How to Remove a Stuck Card From an ATM
Stuck ATM card? Find clear, actionable steps to resolve the problem and secure your account quickly.
Experiencing your card getting stuck in an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) can be an unsettling situation. Understanding the appropriate steps can help manage the situation effectively and safeguard your financial information.
Actions at the ATM
If your card becomes stuck, remain at the ATM for a few minutes and press the “Cancel” button. This may prompt the machine to release your card, as a minor technical glitch can cause retention. Observe the ATM for any unusual attachments or signs of tampering around the card slot, which could indicate a skimming device.
Before leaving, note the exact physical address of the ATM, the name of the bank operating the machine, and the ATM’s unique identification number, often on a sticker or screen. Record the precise date and time your card was retained. This information is essential for reporting the incident accurately to your financial institution.
Contacting Your Bank or ATM Operator
After your immediate attempts to retrieve the card are unsuccessful, contact your card-issuing bank without delay. If the ATM belongs to a different bank and is located at an open branch, consider speaking with a representative there. Most banks provide a toll-free customer service number on your card or website.
When you contact your bank, provide all the details you collected at the ATM, including its location, ID number, and the time of the incident. Prompt reporting is important as federal regulations limit your liability for unauthorized transactions to $50 if you report the loss within two business days.
Account Security and Card Replacement
Once your card is confirmed as retained or unrecoverable by the ATM, it is important to cancel it to prevent any unauthorized use. Your bank will typically process this cancellation during your report. This measure helps protect your account from potential fraudulent activity.
Following the cancellation, your bank will arrange for a replacement card to be issued. A new card typically arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Some financial institutions may offer expedited shipping for an additional fee or provide instant-issue cards at a branch location for immediate use.
For a period of 30 to 60 days after the incident, closely monitor your bank statements and account activity. Regularly review transactions to identify any suspicious or unfamiliar charges. Early detection of unauthorized transactions allows you to report them promptly to your bank for investigation and resolution.