ATM withdrawal limits control how much cash you can take out of your account each day. These limits are set by banks for security reasons, but they can also affect how often you need to visit an ATM — and how much you end up paying in fees.
This guide explains what ATM withdrawal limits are, how they work, why they vary by bank, and how limits can indirectly increase ATM fees.
What Is an ATM Withdrawal Limit?
An ATM withdrawal limit is the maximum amount of cash you can withdraw from ATMs within a specific time period, usually per day. Limits apply regardless of whether you use your bank’s ATM or another bank’s machine.
Most banks use two types of limits:
- Daily withdrawal limit: The total amount you can withdraw in one day.
- Per-transaction limit: The maximum amount allowed in a single withdrawal.
Typical ATM Withdrawal Limits
ATM withdrawal limits vary widely by bank and account type, but common ranges include:
- $300 to $500 per day for basic checking accounts
- $500 to $1,000 per day for standard accounts
- Higher limits for premium or relationship accounts
Per-transaction limits are often lower than daily limits, which can require multiple withdrawals to reach the maximum.
Why Banks Set ATM Withdrawal Limits
Banks use withdrawal limits to reduce fraud risk and limit losses if a debit card is stolen or compromised. Limits also help banks manage cash availability at ATMs.
While limits protect your account, they can create challenges when you need a large amount of cash quickly.
How Withdrawal Limits Can Increase ATM Fees
Withdrawal limits can indirectly lead to higher ATM fees. If your per-transaction limit is low, you may need multiple withdrawals to access the cash you need.
- Each withdrawal may trigger an ATM surcharge.
- Out-of-network fees may apply to every transaction.
- Multiple visits increase total fees paid.
This is especially costly when using out-of-network ATMs. To reduce fees, review how to avoid ATM fees and locate no-fee ATMs near you.
Using Another Bank’s ATM and Withdrawal Limits
Withdrawal limits apply even when you use another bank’s ATM. If limits force multiple transactions, fees can multiply quickly.
Our guide to using an ATM at a different bank explains when fees apply and how to minimize them.
How to Check Your ATM Withdrawal Limit
You can usually find your withdrawal limit by:
- Checking your bank’s mobile app
- Reviewing your account disclosures
- Contacting customer support
Some banks allow temporary limit increases for special situations, such as travel or large purchases.
Strategies for Managing ATM Withdrawal Limits
If withdrawal limits are restricting access to your money, these strategies can help:
- Withdraw the maximum allowed in one transaction.
- Use bank-owned or no-fee ATMs to avoid surcharges.
- Plan withdrawals ahead of time.
- Ask your bank about higher limits or temporary increases.
For a deeper look at limits across different banks and scenarios, see our cash withdrawal limits guide.
International Withdrawal Limits and Travel
When traveling internationally, withdrawal limits still apply and may be lower than domestic limits. Combined with foreign ATM fees and exchange rate markups, costs can rise quickly.
Before traveling, review how ATM exchange rates work to avoid unnecessary charges.
Bottom Line
ATM withdrawal limits are designed to protect your account, but they can also lead to extra fees if not managed carefully. Understanding your limits, planning withdrawals, and using no-fee ATMs can help you access cash efficiently while avoiding unnecessary costs.
To reduce fees tied to withdrawal limits, explore no-fee ATMs and review ATM fee avoidance strategies.