Need cash but left your card at home—or just prefer not to insert it? Many banks now support contactless ATMs that let you withdraw using your phone via NFC tap (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Wallet) or a bank app QR/one-time code. This guide shows you how to find a contactless ATM near you, how each method works, fees to expect, and common troubleshooting tips.
What “Contactless” Means at ATMs
“Contactless” ATMs support one or more cardless methods:
- NFC tap: Tap your phone or watch at the contactless symbol using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Wallet, then enter your PIN.
- QR code via bank app: Open your bank’s app, choose cardless ATM, scan the on-screen QR, and confirm in-app.
- One-time code: Your bank app generates a code you type at the ATM to unlock a withdrawal.
Find a Contactless ATM Near You
- Use your bank’s locator and filter for “cardless,” “contactless,” or “NFC.”
- Check major networks in pharmacies and retailers—see CVS ATM locations for easy access.
- Search maps (e.g., “contactless ATM near me”). Confirm on the machine: look for the contactless symbol or a “cardless” prompt.
- Traveling? Save a few nearby contactless ATMs before you go so you can withdraw without fees. See fee-free ATM tips.
How to Use a Contactless ATM (Step-by-Step)
NFC Tap (Apple Pay / Google Pay / Samsung Wallet)
- Wake your phone/watch and select the debit card in your wallet app.
- Hold it near the contactless symbol on the ATM.
- Follow on-screen prompts and enter your PIN.
- Choose Withdraw and your amount. Take cash and receipt.
QR / One-Time Code (via Bank App)
- Open your bank’s mobile app and choose Cardless ATM.
- Tap QR or Code; either scan the ATM’s QR or enter the app-generated code.
- Confirm the amount in-app or on the ATM. Complete the withdrawal.
Contactless vs. QR vs. One-Time Code (Quick Comparison)
| Method | What you need | Typical flow | Pros | Watchouts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NFC Tap | Apple/Google/Samsung Wallet with debit card | Tap, enter PIN, withdraw | Fast; no card insertion | Requires NFC-enabled ATM; some cards not wallet-eligible |
| QR via App | Your bank’s mobile app | Scan on-screen QR, confirm in app | Works even if wallet not set up | Not all banks/ATMs support QR |
| One-Time Code | Bank app to generate code | Enter code on ATM, confirm | Low friction; no tap needed | Codes expire quickly; keep app open |
Fees, Limits, and Deposits
- Fees: “Contactless” doesn’t guarantee free. Out-of-network ATMs may charge a surcharge and your bank may add a foreign ATM fee. See fee-free ATM options.
- Withdrawal limits: Your daily card limit still applies. Review ATM withdrawal limits by bank or bank-specific pages (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Capital One, PNC, U.S. Bank, Navy Federal).
- Deposits: Many retail-hosted contactless ATMs are withdrawal-only. Use your bank’s in-network branch ATM for deposits.
Troubleshooting Contactless ATM Issues
- Terminal won’t detect tap: Make sure NFC is on; try holding the top/back of your phone where the antenna is; move slightly and retry.
- Wallet says “card not supported”: Add a different debit card or use your bank’s QR/one-time code flow.
- Transaction failed: Check your balance, try a second in-network ATM, or switch to the QR/code method.
- Cash not dispensed but debited: Wait for an auto reversal or open a dispute with your bank—see our recovery guides (e.g., Bank of America).
Safety Tips
- Use indoor/branch ATMs when possible, especially at night or for larger amounts.
- Shield your PIN even with phone-based access.
- Verify the URL inside your bank app—avoid scanning QR codes posted on stickers or flyers near the ATM.
- Set travel notices in your bank app to reduce declines when away from home.