm-transaction-charges.html
- https://www.moneyrates.com/savings/atm-withdrawal-limit.htm
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