Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs)
ATMs work much the same way they do in your home country. They let you withdraw cash from your bank account, check your balance, and make deposits. You’ll find them almost everywhere: banks, shopping centers, convenience stores, gas stations, airports, and even inside some restaurants and hotels.
Will your home bank card work?
Most debit and credit cards issued outside the U.S. will work in American ATMs, especially if they’re on the Visa/Plus or Mastercard/Cirrus networks (look for these logos on the back of your card). Before you leave home:
- Call your bank to confirm your card will work internationally and ask about foreign transaction fees.
- Let your bank know you’re traveling — many banks flag foreign withdrawals as suspicious and freeze your card if they don’t know you’re abroad.
- Confirm your PIN is 4 digits. Most U.S. ATMs only accept numeric PINs up to 4 digits — if yours is longer or uses letters, ask your bank about resetting it before you travel.
Tip: To cut down on fees, opening a U.S. bank account (see link above) and withdrawing from your own bank’s ATMs is usually cheaper than repeatedly using your home card. Also try to withdraw larger amounts less often rather than small amounts frequently, since flat fees add up fast.
Withdrawal limits
Most ATMs and bank accounts have a daily withdrawal limit (commonly $300–$1,000, depending on the bank and account type). If you need more cash than that, you may need to visit a bank branch in person with ID.
Staying safe at the ATM
- Use ATMs attached to a bank branch when possible. They’re generally safer and less likely to be tampered with than standalone machines.
- Check the card slot and keypad for anything that looks loose, added-on, or unusual. These could be signs of a “skimmer” device.
- Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN.
- Avoid using ATMs alone late at night; if possible, use a machine inside a lit, populated area.
- Count your cash and put it away before stepping away from the machine.
A couple of extra things to know
U.S. ATMs dispense cash only in U.S. dollars, in bills (no coins). If a machine keeps your card, contact the bank it belongs to immediately. Don’t assume it will be mailed back automatically.
