Did you know that you can withdraw money from an ATM without a card? Here’s what you do...

05/02/2020

Most banks have tools that allow you to send and receive money through an ATM without using a card, even if you’re not a customer of the bank through which the transaction is carried out. This is convenient, for example, if you’ve lost your card or left it at home but do have your mobile phone with you. This service is offered under a variety of names such as “cardless cash withdrawal”, “cash code withdrawal”, “mobile cash” and the like.

Here’s how it works and what you need to know:

• You have to enter the mobile telephone number of the person you wish to send money to (yourself included). The recipient will receive a text message informing her/him of the amount available and containing a secret code. To withdraw the money, all they have to do is enter their mobile telephone number and code at the ATM. It’s that simple.
• Some banks are interconnected and have a shared ATM network on a joint platform, so that you can use whichever best suits your needs. Others only offer this service to their own customers, so you may only use the bank’s own ATMs. Money can also be sent from or to other countries.
• Although banks may charge a fee, some offer this service to their customers free of charge. Remember that the bank must inform you individually and in advance of the amount you will have to pay for the service.
• Bear in mind that the amount must be a “round number”, according to the banknote denominations dispensed by the ATM, as some do not provide €10 notes. Also, for operational and legal reasons, there are normally limits on the amounts you may withdraw in this way.
• Don't worry if you change your mind and decide not to use the service after all: the code will expire automatically after a while.
• If you have a problem at the ATM, you should seek help at the branch where it is located. You should also inform the person who sent you the money, so that they can notify their bank.