ATM and Cash Limits

Banking

ATMs have transaction and daily cash withdrawal limits. Understanding your bank's ATM limits, free transaction counts, and charges prevents unpleasant surprises. RBI mandates 5 free transactions per month at your own bank's ATMs and 3 at other bank ATMs in metros (5 in non-metros).

In detail

ATM free transaction limits (RBI mandate):nOwn bank ATM: 5 free transactions/monthnOther bank ATM: 3 free transactions in metro (Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad) -- 5 in other citiesnCharge after free limit: maximum Rs 21 per transaction (financial) + Rs 8.50 (non-financial)nnCash withdrawal limits:nTypical debit card: Rs 40,000-1,00,000 per day depending on card type and banknClassic: Rs 25,000-40,000nPlatinum/Visa Signature: Rs 1L+nATM maximum per transaction: Rs 10,000-20,000 (varies by ATM)nnInternational ATM use: subject to LRS, charged at forex rates. Notify bank before international travel.

Real-life example

🇮🇳 India example

Riya has HDFC savings account. She made 3 withdrawals from HDFC ATMs + 2 from SBI ATM (metro) in a month. Total: 5 transactions -- exactly at the free limit. Next month she does 6 transactions from own ATM: Rs 21 charge on the 6th transaction. To avoid charges: plan withdrawals, use UPI for small payments.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if my ATM card is swallowed by the machine?
Do NOT leave: note the ATM ID (printed on machine), note date and time, call your bank immediately (toll-free). Bank will hot-list (block) the card remotely. Your money is safe -- ATMs do not process transactions with captured cards. Visit bank branch with ID to request card release or replacement.