The UK has a scheme that allows communities to ask for ATMs. That’s in line with the government’s efforts to provide easy access to cash. That’s why the 100th machine installed in Birmingham is surcharge-free. Users won’t have to pay processing or surcharge fees, so every time they use the machine to withdraw, they’re saving cash. Some can save thousands of cash in a year from all the withdrawal fees alone.
Cashless Society
As countries move towards a cashless future, there’s a need to ensure that communities can keep up with what’s happening. That’s why communities at risk of being left behind because they have little or poor access to cash can ask for an ATM free of surcharge. With companies that offer cheap ATMs with modern features, it shouldn’t be hard for these communities to find what they need.
Disappearing ATMs
This is not the first time that free cash machines have been installed in a community. However, many of these machines have been converted to pay-to-use options. That is because they are costly to run. Also, some of the units have been shut down. In such cases, it could be models too outdated that they can pose a security risk for users. Old ATMs with not enough security features can make users and their private information vulnerable. Shutting down those units prevents that security risk.
Communities Respond
Communities have been encouraged to report if their areas have no access to nearby cash. Requests for ATMs from these areas do not all find a positive response or resolution. That is because, often, there are existing machines in the area. The machine needs to be within one kilometer of the area. If that is the case, the request is not fulfilled. However, many of the requests are granted, resulting in the installation of about 100 free-to-use ATMs. That is for communities that have no access to cash.
Why Cash is Still King
Cash is still king for many of the disabled, older citizens, or those living on lower incomes. That’s why access to cash continues to matter. In the UK, the government’s scheme to ensure all communities have equal access to cash helps. With free cash withdrawals, there’s more money for the residents and the local economy.
Credit Unions and ATMs
While that scheme doesn’t exist in the United States, if you want to find surcharge-free ATMs, there are several ways to make that possible. Here’s what you need to know:
- Check out credit unions. Many credit unions have low processing fees. The rates tend to be smaller than the rates charged by banks. It’s not entirely free, but you still get to save on withdrawal charges.
- Look at campuses. Some businesses may install ATMs, free of surcharge at campuses to encourage new members to open accounts with them. It’s an excellent way to boost customer numbers. If you want to expand your consumer base, give this a try.
- Do your homework. You never know when ATMs, free for use, will pop up. Stay updated with the news, so you’ll know when that starts happening in your community.
The process of getting a free cash machine installed in your community is straightforward and simple. All you need to do is fill out the application form and send it along with your payment details to the designated address.
Once the installation process is completed, you will receive an SMS informing you about the successful installation of your ATM machine, along with its location.
What is a cash machine?
A cash machine (or cashpoint) is a vending machine that dispenses money for banknotes, coins, and cheques. It’s also known as a banknote dispenser or cash dispenser.
How to get one installed in your community?
Here are some ways:
1) Ask your local council or government agency. They may be able to help you find a charity which provides free cash machines to communities in need. Alternatively, you could contact your local charity and ask them if they know of any organisations that provide free cash machines to communities in need.
2) Contact your local credit union. Many credit unions offer free accounts so people can access their money when they need it most — like when they’re paying bills or buying groceries. You can get an account with no fees or charges at all, so you’ll have ready access to funds when you need them most! The only catch is that these accounts usually carry an annual fee (usually around $20-30/year). Still, if this sounds like something that would benefit your community, then by all means go ahead and sign up!
3) Ask your local business association. Many associations will have a grant.
We want to help you get a free cash machine installed in your community. To do this, we need to know a few things about you.
