How to Use an ATM: Step-By-Step Guide

You can use an automated teller machine (ATM) with a debit card or, sometimes, even a credit card. While the process is straightforward, it helps to know how to use an ATM ahead of time. ATMs are fairly uniform and follow the same process, whether you are checking your balance, withdrawing money or making a deposit.

For help with figuring out how you want to store your own money, consider working with a financial advisor.

How to Use an ATM to Withdraw Money

If you need to make a withdrawal from your bank or credit union, here are 10 general steps to help you get started:

Insert your debit or credit card into the ATM machine, making sure the chip faces the right way, according to the machine’s directions.
Enter your personal identification number (PIN), taking care to shield the numbers from the view of anyone who may be standing around you.
Select withdrawal from the list of available transactions, which also includes deposits and balance inquiries.
Choose the correct account type, selecting between your checking, savings or other accounts.
Enter the withdrawal amount, such as $100, $50 or $20 in cash.
Agree to pay a fee, if your bank charges one. There may be terms and conditions to review and agree to before proceeding.
Confirm the transaction using the on-screen prompts.
Select if you would like a receipt, and be sure to put it somewhere safe.
Remove your debit or credit card from the machine and put it in a safe place.
Take your cash and receipt.

While it is possible to use a credit card to make a withdrawal (also called a cash advance), be wary of the fees you might encounter. For example, a typical cash advance fee is 5% of the amount requested, according to Chase. In addition, credit cards have cash advance APRs that are higher than purchase APRs.

In some cases, there might be limits to how much you can withdraw in a day. If you intend to withdraw a large amount of money, check with your bank to see if there is a daily withdrawal limit. If you will exceed the limit, ask your bank if it is willing to increase it for you.

How to Use an ATM to Deposit Money

Closeup of a man typing his pin into an ATM machine.

DeDepositing cash at an ATM follows similar steps with some slight differences.In this case, you can only use a debit card, not a credit card. In addition, you generally must deposit cash only at an ATM owned by your bank. Cash that you deposit will be available immediately, but checks can take some time to deposit.

Be sure to endorse the back of your check before depositing it.

At Your Bank

Complete the deposit slip, including your name, account number, deposit amount and date.
Give your cash and deposit slip to a teller who will verify the total amount and account for the deposit.
Take your receipt and store it somewhere safe so you have proof of your deposit if needed in the future.

At Your ATM:

Complete the deposit slip, with your name, account number, deposit amount and date.
Find an ATM to perform your transaction, double-checking that it accepts cash deposits.
Put your debit card into the slot and enter your PIN.
Follow the on-screen instructions, including
Recount your cash to confirm the amount before you put it into the machine.
Slip your cash and deposit slip into the machine, using either the provided envelope or cash deposit slot.
Confirm the deposit, making sure the amount is correct.
Take your receipt, tucking it away somewhere safe, and confirm the transaction is concluded on the screen before walking away,

Through the Mobile App:

Open your bank’s mobile app and confirm mobile check deposit is available.
Click the Deposit option.
Follow the instructions, which typically includes taking a photo of the front and back of the check.
Check to ensure the deposit is correct before completing the transaction.
Confirm the transaction.

How to Check Your Balance and Transfer Funds

Checking your balance is a routine step at any ATM. Generally, you will see this as a type of transaction alongside deposit, withdrawal, etc. You might also see your balance printed on your receipt after your transaction if you indicate that you want a receipt.

You can also transfer funds between accounts at an ATM. Simply select the button for a transfer, pick the accounts to transfer money from and to and enter the amount of money you want transferred.

How Much Are ATM Fees?

ATMs can have several types of bank fees, and they can quickly add up, so it is important to be aware of them in advance. After all, they can make up a significant portion of your transaction.

These are some of the most common types of ATM fees:

Out-of-network fees: If you use an ATM that is not owned by your bank or in their network, you will likely have to pay a fee of $2 to $3.
Convenience fee: Some privately-owned ATMs might charge a convenience fee for using their services. This is an extra fee on top of any out-of-network fees.
Account fees: There might be a small fee assessed by your financial institution, such as a penalty if you make too many transactions in one day.
Currency exchange: If a currency exchange is necessary, there can be a fee of 1% to 3% of the transaction. This is common when making withdrawals overseas.

Where (And How) to Find an ATM

It is always a good idea to know where and how to find an ATM. Not only will it make your life easier, but it will also help you avoid out-of-network fees.

Fortunately, finding an ATM is not too difficult in most cases. Most banks have an ATM locator on their website, for example.The bank’s mobile app might also have an ATM locator that uses location services on your phone to find an ATM nearby, significantly simplifying the process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much money can you withdraw from an ATM?

Every bank has different limits based on your account permissions. Privately-owned ATMs may also enforce withdrawal limits. Before you withdraw cash from an ATM, be sure to check with both your bank and the ATM to see what maximum limits apply.

Can you use a credit card at an ATM?

Some ATMs allow you to use a credit card for a cash advance. However, you must also check that your bank offers this feature. The withdrawal process is then similar to that of a checking or savings account, with the specific instructions displayed on the screen.

Bottom Line

Automated teller machines (ATMs) are an incredibly convenient way to do most of your basic banking tasks. For example, you can easily deposit money, withdraw money or check your balance. If you do so at an ATM in your financial institution’s network, fees should be minimal. However, be aware of certain fees you might encounter, such as cash advance fees or out-of-network fees. There are usually fees when a currency exchange is necessary, too.

Tips for Opening a Bank Account

If you plan to open a bank account, be sure to check SmartAsset’s checking & savings guide. Some checking accounts are better than others; for example, some have monthly fees and minimum account balances. Be sure to research the best options before opening a new checking account.
A financial advisor can help you work through your banking needs and create a plan that works in your unique situation. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.