Yes, most banks will issue an ATM card for your savings account
An ATM card is a debit card that lets you withdraw cash and check your balance at ATMs, but it does not let you make purchases at stores or online. Most banks issue one automatically when you open a savings account, or you can request one if you did not receive it. The card is tied directly to your savings account, so withdrawals come straight from your balance.
Some banks charge a small fee for the card itself—usually $5 to $15—though many waive it if you maintain a minimum balance or meet other account requirements. Once you have the card, you can use it at your bank's ATMs for free, but using another bank's ATM typically costs $2 to $3 per transaction, depending on the ATM operator and your bank's policy.
The process is straightforward: call your bank, visit a branch, or log into your online account to request the card. It usually arrives by mail within 5 to 10 business days. You will need to activate it before you can use it, either by calling a number on the card or using your bank's app.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks issue an ATM card automatically with a savings account, but you can request one if you did not receive it.
- ATM cards let you withdraw cash and check your balance, but cannot be used to buy things at stores or online.
- Using ATMs outside your bank's network typically costs $2 to $3 per withdrawal, so check your bank's ATM locations before opening an account.
- The card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days and must be activated before use.
- Some banks charge a fee for the card, but many waive it if you keep a minimum balance or meet other requirements.
How to request an ATM card if you do not have one
If your bank did not send you a card when you opened your account, contact them directly. Call the customer service number on your bank statement or the back of any existing card, visit a branch in person, or log into your online banking portal and look for a "Request a Card" or "Order a Card" option.
You will need to confirm your account number and identity. The bank may ask you to verify your Social Security number or answer security questions. Once approved, the card is printed and mailed to the address on file—usually within 5 to 10 business days, though some banks offer expedited shipping for a fee of $10 to $25.
If you are opening a new account and want to know whether an ATM card comes with it, ask before you sign up. Some banks include it; others require you to request it separately.
ATM cards versus debit cards: what you can and cannot do
An ATM card works only at ATMs and cannot be used to pay for purchases. A debit card works at ATMs and also lets you buy things at stores, restaurants, and online. Both are connected to your savings account and draw money directly from your balance.
If your bank offers only an ATM card and you want to make purchases without carrying cash, you can request a debit card instead—or in addition. Some banks issue both. A debit card typically arrives with the same timeline as an ATM card and may have the same or a different fee structure.
ATM cards are useful if you want to limit your spending to cash withdrawals only, or if you prefer not to use your card for purchases. Debit cards are more convenient if you shop regularly and want one card for both cash and purchases.
Fees and costs associated with ATM cards
The card itself may cost $5 to $15 when you first order it, though many banks waive this fee if you maintain a minimum balance—often $500 to $1,500—or set up direct deposit. Check your account agreement or ask your bank what fee applies to you.
Using your bank's own ATMs is free. Using another bank's ATM costs $2 to $3 per transaction. Some banks cap the number of free out-of-network withdrawals per month—for example, allowing 3 free withdrawals and charging for any beyond that. After you exceed the limit, each withdrawal costs $2 to $3.
Some savings accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee ($5 to $15), which is separate from the ATM card fee. This fee may be waived if you keep a minimum balance, receive direct deposit, or meet other conditions. Review your account terms to understand all costs.
Activation and security when you receive your card
When your ATM card arrives, do not use it until you activate it. Activation protects you by confirming you received the card and preventing someone else from using it if it was intercepted in the mail.
To activate, call the number printed on the card or use your bank's mobile app. You will be asked to verify your identity—usually by providing your Social Security number, date of birth, or answers to security questions. Activation is instant and takes about 2 minutes.
Once activated, set a PIN (personal identification number) if you have not already. Your PIN is what you enter at the ATM to withdraw cash. Do not share it with anyone, and do not use an obvious number like your birthday or the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you forget your PIN, call your bank to reset it.
What to do if your ATM card is lost or stolen
Call your bank immediately if your card goes missing. Most banks have a 24-hour fraud line number on the back of your statement or on their website. Report the card lost or stolen, and the bank will freeze it so no one else can use it.
Your liability for unauthorized withdrawals depends on how quickly you report the loss. If you report it before any fraudulent withdrawals occur, you are not responsible for anything. If withdrawals happen before you report it, your liability is typically limited to $50 under federal law, though many banks waive this entirely if you report within a few days.
The bank will cancel the old card and mail you a replacement, usually within 5 to 10 business days. If you need cash urgently, you can visit a branch and withdraw cash in person using your ID, or request expedited card delivery for a fee.
ATM card limits and daily withdrawal caps
Most banks set a daily limit on how much cash you can withdraw from an ATM—commonly $300 to $500 per day, though some allow up to $1,000. This limit is a security measure to protect your account if your card is stolen.
If you need to withdraw more than your daily limit, visit a bank branch during business hours and withdraw cash at the teller window. Teller withdrawals are usually not subject to the same daily cap as ATM withdrawals. You will need to bring your ID.
You can request a higher daily limit by calling your bank, but approval is not may provide. The bank may increase it if you have a long account history with them and no fraud on your account. Some banks allow you to set your own limit within a range they define.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get an ATM card with my savings account?
No. You can have a savings account without an ATM card. If you prefer to withdraw cash only at a teller window or do not need to access your money at ATMs, you can decline the card. However, most banks offer it as a standard service.
Can I use my ATM card to pay bills online or over the phone?
No. ATM cards work only at ATMs. To pay bills online or by phone, you need a debit card or to provide your bank account number and routing number directly. Ask your bank whether they offer a debit card if you need this feature.
What happens if I use an ATM card at a store?
The card will be declined. ATM cards have no merchant processing capability, so they cannot be used to buy things. If you need to make purchases with a card, request a debit card from your bank instead.
How long does it take to get an ATM card after I open a savings account?
Usually 5 to 10 business days by standard mail. Some banks offer expedited shipping for $10 to $25, which can reduce this to 2 to 3 business days. Ask your bank about expedited options when you open your account if you need the card quickly.
Can I have multiple ATM cards on the same savings account?
Yes. Some banks allow you to order a second card for the same account, which is useful if you want a backup or want to give a trusted family member access to the account. Ask your bank about their policy and any fees for additional cards.