Ever needed just a few small bills for tips, vending machines, or small purchases — only to find your ATM insists on $20s? Fortunately, more banks now operate ATMs that dispense $5 and $10 bills. This guide explains how to find them, which banks offer them, and how to make sure you get the exact amount of cash you need.
Why Small-Denomination ATMs Matter
Traditional ATMs have long been programmed to dispense only $20 bills for simplicity. But customers increasingly want smaller amounts — especially as digital payments reduce the need to carry large sums. Small-bill ATMs make it easier to withdraw precise amounts without waste or hassle.
- Convenience: Withdraw $5 or $10 instead of $20.
- Budget control: Helps manage spending in cash-only situations.
- Accessibility: Ideal for students, small businesses, and travelers.
Which Banks Offer $5 and $10 ATMs
Not every ATM can handle mixed denominations, but many banks have upgraded machines to include smaller bills. Here’s where to start:
- Chase Bank: Most newer Chase ATMs offer customized withdrawal amounts with $5, $10, and $20 options.
- Bank of America: Many machines now include $10 bill options, especially in large metro areas.
- PNC Bank: Supports small-bill customization through Smart ATMs with on-screen denomination choices.
- Wells Fargo: Provides mixed bill selection at select locations.
- Regions and TD Bank: Frequently dispense $5 or $10 bills depending on machine configuration.
For additional details, see Chase’s official ATM guide on customizing withdrawals and available denominations.
How to Find ATMs With $5 or $10 Bills
- Use your bank’s locator tool: Most banking apps show “denomination selection” or “mixed bills” when available.
- Search online maps: Many Google listings now include “ATM dispenses $5 bills” tags.
- Ask your branch: Local tellers often know which nearby ATMs support small denominations.
- Use our guide: Check our detailed list of ATMs that dispense $5 bills near you.
Tips for Small Withdrawals
- Plan ahead — not every machine in a network dispenses small bills.
- Withdraw early in the day; ATMs often run out of $5 bills first.
- Use bank-owned ATMs for the best chance at getting smaller denominations.
- Try “split withdrawals” ($5 + $10) for exact change.
Are There Fees for Small Withdrawals?
Small-bill withdrawals follow the same fee structure as regular transactions. If your ATM belongs to a surcharge-free network — such as Allpoint or MoneyPass — there’s no extra charge. Out-of-network withdrawals may still trigger a standard fee, usually around $3–$4.
Why Some ATMs Don’t Offer Small Bills
Dispensing small bills requires special cassettes and cash-loading logistics. Banks upgrade these machines gradually, focusing on high-traffic areas first. If your local ATM doesn’t yet provide $5 bills, it may still allow $10 withdrawals or custom amounts using mixed denominations.
Future of Custom Cash Withdrawals
As ATM technology evolves, custom cash selection is becoming standard. Expect to see more machines offering $1, $5, and $10 bills alongside traditional $20s — especially as cash usage continues to decline and personalization increases.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re splitting a bill, tipping, or simply budgeting, small-bill ATMs provide flexibility without added cost. Many major banks already support them, and their availability grows every year. For the most accurate, up-to-date listings, visit our page on ATMs that dispense $5 bills and find a nearby location today.