There are rare occasions when the ATM machine acts faulty and retains your ATM card. It is not a cause for alarm, but it can be frustrating when you need quick cash, and the ATM swallows your card. If you ever find yourself in this situation, carefully follow these steps to retrieve your card without hassle.
Be Calm and Assess the Situation
It’s okay for the ATM to swallow your card; you don’t have to lose your cool over the situation. When this happens, keep calm and don’t panic. Take a deep breath and tell yourself that the problem is under control. Then, confirm that the card was not dispensed after the transaction attempt.
Check for On-Screen Prompts
When the machine retains an ATM card, it displays instructions through on-screen prompts. The prompts explain the reasons for retaining the card. Carefully read these instructions to know what to do in such a situation. It’s a basic step you need to take before making any other move, as it tells you what’s wrong.
Wait a Few Minutes
When the teller machine swallows your card, there’s a high chance you’re annoyed and impatient. No matter how you feel, you should relax and wait a few minutes. In some cases, the ATM might release the card after a delay. Stay by the machine for five to ten minutes to see if it returns your card.
Do Not Tamper with the Machine
If the machine doesn’t release your ATM card after waiting, ensure you don’t tamper with it. You’ll be tempted to retrieve your card manually but always resist the urge. Forcing the machine to retrieve your card can worsen the situation and damage the ATM. That’s a bigger problem you don’t want to deal with.
Take Note of the Time and ATM Location
Note the time the automated teller machine swallowed your card and be very specific. Record the location of the ATM and any other necessary details, such as the type of transaction you carried out. Also, you should note the teller machine you used by checking for its branded name or model number.
Check If It’s Your Bank’s ATM
It’s important to check if the automated teller machine you used belongs to your bank. If the cash machine belongs to your bank, you will find it easy to retrieve your card. All you need to do is contact your bank’s customer helpline, and you’ll be guided through the steps to take from there. It’s that simple
Seek Help from Security Guards and Bank Staff Nearby
Bank security guards are likely around to help. Call on them and explain the ATM card situation. For teller machines inside a bank’s branch, look for any nearest bank staff and ask them for assistance. The best way to get help in situations like this is to seek help by speaking out.
Report the ATM Card Retract Error
If the problem persists, call the bank’s helpline to report the ATM card retract error. The machine is programmed to hold back ATM cards for several reasons, such as insufficient balance, damaged cards, or fraudulent activity. It could also be due to a server error. Ensure you contact your bank for assistance.
Provide Required Information
Once you contact your bank to report the issue, be prepared to provide all the necessary information about your account and the transaction you carried out. It includes bank account details, the time of the incident, the type of card used, the location of the cash machine, and other necessary information.
Request Card Blocking
At this point, you should ask for your ATM card to be temporarily blocked. You want to ensure other transactions are not happening on your account while your card is stuck in the automated teller machine. Temporarily blocking your card will prevent unauthorized use. This move is helpful if the ATM is in an unsecured location.
Request a Replacement Card
You have to wait for the bank to retrieve the ATM card. When they do, ensure you check to see if the card is not damaged. In case of a damaged card, you should request a replacement card. For some banks, it can take 3-5 business working days, but some will provide you with a new ATM card on the same day.
Visit the Branch if Necessary
If the process is taking longer than usual, consider visiting the bank. Look for the nearest branch for in-person assistance and faster processing. Ensure you bring with you a means of identification such as your National Identity Card or International Passport. That way, you’ll be attended to swiftly.
Monitor Your Account
Despite asking for temporary blocking of your ATM card, you still need to monitor transactions on your account. Please keep an eye on your account for any unauthorized transactions while you wait for the issue to be resolved or for the new card. Don’t hesitate to raise the alarm if you notice any strange activity.
Follow Up With the Bank
At this stage, you can just sit back and relax while the bank solves the issue, but you have to follow up with them. Stay in touch with your bank for updates. Ensure that they are working on retrieving your card or processing a replacement. To do this, you only need to place a call to ask for progress on the issue.
Update Your Card Information
Once your ATM card is successfully replaced, update any saved payment methods linked to your old card, such as online subscriptions and billing accounts. Also, note any precautions you can take in the future, such as using ATMs inside bank branches or carrying a backup card to avoid inconveniences.
