How to Use an ATM

**minisoji** · 02-12-2009, 05:41 AM

ATMs, standing for "Automatic Teller Machines", are an easy, convenient way to access your account from almost anywhere. If you're new to them, don't worry. It's easy. The instructions are right there, on the machine.

1. Be alert. As you approach the ATM, look around for other people. If it is nighttime, pick an ATM in a well-lit location. If using a drive-up ATM, pull up close to it so no one can see you enter your PIN (Personal Identification Number). If you are uncomfortable with the area or the people around the machine, find a different machine or use the machine some other time.

2.Take an envelope and prepare any deposits you will make ahead of time.

* Fill out a deposit slip, if your bank requires one, and include it in the envelope. Write the amounts of money you are depositing in the space provided.

* Write the total of all your cash on the first line.

* To deposit a check, sign the back of the check (called "endorsing" the check) with your name as it is written on the front. Depending on the rules of your bank, you may also write "for deposit only" and include your account number, as shown.

* Write the amount of each check on a line of the deposit slip. Beside it, write the "fraction". This number appears on the face of the check, often in the upper right corner near the check number[1]. It tells your bank where the check came from.

* Add up the amounts you are depositing and write the number down where you can see it after you seal the envelope. Then, seal the envelope.

3. Insert your ATM Card into the machine.

4. Select a language. Note that this option often only comes up where your card is registered as being from another country, unless you live in a country or region with languages other than English are in major use.

5. Enter your PIN (Personal Identification Number), then press Enter.

6. Select a transaction.

7. Deposit money. If you want to deposit (put in) money:

* Enter the amount you will deposit. Confirm the amount.

* Insert the envelope into the deposit slot when the machine opens it. Note that some ATMs will not allow you to deposit money. In this case, you need to find one at a branch.

8. Withdraw money. If you want to withdraw (take out) money, select or enter the amount to withdraw.

* Most machines dispense money in fixed amounts. You may be given a choice between common amounts or you may be asked to enter a number that is a multiple of 20 (20, 40, 60, 80, etc.).

* Take the cash when the door opens. Put it directly into your wallet.

9. Choose whether to do an additional transaction. Select Yes or No.

10. Choose whether you want a receipt, select Yes or No. Take the receipt if you requested it.

11. Wait while the system processes your transaction(s).

* When the machine beeps at you, take your card, cash, and receipt (if applicable). Always make sure that you have both your cash and your card.

12. Use the receipt to record the transaction in your check register or passbook.

Tips

* If you make a mistake entering a number or you pick a choice you didn't mean, press "cancel" or "no". Most machines will ask you "is this correct?" to give you a chance to change your entries.

* If you are still unsure how to use ATM, go inside the bank or ask an employee or ask someone you trust to help you the first time.

* Some ATMs provide audio feedback tones or spoken assistance and braille for disabled users.

* Some ATMs have headphone inputs for disabled users.

* Prepare your deposit before putting in your card, especially if you have checks. You can take some extra envelopes and prepare deposits ahead of time, in your home or car.

* Practice using an imaginary ATM with the link at the bottom of the page.

* Some banks do not require a deposit slip. If you're not sure, ask. In this case, you may need to write your account number on the check when you endorse it.

* If your card is lost or stolen, call your bank as soon as possible to tell them it is lost and obtain a replacement.

Warnings

* Always remember to take your card back from the machine. Do this as soon as it pops out. If it remains in the slot for more than 30 seconds after the transaction has been completed, the machine will suck it back up to prevent it from being stolen. If the ATM you are using isn't at your bank, it's unlikely that they will return the card to you - you will have to get your bank to issue a new one.

* If your card gets sucked in as soon as you insert it, examine the slot very closely: some burglars insert a plastic sleeve that prevents the card from being read, and when you go inside the bank, they will quickly pull it and withdraw as much money as they can.

* Some ATMs have a slot where you insert and pull the card rather than just inserting it. If this is the case, examine it very closely to make sure it's all part of the ATM; otherwise, it might be a card cloning device!

* When entering your PIN, be aware of any people that may be standing around you attempting to look over your shoulder.

* Never let anyone see your PIN. Put your other hand around the keypad when you enter your number, and don't enter your number if anyone is standing too close.

* Don't give your PIN number to a friend or relative, even if you do it as a gesture of trust and friendship.

* Never write your PIN on your card or in your wallet or purse.

* Know what charges will be involved with ATM usage. If you are using a bank not connected with your account or using your ATM to get money while traveling abroad, you may have to pay an additional fee.

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**EdmanStrid** · 03-14-2009, 07:52 PM

Hehe, thanks m8, always good to know!! =) thanks alot!

**cfarrell** · 09-12-2009, 09:23 PM

Also remember that most ATM's now accept Cirus and Mestro cards. Your ATM is probably one of these, which means that you can use it at ATM's abroad to get money out of your account back home! This way you avoid buying travlers cheques, and avoid bring too much money with you when you go on holidays.

Check the back of your ATM card to see if it's got the Cirrus or Maestro logo on it.

**hggaba** · 11-17-2009, 08:23 PM

wowwww
good to know

**sudarsan biitm** · 02-12-2010, 08:39 AM

As you approach the ATM, look around for other people. If it is night time, pick an ATM in a well-lit location. If using a drive-up ATM, pull up close to it so no one can see you enter your PIN (Personal Identification Number). If you are uncomfortable with the area or the people around the machine, find a different machine or use the machine some other time.