If you’ve ever seen your debit or credit card get pulled into an ATM and not returned, you’re not alone. ATMs sometimes “retain” or “eat” cards for security reasons, system errors, or card malfunctions. Here’s why it happens, what to do immediately, and how to prevent it in the future.
Common Reasons an ATM Keeps Your Card
- Session Timeout: You took too long to finish your transaction, and the ATM auto-retracted your card for security.
- Incorrect PIN Entry: Entering the wrong PIN multiple times triggers card retention to prevent fraud.
- Expired or Damaged Card: The ATM may reject a card that’s demagnetized, bent, or expired.
- Bank Security Flags: The system may retain your card if it’s reported lost, stolen, or linked to suspicious activity.
- ATM Malfunction: A jammed or overheated reader can physically trap your card inside the slot.
What To Do If an ATM Keeps Your Card
- Stay Calm and Wait 30 Seconds: Some ATMs re-release the card automatically after a delay.
- Note the Location and Time: Record the exact ATM address and the time the card was taken.
- Call the Bank Immediately: Use the phone number on the ATM or on your banking app to report the issue.
- Don’t Leave the Machine Unattended: If it’s at a staffed branch, alert a teller right away.
- Lock Your Card Digitally: Most banking apps (like Chase, Wells Fargo, or Capital One) let you freeze your card instantly.
Once reported, your bank can confirm whether the card was retained for a legitimate reason and issue a replacement within a few days.
How to Get Money Back if the ATM Also Charged You
If your card was kept and your account was still charged, you’ll need to file a transaction dispute. For step-by-step instructions, see our guide on how to get money back from an ATM machine.
How to Prevent ATMs from Keeping Your Card
- Use Insert-and-Remove ATMs: Avoid older machines that keep your card during the transaction.
- Watch for Error Codes: If the screen shows warnings like “Error Code 72” or “Card Read Error,” cancel the session immediately.
- Stay Alert: Never walk away mid-transaction, even if the machine seems frozen.
- Set Up Contactless Access: Mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay eliminate physical card jams altogether.
Final Thoughts
When an ATM keeps your card, it’s usually for protection rather than punishment. Stay calm, report the issue quickly, and use mobile banking tools to stay secure. If you suspect a system issue, check our ATM error code guide for possible causes and next steps.