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It’s a common (and frustrating) experience to have to pay a fee when you access your cash at an out-of-network ATM. Especially considering how much ATM fees are.

While there are different ATM fees for different banks, currently, an ATM withdrawal will cost you $4.77 on average. When you are just trying to take out $20, that can be a lot! But no matter how much cash you are withdrawing, ATM fees can be costly.

To better understand ATM fees and avoid paying them, read on. You’ll learn typical costs and smart ways to avert those ATM charges and keep more of your hard-earned cash.

What Are the Different Types of ATM Fees?

Bank account holders typically pay no fees for using in-network ATMs. However, these machines may not always be conveniently located.

Indeed, approximately 60% of ATMs today are owned and serviced by independent operators and their affiliates — not banks. If you use an out-of-network ATM, you could end up paying a fee to your bank, as well as a fee to the ATM operator.

How much ATMs charge depends on the type of fees your bank and the owner of the ATM impose. Here are some typical charges for using an ATM:

The “Out-of-Network” Fee (From Your Bank)

This fee can be charged by your bank for using a non-branded or non-partner ATM. It’s kind of like going to a doctor that’s not on your insurance plan — you might be able to do it, but it could be more expensive.

On average, this charge accounts for about $1.58 of the total fee, according to Bankrate. The fee can apply to any type of transaction performed at an ATM, including withdrawals, transfers, and even balance inquiries. Typically, you will be told about such a fee — with a message that pops up on the screen — before you finalize your ATM transaction.

The Surcharge Fee (From the ATM Owner)

This one comes from the ATM owner, and can be thought of as a convenience charge for using an out-of-network ATM. The average ATM surcharge in the U.S. currently runs $3.19, according to Bankrate. However, surcharges can vary by state and venue, and you may encounter higher amounts in places where ATMs are in greater demand.

If you’re at an entertainment venue or theme park in a popular tourist destination, for instance, you could pay considerably more.

When using an ATM that isn’t part of your bank’s network of machines, the machine should notify you about a fee charged by the bank or company that operates the ATM.

International and Foreign Transaction Fees

Traveling overseas can come with even more fees to watch out for, such as foreign transaction fees on both purchases and ATM withdrawals.

When using an ATM in a foreign country, you can incur a fee of around 1% to 3% of the transaction amount. Some financial institutions, however, have no foreign transaction fees, and can be worth looking at if you frequently travel overseas.

💡 Quick Tip: Typically, checking accounts don’t earn interest. However, some accounts do, and online banks are more likely than brick-and-mortar banks to offer you the best rates.

How Much Are ATM Fees in 2025?

As mentioned above, ATM fees can take a bite out of your money. Here are specifics on how much ATMs charge, as of September 2025:

•  The average out-of-network fee that a bank charges its customers is $1.58.

•  The average surcharge by the ATM’s owner/operator when you use an out-of-network terminal is $3.19.

•  The total average out-of-network fee is approximately $4.77 per transaction.

Why Do Banks and ATM Owners Charge These Fees?

Banks and ATM owners typically charge these fees for several reasons, including to help cover the cost of operating ATMs and to process ATM transactions. For example, the surcharge fee charged by the ATM owner compensates them for the use of their machine. This fee typically goes for the operation and maintenance of the machines as well as to transaction processing costs. It also allows the ATM owner to make a profit.

If you use an out-of-network ATM, your bank may charge you for using an ATM that’s not in their network. This fee may also be a way to encourage you to use in-network ATMs.

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6 Smart Ways to Avoid or Minimize ATM Fees

If having to pay money to access your money frustrates you, there’s some good news — it is possible to avoid ATM fees or at least encounter them less frequently.

Here are some strategies to help you avoid these fees.

1. Use Your Own Bank’s Branded ATMs

Finding out where your financial institution’s ATMs are located in your area, or wherever you are traveling to, can save you money and hassle. These may be ATMs branded with the institution’s name and logo, or in a network of partner ATMs, such as Allpoint or Cirrus.

You can research this information on your bank’s website or app. For example, you can find fee-free ATMs via the SoFi app with just a few clicks on your phone.

Find a Bank With a Large Fee-Free ATM Network

When you’re choosing a bank, find out how big their ATM network is. The bigger the ATM network, the easier it should be to access an ATM, even when you’re traveling. For instance, SoFi makes it easy to find a fee-free ATM near you. When you open a SoFi checking account you have fee-free access to more than 55,000 ATMs worldwide.

3. Choose a Bank That Reimburses Out-of-Network Fees

Not all banks charge out-of-network ATM fees, so it can be in your best interest to shop around and compare ATM fees of different institutions. Look for a bank that doesn’t charge ATM fees, and/or a bank that refunds ATM fees charged by machine providers.

Online vs. traditional banks often have more lenient policies regarding ATM fees. They typically don’t have their own ATM networks, but will partner with large networks and may refund some fees charged by out-of-network ATM providers.

Another thing to consider as you’re choosing a bank is that some banks also charge fees for depositing cash at an ATM, especially out-of-network ATMs. Find out if any bank you’re considering does this, and search for an institution that doesn’t impose this fee. (While SoFi members are not able to deposit cash at ATMs, they can deposit money at participating retailers using the Green Dot Network. Just note that the retailers charge a small fee for this.)

4. Get Cash Back at the Point of Sale

Many retailers and convenience stores offer cash back when you make a purchase using a debit card. This can be a convenient way to get cash without paying an ATM fee. It can be a good idea, however, to make sure that neither the retailer, nor your bank, charges a cash-back fee.

That’s one difference between an ATM card vs. a debit card — with an ATM card you can only make ATM transactions, while a debit card allows you to make purchases at retailers and withdraw money at an ATM. However, you may still be charged ATM fees for withdrawing money with a debit card.

5. Use Peer-to-Peer Payment Apps to Pay People Directly

With a peer-to-peer (P2P) payment app like Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App — or a similar service offered by your financial institution — you can easily pay your friends via P2P transfers with just a few taps on your phone. That way you can avoid a trip to the ATM entirely.

Not only is sending money to friends online generally more convenient than having to go to the ATM, it also means you won’t have to carry sums of cash around.

6. Plan Ahead and Withdraw Larger Amounts Less Often

Fees are typically charged per transaction, so one way to avoid charges is to withdraw more cash than you need, whether you’re using your card or making a cardless withdrawal, whenever you go to the ATM. This can also yield significant savings when you are traveling overseas, where surcharges can be much higher than domestic ATM fees.

You may want to keep in mind, however, that there are usually some ATM withdrawal limits.

The Takeaway

ATM fees can be expensive and they can add up over time. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid these fees. Choose a bank with a large ATM network and use those in-network ATMs whenever you can. If your current bank charges ATM fees, consider switching to one that doesn’t, or look for a bank that reimburses you for these fees. A few simple steps like this can help you keep more of your cash.

FAQ

Do ATMs charge a fee just to check your balance?

ATMs may charge a fee to check your balance, especially if you use an out-of-network ATM. Before you check your balance at an ATM, find out if you will be charged for the service before proceeding.

Are ATM fees higher at airports?

ATM fees are often higher at busy locations like airports that get a lot of foot traffic. Since not all banks or ATM networks are located at airports, the ATMs that are there may charge higher fees for the convenience of using them.

Why do some ATMs have higher fees than others?

ATMs in popular areas that get a lot of traffic, such as airports or bars, for instance, may charge higher fees for the convenience and easy access they provide. Fees may also vary based on different operational costs ATMs or their networks might have.

How do I find in-network ATMs for my bank?

To find in-network ATMs for your bank, check your bank’s website or mobile app.Typically, there will be an ATM locator on the app or website where you can plug in your location and find in-network ATMs near you.

What Is the difference between a surcharge and an out-of-network fee?

A surcharge is a fee charged by an ATM owner when non-customers use their machines for transactions. An out-of-network fee is charged by banks when you use an ATM that’s not in their network.

Essentially, both fees are related to using an ATM out of your bank’s network. That’s why it’s a good idea to use in-network ATMs whenever you can.

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Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

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If you borrowed a federal student loan to pay for higher education costs, you won’t make payments directly to the government. There are a number of loan servicers who work with the U.S. Department of Education to oversee loan repayment for federal student loans.

Understanding who your loan servicer is, and what they do is essential for the loan repayment process.

What Are Student Loan Servicers?

Student loan servicers are companies that take care of the disbursement, billing, and customer service aspects of your federal student loans. They can help you figure out things like which repayment plan you should be on and whether to consolidate your student loans.

Need deferment or forbearance? They can also help you set that up. Loan servicers are basically a one-stop shop for everything you need to know or changes you need to make on your federal student loans.

List of Major Student Loan Servicers & Companies

Here are some of the major student loan servicers:

EdFinancial Services (HESC)

Address: P.O. Box 36008, Knoxville, TN 37930-6008
Phone: 1 (855) 337-6884
Website: www.edfinancial.studentaid.gov

Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, Edfinancial Services has been providing loan servicing for over 30 years. They work with both federal and private student loans, as well as schools that need help with things like financial aid processing.

MOHELA

Address: 633 Spirit Drive, Chesterfield, MO 63005-1243
Phone: 1 (888) 866-4352
Website: www.mohela.studentaid.gov

MOHELA is a student loan servicer headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri with offices in Columbia, Missouri and Washington, DC. They have been around for over 40 years and focus primarily on federal student loans.

Nelnet

Address: P.O. Box 82561, Lincoln, NE 68501-2561
Phone: 1 (888) 486-4722
Website: https://nelnet.studentaid.gov/welcome

Nelnet is one of the biggest student loan servicers in the country. Headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska, they service federal and private student loans under their financial services division. They also acquired Great Lakes Educational Loan Services, began servicing student loans from FedLoans, and are a for-profit company listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Aidvantage

Address: For general correspondence, P.O. Box 300001, Greenville, TX 75403-3001
Phone: 1 (800) 722-1300
Website: https://aidvantage.studentaid.gov/

Aidvantage, a branch of Maximus Education, LLC, is servicing either Direct or FFEL federal loans for the U.S. Department of Education. Aidvantage took over the loans that were formerly administered by Navient, a student loan servicer who stopped working with the U.S. Department of Education in September 2021.

ECSI

Address: For assistance requests, P.O. Box 1289, Moon Township, PA 15108
Phone: 1 (888) 549-3274
Website: https://heartland.ecsi.net/

Founded in 1972, ECSI stands for Educational Computer Systems, Inc. In addition to working as a student loan servicer for federal student loans, they also provide support with tax document services, tuition payment plans, and refund management.

Default Resolution Group

Address: Correspondence can be sent to P.O. Box 5609, Greenville, TX 75403-5609
Phone: 1 (800) 621-3115
Website: https://myeddebt.ed.gov/

Part of the U.S. Department of Education, this organization provides information and assistance for borrowers who have federal student loans in default or have received a grant overpayment. Grants, such as a Federal Pell Grant, may need to be partially repaid in the event the student receives an overpayment.

How to Find Out Who Your Student Loan Servicer Is

You don’t get to pick your student loan servicer, since they’re assigned to you when your loan is disbursed. If you’re not sure who your loan servicer is, don’t worry. Finding your servicer is easy. You can look it up by visiting the Department of Education’s student aid website, which has all the information about your federal student loans and contact information for the loan servicers.

Additionally, in some cases, student loans may be transferred between servicers due to the company’s closure, the expiration of a government contract, and more. Should this happen, borrowers are supposed to be notified of the change.

Can You Change Your Student Loan Servicer?

While sometimes student loans can be transferred from one servicer to another, this usually doesn’t happen simply because a borrower requests it. The main way you can change servicers is if you refinance your student loans from federal loans to private student loans.

By refinancing, you can potentially cut interest costs over the life of the loan, if you’re able to qualify for a more competitive interest rate. Refinancing can also allow you to adjust the repayment term on the loan, though extending the loan’s repayment term may increase the interest costs over the life of the loan.

However, there are also some downsides. If you refinance your federal student loans with a private lender, you’ll no longer be eligible for income-based repayment, and you might lose other federal loan protections like the option for deferment or forbearance or Public Service Loan Forgiveness. This may be important if you are uncertain about your future income or you are struggling with your repayment.

​​Private Student Loans

The loan servicer on a private student loan is typically the lender. Private loans can be helpful for students looking to fill funding gaps when federal aid and scholarships aren’t enough to pay for tuition. They don’t always offer the same benefits as federal student loans, like options for deferment or the ability to pursue Public Service Loan Forgiveness, so they are generally considered only if a student has closely reviewed all other options.

The Takeaway

Student loan servicers are private companies that work with the U.S. Department of Education to administer federal student loans. They manage student loan payments, oversee deferment or forbearance applications, and provide assistance to borrowers with questions about their repayment plan or their student loans in general. Private student loans are generally managed by the lender.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

FAQ

What is the most common student loan?

Federal student loans are the most common type of student loan borrowed to pay for higher education costs. Federal student loans include Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans and PLUS Loans. Approximately 92% of student loans are currently federal ones.

Who are the main student loan servicers?

The U.S. Department of Education works with several student loan servicers who manage and administer all federal student loans. Private student loans are, for the most part, serviced by the lender who made the loan. In some cases, your loan servicer may change. If it does, you should receive a notice of the change.

What do loan servicers do?

Loan servicers are companies that manage the different facets of student loan repayment. They administer the loan, collect payments, and provide assistance to customers with questions related to their student loan repayment.

SoFi Student Loan Refinance
Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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