Avoiding white label ATMs
Saturday, November 15th, 2008“White label” or “no name” ATMs are bank machines not run by a major financial institution. They’re the bank machines you’ll find in independent convenience stores, bars, subway stations, and even some grocery stores.
Whereas the use of your bank’s ATMs is usually included in your monthly fee (up to a certain number of transactions), white label ATMs can cost $6.00 or more per transaction. A part of this is charged by the ATM operator, but another part is also charged by your bank for using this ATM. (Luckily, these bank machines are required to disclose their fee, and allow you to cancel the transaction.)
While usually less expensive than white label ATMs, using ATMs of bank other than your own is also expensive. Both your bank and the ATM’s bank will charge you a fee.
So when shopping with cash, it always pays to seek out your bank’s ATM. The transaction cost will be minimal, if not free. If you have to, leave early and swing by your bank. Or visit your bank’s website and find ATMs in the areas where you shop.