The main ways to access your money
You can get money out of your checking account through an ATM, at a bank teller window, by writing a check, using a debit card at a store, or setting up a transfer to another account. The method you choose depends on how much you need, where you are, and how quickly you need it. Most people use a combination of these—ATMs for cash when they're out, checks for bills, and debit cards for everyday purchases.
Each method has different limits and fees depending on your bank and account type. Some banks charge for ATM withdrawals outside their network, and some checking accounts limit how many transfers you can make per month. Knowing what your account allows before you need the money saves frustration and unexpected charges.
Key Takeaways
- ATMs are the fastest way to get cash, but using machines outside your bank's network usually costs $2 to $4 per withdrawal.
- Teller withdrawals at your bank branch have no fee and work for any amount, but require you to visit during business hours.
- Debit cards let you withdraw cash at checkout while you shop, and many stores offer this service for free.
- Checks take several days to clear, so plan ahead if you're paying bills by mail.
- Transfers to another bank account are free but may take one to three business days to show up.
ATM withdrawals and out-of-network fees
An ATM is the fastest way to get cash outside of business hours. If you use an ATM owned by your bank, there is no fee. If you use an ATM from a different bank or a third-party network, your bank will charge you a fee—usually $2 to $4 per withdrawal. Some banks also charge the ATM operator's fee on top of that, which can add another $1 to $3.
To avoid these fees, find ATMs in your bank's network before you need cash. Most banks have a locator tool on their website or app that shows you nearby machines. If your bank is small or you travel often, look for banks that are part of a shared network—for example, many credit unions belong to the CO-OP or Allpoint networks, which let you use thousands of ATMs without a fee.
ATMs usually have daily withdrawal limits, often between $300 and $1,000 depending on your bank and account type. If you need more than your limit allows, you can make multiple withdrawals, but each one may trigger a fee if it's at an out-of-network machine.
Withdrawals at a bank teller window
Walking into your bank branch and asking a teller for cash is free and has no limit—you can withdraw as much as you need as long as you have the balance. Bring your debit card or account number so the teller can verify your identity. This method works during business hours, which are usually Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with limited Saturday hours at some branches.
Teller withdrawals are useful when you need a large amount of cash or when you want to withdraw money in specific denominations. If you need $500 in twenties for a specific purpose, a teller can do that. ATMs often run out of certain bills or have limits on how much you can take out at once.
Some banks require you to call ahead if you're withdrawing a very large amount—$5,000 or more—so they have enough cash on hand. This is normal and not a sign of a problem with your account.
Debit card cash withdrawals at stores
When you pay for groceries or other items with your debit card, you can ask for cash back at checkout. The store gives you the cash, and the amount is deducted from your account along with your purchase. This is free and counts toward your daily withdrawal limit, just like an ATM withdrawal.
Not all stores offer this service, but most grocery stores, pharmacies, and large retailers do. There is no fee from your bank, though some stores may decline if your purchase is too small or if their register system is down. This is a convenient way to get cash without making a separate trip to an ATM.
Writing and depositing checks
A check is a written instruction to your bank to pay money to the person or business whose name is on it. You write a check, the recipient deposits it, and your bank sends the money from your account to theirs. This usually takes three to five business days, though some banks clear checks faster.
Checks are useful for paying bills by mail, paying contractors, or giving money to family members. You do not get cash when ready—the money stays in your account until the check clears. If you write a check for more than you have in your account, the check will bounce, and you will face a fee from your bank (usually $25 to $35) plus a fee from the recipient's bank.
To write a check, fill in the date, the recipient's name, the amount in numbers and words, and sign it. Keep a record of what you wrote the check for and the amount so you can track your balance. Many banks let you order checks through their website or app.
Transfers to another account
You can move money from your checking account to another account at the same bank or a different bank. Transfers within the same bank usually show up when ready or within one business day. Transfers to a different bank take one to three business days and are called ACH transfers (Automated Clearing House).
To set up a transfer, log into your bank's website or app, select the account you want to send money to, enter the amount, and confirm. If you're transferring to a different bank for the first time, you may need to provide the account number and routing number of the receiving bank. Some banks verify the account by sending small deposits first, which takes a few extra days.
Transfers are free at most banks, though some charge a fee for transfers to accounts outside their network. Check your account terms or call your bank to confirm. Transfers are useful when you want to move money between your own accounts or send money to someone else's account without using cash or checks.
Daily limits and how they work
Most banks set a daily withdrawal limit—the total amount of cash you can take out in a single day. This limit usually applies to ATM withdrawals and teller withdrawals combined, though some banks count them separately. Common limits are $300, $500, or $1,000 per day, but this varies by bank and account type.
If you hit your daily limit, you cannot withdraw more cash that day, even if you have the balance in your account. You can try again the next day, or you can contact your bank to ask if they will raise your limit temporarily. Some banks will increase your limit if you call ahead and explain why you need more cash.
Debit card purchases and checks do not count toward your daily withdrawal limit—only cash withdrawals do. Transfers to other accounts also do not count toward the limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I write a check for more money than I have?
The check will bounce, meaning your bank will refuse to pay it. You will face a fee from your bank (usually $25 to $35), and the person or business you wrote the check to will also be charged a fee by their bank. They may pursue you for the money owed plus their fee. Avoid this by keeping track of your balance before writing checks.
Can I withdraw money from my checking account at night or on weekends?
Yes, if you use an ATM. ATMs are available 24/7. Bank branches are closed at night and on weekends, so you cannot use a teller. If you need cash outside business hours, an ATM is your only option.
Why does my bank charge me a fee to use another bank's ATM?
Your bank charges the fee because they do not own that ATM and must pay the other bank to use their machine. The fee covers that cost. To avoid it, use ATMs in your bank's network or join a bank that is part of a shared ATM network.
How long does it take for a transfer to show up in another bank account?
Transfers within the same bank show up when ready or within one business day. Transfers to a different bank take one to three business days. Weekends and holidays do not count as business days, so a transfer you make on Friday may not arrive until Tuesday.
Can I withdraw money if my account is overdrawn?
No. If your account balance is negative or zero, you cannot withdraw cash. Your bank will decline the withdrawal. You need to deposit money first to bring your balance positive, or contact your bank about overdraft protection options.