When it comes to accessing your money, understanding ATM withdrawal limits can significantly impact your daily finances. While both credit unions and banks set limits to protect against fraud and manage cash availability, the rules can vary. If you want to compare the institutions with the most generous daily withdrawal policies, check out our Best Banks With High ATM Withdrawal Limits guide.
How ATM Withdrawal Limits Work
Both banks and credit unions set a daily cap on how much cash you can withdraw from an ATM. This cap is typically determined by factors such as account type, your relationship with the institution, and security policies. Limits can also vary by ATM network — using an in-network machine often means you can take out more cash.
For credit unions, especially those with a community focus, withdrawal limits may be lower than those of large national banks. Still, they often come with fewer fees and more flexibility for members who maintain a good credit history. You can learn more about member perks in our guide to the benefits of joining a credit union.
Typical Credit Union Withdrawal Limits
Credit union limits often range from $300 to $1,000 per day for standard accounts. Some premium or long-standing members can qualify for higher limits upon request. Suppose your credit union is part of a shared branching or ATM network. In that case, you may also have more options for accessing cash without fees — a topic we explore in our post on enhancing ATM convenience at credit unions.
Many credit unions will temporarily raise your limit if you have a large purchase or trip planned. The process is often straightforward and member-friendly, as outlined in our ‘How to Join a Credit Union’ guide.
Typical Bank Withdrawal Limits
Large national and regional banks tend to set limits between $500 and $3,000 per day. These higher limits are often tied to premium accounts or higher deposit balances. While banks may offer more cash access, they sometimes charge higher ATM fees if you use an out-of-network ATM. You can see exactly how high some banks allow withdrawals in our linked high-limit banks guide above.
Choosing the Right Fit
If you value community focus, lower fees, and personalized service, a credit union might be the right choice — even if the daily ATM withdrawal limit is slightly lower. If you need frequent access to large amounts of cash, a bank with a high withdrawal limit might be more practical.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal banking habits, account type, and whether you prioritize cash access or overall cost savings.