ATM Fees: What You’ll Pay, How Banks Compare and Ways To Avoid Them
Written by
Daria Uhlig
Edited by
Joe Evans
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Wondering how much ATM fees actually cost — or which ATMs don’t charge a fee at all? You’re not the only one. Whether you’re traveling, in a hurry or just need quick cash, ATM fees can sneak up and drain your wallet faster than you think.
The cost of using an out-of-network ATM can add up to nearly $5 per transaction, depending on your bank and the ATM’s owner. But the good news is, with the right strategy, you can often avoid these charges altogether.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- How much ATM fees typically cost, and what drives those charges
- Which banks charge more and which don’t
- How to find ATMs that won’t charge you a fee
- Smart ways to avoid ATM fees entirely
What Are ATM Fees?
ATM fees are the charges you pay when using an ATM to withdraw cash, check your balance or complete other transactions, especially when the machine isn’t part of your bank’s network.
Banks and ATM owners both may tack on fees, which is why a single transaction can result in $4 to $7 in combined charges if you’re not careful.
How Much Are ATM Fees?
ATM fees vary based on your bank, the ATM’s owner and whether you’re traveling.
The average total cost of using an out-of-network ATM in the U.S. is $4.73. That includes:
- Your bank’s fee for using an outside ATM
- Plus a fee from the ATM operator
What Affects How Much You Pay:
- In-network vs. out-of-network: You usually won’t pay if the ATM is your bank’s.
- ATM owner: Convenience stores or third-party machines tend to charge more.
- Location: Expect higher fees in airports, hotels or tourist areas.
- International use: You’ll likely face both an ATM fee and a currency conversion charge.
Use GOBankingRate’s free ATM finder resource if you’re on the hunt for an ATM near you.
Types of ATM Fees To Know
Not all ATM fees are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the ones you’re most likely to encounter:
In-Network Fees
- Usually $0
- Using your bank’s own ATM or a partner ATM
Out-of-Network Fees
- Typically $2 to $3 from your bank, plus $1 to $3 from the ATM owner
International Transaction Fees
- Can add up to $5 to $7 per withdrawal
- Includes both a foreign ATM fee and a currency conversion fee of 1% to 3%
Balance Inquiry Fees
- Some ATMs charge $1 to $2 just to check your balance
ATM Withdrawal Fees
- Might apply if you’re pulling cash from certain savings accounts
Monthly ATM Usage Fees
- Some banks charge a monthly fee if you exceed free ATM usage limits
ATM Fees by Bank: A Quick Comparison
If you’re trying to choose the best bank to avoid ATM fees, here’s how major U.S. banks stack up:
| Bank | In-Network Fee | Out-of-Network Fee | International Fee | Balance Inquiry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chase | $0 | $3.00 | $5.00 | $2.00 |
| Bank of America | $0 | $2.50 | $5.00 | $1.50 |
| Wells Fargo | $0 | $2.75 | $5.00 | $1.00 |
| Citi® | $0 | $2.50 | $5.00 | $2.00 |
| Capital One | $0 | $2.50 | $3.00 | $2.00 |
| PNC Bank | $0 | $3.00 | $5.00 | $1.50 |
| U.S. Bank | $0 | $2.50 | $3.00 | $1.50 |
Note: These fees are accurate as of mid-2025. Always check your specific account’s fee disclosure for updates.
What ATMs Don’t Charge a Fee?
So, what ATMs don’t charge a fee? You have more options than you think.
No-Fee ATM Options:
- Your bank’s ATM: Always your safest bet
- Partner networks: Banks often belong to fee-free ATM networks like Allpoint, MoneyPass or Co-op
- Retailers: Stores like CVS, Walgreens and Target often offer cash back with a debit purchase
- Online banks: Some, like Charles Schwab, reimburse you for all ATM fees — even international ones
Use your bank’s mobile app to find fee-free ATMs near you before you go.
How To Avoid ATM Fees
ATM fees are avoidable — if you plan ahead. Here’s how to keep more of your money:
- Stick with in-network ATMs
- Use your bank’s mobile app or website to locate free ATMs
- Withdraw larger amounts less often to reduce trips
- Use a debit card for cash back at grocery or retail stores
- Choose banks that offer ATM fee reimbursements (especially online or premium accounts)
Can You Get an ATM Fee Refund?
Yes — many banks offer ATM fee refunds, but they’re often tied to certain conditions like maintaining a minimum balance or having a premium checking account.
How To Request a Refund:
- Call or message customer service with the transaction details
- Ask about ATM reimbursement eligibility
- Wait for a credit, usually within 1 to 3 business days
Some banks refund ATM fees automatically, so check your account benefits.
Smart Habits To Minimize ATM Fees
Even small tweaks to your banking habits can help:
- Always use your bank’s ATM locator
- Withdraw cash when you’re near your regular bank
- Use debit at checkout to get cash back
- Track your transactions to avoid surprise charges
- Plan ahead so you don’t need last-minute ATM runs
Final Take to GO: Don’t Let ATM Fees Drain Your Cash
ATM fees are avoidable, but only if you know how they work. Whether you’re asking how much are ATM fees or trying to figure out what ATMs don’t charge a fee, the key is planning ahead.
- Use your bank’s ATMs or partner networks
- Take advantage of cash-back at checkout
- Pick an account with ATM fee refunds
- And always double-check before you tap “Withdraw”
Want to make smarter money moves? Learn more about the best checking accounts with no ATM fees or compare fee-free online banks here.
FAQs About ATM Fees
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding ATM fees.- Can I use any ATM for free?
- Only if it’s part of your bank’s network or if they reimburse out-of-network fees.
- Are some ATMs cheaper than others?
- Yes. Machines at credit unions, big retailers or within partner networks tend to charge less (or nothing).
- How do I find ATMs with no fees?
- Use your bank’s mobile app or search for nearby Allpoint, MoneyPass or Co-op ATMs.
- Do all banks charge the same ATM fees?
- No. Each bank sets its own ATM fee policy, which varies by account type and location.
- What if I was charged an ATM fee by mistake?
- Call your bank’s customer service and request a refund. Many will reverse the charge if it was an error.
Cynthia Measom and Michael Keenan contributed to the reporting for this article.
Information is accurate as of July 29, 2025.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided by Chase. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by Chase.
