The basic ways to get your money out
You can withdraw money from a savings account through an ATM, at a bank branch in person, by transferring it to a checking account, or by requesting a check. The method you choose depends on how much you need, how quickly you need it, and what your bank offers. Most banks let you use all of these methods, though some online banks have fewer options.
The speed varies. An ATM withdrawal happens instantly. A branch withdrawal takes minutes. A transfer to your checking account usually posts within one business day. A check takes three to seven business days to clear, depending on where you deposit it.
Key Takeaways
- ATM withdrawals are the fastest way to get cash, but most banks limit how much you can withdraw per day—often $500 to $1,000.
- Withdrawing at a bank branch lets you take out larger amounts and gives you a receipt, but you need to visit during business hours.
- Transferring money to a checking account is free and usually takes one business day, and you can then spend it however you want.
- Some savings accounts have withdrawal limits set by federal law, and exceeding them may result in fees or account restrictions.
- Online banks often have fewer withdrawal methods than traditional banks, so check what your specific bank offers before you open an account.
ATM withdrawals and daily limits
An ATM is the fastest way to get cash from your savings account. You insert your debit card, enter your PIN, and the money comes out immediately. Most ATMs are available 24 hours a day, so you can withdraw money at night or on weekends without waiting for the bank to open.
Nearly every bank sets a daily ATM withdrawal limit. This limit is the maximum amount you can take out in a single day. Common limits range from $500 to $1,000, though some banks allow $2,000 or more. A few banks have no limit at all. Check your bank's website or call customer service to find out what your specific limit is.
If you need more than your daily limit, you can withdraw the maximum amount one day and come back the next day for more. Some banks will raise your limit temporarily if you call and ask, though this is not may provide. Using an ATM outside your bank's network usually costs $2 to $3 per transaction, so stick to your bank's ATMs when possible.
Withdrawing cash at a bank branch
Walking into a bank branch and withdrawing money over the counter is straightforward. Bring your debit card or account number, tell the teller how much you want, and they hand you the cash. This method works for any amount, even if it exceeds your ATM daily limit. You get a receipt showing the withdrawal, which is useful for your records.
Branch withdrawals only work during business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with shorter Saturday hours at some locations. If you need cash outside these hours, an ATM is your only option. Some branches close on Sundays or have limited weekend hours, so check your bank's website before you go.
If you are withdrawing a very large amount—say, more than $5,000—call the branch ahead of time to make sure they have enough cash on hand. Banks do not keep unlimited cash in every location, and a large withdrawal might require them to order it from another branch or their main vault.
Transferring money to a checking account
Most people with both a savings and checking account at the same bank can transfer money between them online or through the bank's mobile app. The transfer is free and usually posts within one business day. Once the money is in your checking account, you can spend it using your debit card, write checks, or withdraw it from an ATM.
If you only have a savings account and no checking account, you can open a checking account at the same bank and transfer the money over. This takes a few minutes and costs nothing. Some banks offer checking accounts with no monthly fee, so this is a practical option if you want more flexibility in how you spend your money.
Transfers between accounts at different banks take longer—usually two to three business days. If you need the money faster, use an ATM or branch withdrawal instead. Some banks also offer same-day transfers through services like Zelle or their own fast-transfer options, though these are not available everywhere.
Requesting a check from your bank
You can ask your bank to write a check from your savings account and mail it to you or give it to you in person. This is useful if you need to pay someone by check or if you want a paper record of the withdrawal. The check is free to request, but it takes time—typically three to seven business days for the check to clear once you deposit it somewhere else.
To request a check, call your bank, visit a branch, or use your online banking portal if that option is available. You will need to specify the amount and who the check should be made out to. Some banks can print the check immediately at a branch, while others mail it to you, which adds several days.
Checks are slower than other withdrawal methods, so use them only when you have time or when the person you are paying requires a check. If you need cash or want to move money quickly, a transfer or ATM withdrawal is faster.
Federal withdrawal limits and what they mean
Regulation D is a federal rule that historically limited savings account withdrawals to six per month. This rule was suspended in 2020 and has not been fully reinstated, so most banks no longer enforce it. However, some banks still have their own internal limits on how many times you can withdraw per month, so check your account agreement.
If you exceed a withdrawal limit, your bank may charge a fee—usually $10 to $25 per excess withdrawal. In rare cases, a bank may close your account or convert it to a checking account if you repeatedly exceed the limit. These consequences are uncommon, but they are possible, so it is worth knowing your bank's rules.
If you find yourself withdrawing from savings frequently, consider whether a checking account would work better for you. Checking accounts have no withdrawal limits and are designed for regular spending. You can keep your savings account for money you want to set aside and touch less often.
What to do if you cannot access your money
If your bank's ATM is broken, the branch is closed, or you are traveling and cannot find your bank's ATM, you have options. You can use an ATM from a different bank and pay the out-of-network fee. You can visit a branch of a different bank and ask if they can process a withdrawal from your account—some banks offer this service, though it is not may provide.
If your account is frozen or restricted, contact your bank immediately to find out why. Banks sometimes freeze accounts due to suspected fraud, missing information, or violations of account rules. Once the issue is resolved, you can withdraw your money normally. If your bank will not unfreeze your account, you may need to close it and move your money to a different bank.
Online banks often have fewer withdrawal options than traditional banks. Some online banks have no ATMs of their own and require you to transfer money to another bank's account before you can withdraw cash. Before you open an account at an online bank, confirm what withdrawal methods are available to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I withdraw all my money from savings at once?
Yes. There is no rule preventing you from withdrawing your entire balance. However, if the amount is very large, call your bank first to make sure they have enough cash available. Withdrawing everything will close the account or reduce it to zero, so make sure that is what you want.
Do I get charged for withdrawals from my own bank's ATM?
No. Using an ATM owned by your bank is free. You only pay a fee—usually $2 to $3—when you use an ATM from a different bank. Some banks reimburse out-of-network fees, so check your account agreement.
How long does it take to transfer money from savings to checking?
If both accounts are at the same bank, the transfer usually posts within one business day, sometimes the same day. Transfers between different banks take two to three business days. Call your bank if a transfer takes longer than expected.
What happens if I withdraw money and then need it back?
Once you withdraw money, it is yours to keep or spend. You cannot undo the withdrawal. If you change your mind, you can deposit the money back into your account, but that is a separate transaction and may take a few business days to post.
Can I withdraw money if my account is overdrawn?
No. If your account balance is negative or zero, you cannot withdraw money. You must deposit funds first to bring the balance positive. Some banks allow overdrafts up to a certain limit, but you still cannot withdraw more than your current balance.