Most checking accounts include an ATM card, but not all
When you open a checking account at a bank or credit union, you usually get an ATM card as part of the standard package. The card lets you withdraw cash and check your balance at ATMs without going inside a branch. However, some account types—particularly basic or limited accounts—do not come with a card, and a few banks charge a monthly fee for one.
The ATM card is separate from your debit card, though many banks issue them as a single card with both functions. An ATM-only card works at ATMs but cannot be used to buy things at stores or online. A debit card does both. When you open an account, ask which type you are getting and whether there is a cost.
Key Takeaways
- Most standard checking accounts come with an ATM card at no extra charge, but you should confirm this when you open the account.
- Some banks offer basic accounts or savings accounts that do not include an ATM card unless you request one or pay a fee.
- An ATM-only card works at ATMs but cannot be used to make purchases; a debit card does both.
- If your account does not come with a card, you can usually request one from your bank, though it may take a few business days to arrive.
- ATM cards issued by your bank work free at your bank's ATMs; using another bank's ATM usually costs $2 to $4 per transaction.
What happens when you open a checking account
When you sign up for a checking account in person or online, the bank or credit union will ask what type of card you want. Most people choose a debit card because it works everywhere—at ATMs, stores, and online. If you only want to withdraw cash, you can ask for an ATM card instead. The bank will either give you the card on the spot (if you opened the account in a branch) or mail it to you within 5 to 10 business days.
Some banks automatically send you a debit card and do not offer an ATM-only option. Others let you choose. A few banks—usually those offering very low-cost or no-fee accounts—do not include any card and require you to pay a fee to get one. Read the account terms before you sign up, or call the bank's customer service line to ask what comes with the account you are considering.
Account types that may not include an ATM card
Savings accounts typically do not come with an ATM card. You can withdraw money at a teller window or through a transfer to another account, but you do not get a card for direct ATM access. If you want ATM access from a savings account, ask your bank whether they offer it and what the cost is.
Some checking accounts marketed as "basic" or "second chance" accounts—often for people rebuilding credit or new to banking—do not include a card. These accounts may have lower monthly fees but require you to visit a branch to withdraw cash or request a card separately. A few online-only banks do not issue physical ATM cards at all; instead, they let you withdraw cash at partner ATMs or through their mobile app.
Money market accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) do not come with ATM cards. These are savings products, not transaction accounts, and are designed for money you are not withdrawing regularly.
How to request an ATM card if you do not have one
If your account does not include a card, contact your bank by phone, in person, or through their website to request one. You will need to provide your account number and verify your identity. The bank will mail the card to the address on file, which usually takes 5 to 10 business days. Some banks offer rush delivery for a fee.
If you already have a card and it is lost, stolen, or damaged, call your bank immediately to report it. They will deactivate the old card and send you a replacement, usually within the same timeframe. While you wait, you can still withdraw cash at a teller window or use your mobile banking app to transfer money to another account.
ATM fees and where your card works
Your bank's ATM card works free at any ATM owned by your bank or credit union. If you use an ATM from a different bank, you will usually pay a fee of $2 to $4 per transaction. Some banks reimburse out-of-network ATM fees up to a certain amount each month, so check your account terms.
Credit unions often belong to shared branching networks that let you use ATMs at other credit unions for free. If you bank at a credit union, ask whether they participate in a network like CO-OP or Allpoint, which can give you access to thousands of free ATMs nationwide.
Online banks and some regional banks partner with ATM networks to offer free withdrawals at thousands of locations. When you open an account, ask which ATMs you can use for free and which ones will charge you.
What to do if you need cash but do not have a card
If your account does not have an ATM card and you need cash immediately, you have several options. Visit a branch during business hours and ask a teller to withdraw money from your account. Bring your ID and account number or a recent statement.
Many grocery stores and pharmacies offer cash back when you use a debit card to buy something, even if you do not have an ATM card. Some banks also let you withdraw cash through their mobile app at partner locations.
If you are traveling or your branch is far away, call your bank's customer service line to ask about the fastest way to access your money. They can tell you whether you can withdraw cash at a branch of a partner bank or through a network ATM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my ATM card at stores to buy things?
No, an ATM-only card works only at ATMs. If you want to use your card at stores and online, you need a debit card. Many banks issue a single card that works as both a debit card and an ATM card, so ask your bank which type you have.
What if my bank does not offer ATM cards?
Some online banks do not issue physical cards. Instead, they let you withdraw cash at partner ATMs using your account number and PIN, or through their mobile app. Contact your bank to learn how to access your money without a physical card.
Do I have to pay for an ATM card?
Most banks include an ATM card with a checking account at no extra charge. A few banks charge a monthly fee or require you to pay for a card separately. Check your account terms or call your bank before you sign up.
How long does it take to get an ATM card after I open an account?
If you open an account in person at a branch, you may get a card on the spot. If you open online or by mail, the card usually arrives within 5 to 10 business days. Some banks offer expedited delivery for a fee.
Can I withdraw cash without an ATM card?
Yes. You can visit a branch and ask a teller to withdraw money, or use your mobile banking app to transfer funds to another account. Some banks also let you withdraw cash at partner locations using your account number and ID.