ATM fees can stack up quickly, especially when you use out-of-network machines while traveling or running errands. The good news is that many banks and credit unions will reimburse those fees—sometimes automatically. This guide covers how ATM fee refunds work, which banks offer them, and the best ways to avoid unnecessary charges.
How ATM Fee Reimbursements Work
When you withdraw money from an out-of-network ATM, you may get charged two different fees: one from your bank and one from the ATM operator. Some banks automatically refund these fees, while others limit refunds to certain account types or require minimum balance levels. Refunds usually post at the end of your statement cycle, though a few banks apply them immediately.
Banks That Refund ATM Fees
Here’s how major banks and credit unions typically handle ATM fee refunds:
- Charles Schwab Bank: Unlimited worldwide ATM fee rebates for all checking customers.
- Alliant Credit Union: Up to $20 per month in ATM fee rebates for qualifying checking accounts.
- Fidelity: Cash Management accounts refund all ATM fees globally with no monthly limit.
- Ally Bank: Up to $10 in monthly ATM rebates plus access to 43,000+ Allpoint surcharge-free ATMs.
- Capital One 360: Fee-free access to Allpoint and MoneyPass; out-of-network refunds available on select premium accounts.
- USAA: Up to $15 per month in ATM reimbursements; higher-tier accounts may receive more.
- Navy Federal Credit Union: Free withdrawals at CO-OP ATMs and up to $10 per month in other ATM fee rebates.
Tips to Maximize Your Refunds
- Use the right account tier: Premium or rewards accounts often offer larger or unlimited rebates.
- Stick to in-network ATMs: Reduces or eliminates the need for refunds. See our guide to finding fee-free ATMs.
- Track monthly caps: Some banks cap refunds at $10–$20 per cycle.
- Traveling internationally? Choose banks like Schwab or Fidelity that refund both ATM fees and foreign transaction fees.
- Request manual refunds: If you were incorrectly charged, most banks will credit the fee after reviewing the transaction.
Best Banks for Travelers
If you frequently withdraw cash abroad, Charles Schwab, Fidelity, and Alliant Credit Union offer some of the best refund policies. These institutions reimburse ATM fees worldwide and may also waive foreign transaction fees, saving travelers significant money each year.
FAQs on ATM Fee Refunds
Do all banks refund ATM fees?
No. Many only reimburse fees for certain account levels or when using partner networks.
When do refunds appear?
Most post at the end of your statement cycle, though some banks issue immediate credits.
Will banks refund international ATM fees?
Only select institutions—like Schwab, Fidelity, and Alliant—provide global reimbursement.
Is there a limit?
Many banks cap monthly refunds at $10–$20, but some offer unlimited rebates.
