The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced new rules for ATM usage effective January 2026. These include revised withdrawal fees, clearer limits on free transactions, and updated caps for both domestic and international usage. The changes aim to balance customer convenience with rising operational costs of ATM networks.
Starting January 2026, ATM users across India will face updated guidelines on withdrawal charges and limits. The RBI has clarified the number of free transactions allowed per month, after which banks can levy standard fees. The move is designed to ensure transparency, prevent arbitrary charges, and improve customer awareness.
The revised rules also address international withdrawals, setting clearer caps to protect users from excessive fees. By standardizing charges across banks, the RBI aims to make ATM usage more predictable and fair, while ensuring banks can sustain infrastructure costs.
Key Highlights
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Free ATM withdrawals capped with uniform monthly limits
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Standardized fees applicable after free transactions are exhausted
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Clearer rules for international withdrawals to prevent excessive charges
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Focus on transparency and customer awareness across all banks
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Changes effective from January 2026 under RBI guidelines
Conclusion
The RBI’s revision of ATM charges and withdrawal limits reflects its effort to balance customer convenience with operational realities. By introducing uniform rules, the regulator ensures fair usage while strengthening trust in India’s banking system.
Sources: India Cartons, Hariexport, Cosmos Hospital