Cardless ATM withdrawals let you get cash using your phone instead of a physical debit card. Depending on the bank and machine, you can tap with a mobile wallet (Apple Pay or Google Pay), scan a QR code in your banking app, or enter a one-time access code. This guide explains how cardless ATMs work, which banks support them, and how to use them safely.
How Cardless ATM Access Works
- NFC “tap to ATM.” Add your debit card to Apple Pay or Google Pay, then hold your phone near the ATM’s contactless symbol. Authenticate on your phone and follow on-screen prompts.
- QR code from your bank app. Open your bank app, choose cardless withdrawal, and scan the ATM’s on-screen QR code to link the session to your account.
- One-time access code. Some banks generate a short code in the app or via text. Enter it at the ATM to unlock the withdrawal flow.
Banks Offering Cardless ATMs
Availability varies by bank, branch, and machine model, but the following institutions have wide cardless support across many locations:
- Chase. Broad support for tap-to-pay and app-initiated withdrawals at many Chase ATMs.
- Bank of America. Cardless access at most updated machines using mobile wallets or the BoA app.
- Wells Fargo. One-time code and wallet-based access at compatible ATMs.
- Capital One. Contactless support at selected ATMs and branches with modernized hardware.
- Citibank. NFC-enabled machines in many metro areas, with ongoing expansions.
- Credit unions and regional banks. Many CO-OP and other network machines are adding contactless readers as fleets are refreshed.
Where Cardless ATMs Usually Work
Cardless access is most consistent at bank-owned branch ATMs and newer lobby machines. Third-party retail ATMs are catching up but may not support deposits or advanced functions. Always look for the contactless symbol on the ATM bezel or welcome screen.
How to Set Up Cardless Withdrawals
- Add your card to a mobile wallet. Use Apple Pay or Google Pay and complete verification inside your bank’s app.
- Enable cardless in your bank app. Find “Cardless ATM” or “Contactless ATM” in settings or the ATM locator.
- Find a compatible ATM. Use your bank’s locator filters for “cardless” or “contactless.”
- Authenticate. Face/Touch ID or passcode on your phone replaces the card + PIN step (you may still enter PIN at some ATMs).
- Withdraw as usual. Choose your amount and finish the transaction. Daily withdrawal limits still apply.
Advantages of Cardless ATMs
- Security. No magstripe to skim; tokenized wallet transactions reduce card number exposure.
- Convenience. Faster access without digging for a card; helpful if your card is lost or locked.
- Fewer failure points. Avoids dirty or damaged card readers that cause “cannot process” errors.
Limitations and Gotchas
- Not every ATM supports cardless. Older third-party machines may be cash-withdrawal only, no tap or QR functionality.
- Function limits. Some cardless machines allow withdrawals but not deposits or balance transfers.
- Same daily limits. Your bank’s ATM withdrawal limits still apply to cardless transactions.
- Connectivity. You may need app access and a signal to generate codes or authenticate.
Safety Tips for Cardless Withdrawals
- Use bank branch ATMs when possible. They’re better lit, monitored, and maintained.
- Shield your PIN if prompted. Some machines still require PIN entry at the keypad.
- Check for overlays. Even with cardless, inspect the screen and cash slot for tampering.
- Lock your phone. Require Face/Touch ID and enable remote wipe in case of loss.
Troubleshooting Cardless ATM Issues
- Terminal won’t recognize the phone tap. Make sure NFC is on, the card is set as default in your wallet, and hold the phone flat to the contactless logo.
- QR won’t scan. Turn up screen brightness and align the camera squarely with the code; avoid glare.
- App says “card not eligible.” Some debit cards or sub-accounts don’t support cardless; check eligibility in your bank app.
- Declines or “cannot process.” Verify daily limits, travel notices, and available balance; try another compatible ATM.
FAQs
Which banks have the most cardless ATMs? Large U.S. banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Capital One, and Citi have extensive support at updated branches and lobby machines.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay at any ATM? Only at ATMs with contactless readers. Look for the tap symbol and check your bank’s locator for “cardless” filters.
Are cardless ATMs safer than using a card? They can be. Tokenized wallet transactions protect your full card number, and there’s no magstripe to skim. Standard physical safety best practices still apply.
Do I still need my PIN? Many machines require PIN entry after you authenticate on your phone. Some code-based flows may not.