Automated Teller Machines (ATMs)

Pursuant to O.C.G.A. §§ 7-1-603 and 7-1-664[1], an automated teller machine, or ATM, may be established anywhere in the state by any bank or credit union with deposits that are federally insured.  ATMs allow consumers to conduct business with a bank or credit union without visiting a branch location or interacting face-to-face with a teller.  The services provided by an ATM may include depositing cash or checks, verifying account balances, transferring money between accounts, or withdrawing cash.  Not all ATMs provide the same services – the services available depend on the bank and credit union providing the ATM.

Consumers should be aware that fees may be associated with the use of ATMs, particularly if the ATM is outside the network of the bank or credit union where the consumer has an account.  Your bank or credit union should provide information on which ATMs are “in-network” and may provide information on fees associated with “out-of-network” ATMs on its website.  Additional information about ATM fees and regulations regarding ATM fee disclosures can be found on the CFPB's website at https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/check-the-screen-for-atm-fees/. 

The Department does not have enforcement authority over the physical conditions surrounding the use of ATMs or other remote service terminals as defined by O.C.G.A. § 7-8-1. However, consumers should be mindful of their personal safety and the security of their account information when using any remote service terminal.  Statutory requirements related to the safe use of remote service terminals, such as adequate lighting, is available at O.C.G.A. §§ 7-8-1 through 7-8-8.

[1] To access these laws or any part of the Georgia Code, please visit the Georgia General Assembly and type in the relevant Code Section (e.g., “7-1-603”) into the provided search bar. (Links off-site)

The Code is provided by the State of Georgia from the Georgia General Assembly's website. In viewing the Code, please be aware that legislation passed during the most recent legislative session may not yet be posted on LexisNexis.