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What you can and can’t do at ATMs

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ATMs are a convenient way to manage your money. They are quick and efficient and more private than over-the-counter transactions. ATMs are usually available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether you’re looking to deposit a money order at an ATM or cash a check, we talk you through the things you can and can’t do using an ATM.

How to use an ATM

ATMs are really simple to use once you know the steps:

  1. Insert your card into the card slot on the ATM.
  2. Use the numbered keypad to type in your pin. This will usually be four numbers.
  3. Select your transaction using the buttons on the side of the ATM screen.
  4. Using either the buttons on the side of the screen or the keypad, enter your transaction amount.
  5. Choose whether you want a transaction receipt or not, using the buttons on each side of the screen.
  6. Once your transaction has been confirmed, the ATM will release your card.
  7. Remove your card from the slot.

Are there different types of ATMs?

While every bank or independent ATM operator will have its own style of ATM, they can be split into two main categories:

  • On-site ATMs – maintained and operated by banks. Usually found at banks, inside or outside the building.
  • Off-site ATMs – maintained and operated by banks or independent ATM operators. Typically installed in places like convenience stores, shopping malls, movie theaters and supermarkets.

At the Kroger Family of Stores, you’ll usually find independently operated Allpoint-enabled and Allpoint-branded ATMs. If you use your 1-2-3 Rewards Card or your card is enabled in the Allpoint network at these, you won’t be charged a fee. Check with your Bank or financial institution to see if your card in in Allpoint.  You may also find bank operated ATMs that allow you to deposit checks and cash or withdraw lower value bills.

What you can do at ATMs

ATMs are useful for quick banking on the go. Here’s what you can do at ATMs:

  • Check your account balance. Before withdrawing any cash, it's a good idea to make sure you have enough money in your account. All ATMs give you this option, and you can usually choose whether to print your current balance or view it on screen.
  • Withdraw cash. Withdrawal limits vary between independently-owned ATMs and bank-owned ATMs. You can usually withdraw up to $400 from an independently-owned ATM and up to $800 at bank-owned ATMs. Withdrawals are free if you use your 1-2-3 Rewards Card at the Kroger Family of Stores.
  • Deposit cash. If you have cash in hand, you can use an ATM to load it straight onto your card or into your account, by following the on-screen instructions.
  • Cashing a check. Cashing checks at an ATM is quick and easy if this is an option. Follow the instructions on the ATM screen and the check will go into your account. Keep in mind some ATMs won’t cash personal checks.

What you can’t do at ATMs

Here's a list of some things you can do at the counter but not at ATMs:

  • Withdraw coins or low-value denominations. ATMs give out cash rather than coins – so if you need to withdraw odd or a small amount of money, it's best to visit the Money Services counter in your local Kroger Family of Stores.
  • Pay bills. You can't use ATMs to pay bills. You can pay bills at the Money Services counter in your local Kroger Family of Stores. Just bring your bill stub, account number and enough money to cover your bill and a small fee.
  • Load checks to prepaid debit cards. You can't top-off your prepaid debit card using a check deposited in an ATM or get cashback instantly. Instead, you'll need to cash the check at Money Services, then deposit the money onto your prepaid debit card.
  • Cash a money order. When you've been paid with a money order, you won't be able to use the ATM to change it to cash. Instead, you'll need to do this using a counter service.

Alternatives to ATMs

  • Use a prepaid card. You can use prepaid cards to manage your budget, pay your bills and purchase goods and services.
  • Cash checks using counter service. Instead of using an ATM, you can also use counter services to cash your checks. This is especially useful if you have a personal check, as not all ATMs will accept them.
  • Using a money order. Rather than withdrawing cash at an ATM, you could fill in a money order form to pay someone. You can do this at the Money Service counter in your local Kroger Family of Stores.

Preventing ATM fraud

When using an ATM, you must take the necessary steps to protect your information and your money. Here are some of our top tips for staying safe and preventing ATM fraud:

  • Protect your pin. Make sure you use your hands to cover the keypad when typing in your PIN. This will help protect it from prying eyes and any hidden cameras thieves may have installed in the ATM. 
  • Give the ATM a wiggle. Check the keypad and card slot don't feel loose. If you give them a tug or wiggle and notice some significant movement, it might be that fraudsters have added devices to capture your PIN and card information.
  • Use recognized ATMs. Stick to using ATMs from recognizable brands or banks to ensure you don't get caught using a fake machine. Every ATM within the Kroger Family of Stores is safe and secure for your convenience.
  • Check your statement regularly.  If you regularly check your statements for any unrecognized activity, you're more likely to spot issues early on and be able to resolve them sooner. 

Find out more information about how you can prevent ATM fraud by visiting our fraud hub.

When you’re looking for a trusted ATM, find your nearest location within the Kroger Family of Stores.

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