What ATMs Take American Express Cards?

American Express Cards and ATM Access

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) provide convenient access to cash, allowing individuals to manage funds outside of traditional bank hours. ATMs facilitate cash withdrawals, balance inquiries, and deposits.

Using an American Express card at an ATM depends significantly on the type of card held. American Express credit cards typically offer cash advances, which function as a loan from your credit line. A Personal Identification Number (PIN) is generally required for cash advances, which cardholders often need to request from American Express in advance. This type of transaction draws against the card’s available credit limit but is distinct from a regular purchase.

In contrast, American Express prepaid cards, such as American Express Serve, allow users to withdraw funds that have already been loaded onto the card. These function more like debit cards, providing access to your own money rather than a line of credit. The fee structures for prepaid card withdrawals differ from cash advances on credit cards, usually involving a flat fee per transaction or being free within specific ATM networks.

Finding Compatible ATMs

The most direct method to find an ATM that accepts American Express cards involves using the official American Express ATM locator, available on their website and through mobile applications. This tool allows users to search for nearby ATMs by entering their location, such as an address, airport code, or specific landmark.

When approaching an ATM, cardholders should look for specific logos indicating compatibility. The American Express logo itself is the primary indicator that the machine will accept the card for transactions. For American Express prepaid cards, broader networks like MoneyPass or Allpoint are often supported, and identifying these logos on the ATM can also guide users to surcharge-free options. Some bank branches may also have ATMs that readily accept American Express cards, particularly if they have a direct partnership.

Understanding ATM Transactions and Fees

After inserting your card, you will typically be prompted to enter your PIN. Following successful PIN entry, you will select the desired transaction type, such as “cash advance” for credit cards or “withdrawal” for prepaid cards, and then specify the amount of cash you wish to receive.

American Express generally charges a transaction fee for cash advances, which is often a percentage of the amount withdrawn, such as 5%, or a flat minimum fee, like $10, whichever is greater. In addition to this, the owner of the ATM machine may impose a separate surcharge, commonly known as an ATM operator fee.

Interest is a consideration for credit card cash advances. Unlike typical purchases that might have an interest-free grace period, interest on cash advances usually begins accruing immediately from the transaction date. This interest rate can often be higher than the rate applied to regular purchases. Daily or per-transaction withdrawal limits may also be imposed by American Express or the ATM operator, restricting the maximum amount of cash that can be obtained in a single transaction or within a 24-hour period.