How to fix bad ATM habits

Are you used to grabbing cash at the most convenient ATM's, whether it's your bank or credit union?  For those that do, your balance may be dwindling faster than expected. On Thursday’s Dollars and Sense Derica Williams asks Corey Blake with New Horizons Credit Union about how to fix bad ATM habits.

How can we get to our money without it costing us an arm and a leg?

- First, go to your own credit union or bank's ATMs to withdraw your money. This is the most obvious way to save you from ridiculous fees.

-Use cash back with your debit card. If you're already making a purchase, and if the store offers it, ask for cash back at the time of the transaction.

Any other ways to fix those ATM money leaks?

-Yes, take out the amount of money you really need, don't sabotage yourself by taking $20 or $40 at a time. Be realistic and get what you need at one time to avoid multiple trips.

-Find no fee ATM's. For example, at New Horizons, we are tied to the Allpoint Network which gives our members access to over 43,000 ATM locations nation-wide, surcharge free.

What about getting a refund on your ATM fees?

-There are accounts out there that offer refunds for ATM fees, but look closely. Many have either a monthly limit on the dollar amount, or number of ATM transactions they will refund.

-Another method is that they will require you to turn in your ATM receipts in order to receive the refund. 

Are there any other tips you can give on ATM fees?

-Basically, it's about changing your behaviors. ATM fees are annoying, but avoidable if you take a little personal responsibility and plan ahead.

New Horizons Credit Union
https://www.newhcu.org/