HDFC Bank, Punjab National Bank, and Bandhan Bank are revising their ATM rules effective April 1, 2026. These changes include limits on free transactions, maximum cash withdrawal limits, and charges for additional transactions. Once these new rules are implemented, customers will need to be more strategic when using ATMs; they will incur additional charges if they exceed the prescribed limit.

These changes will directly impact those who frequently use ATM services. Such customers will now have to limit transactions such as cash withdrawals and account balance checks to avoid additional charges. Let's explore in detail which banks have changed their ATM charges.

New charges levied by HDFC Bank

The most significant change at HDFC Bank relates to cash withdrawals via UPI. From now on, UPI-based 'cardless cash withdrawal' transactions will only be possible during regular ATM transactions. Customers with savings or salary accounts will be allowed five free transactions per month at HDFC Bank ATMs. At other banks' ATMs, customers can make three free transactions in metro cities and five in non-metropolitan cities. After the free transaction limit is reached, each subsequent transaction will be charged Rs 23 plus tax. Previously, UPI withdrawals were calculated separately; however, they have now been included in the regular free transaction limit.

PNB imposes limit on ATM transactions

Punjab National Bank has reduced the daily cash withdrawal limit for its various debit card types. 'Platinum', 'Gold', and 'Business' cards, which previously allowed withdrawals of up to ₹1 lakh, have now been reduced to ₹50,000. 'Select' and 'Signature' cards, which previously allowed withdrawals of up to ₹1.5 lakh, have now been reduced to ₹75,000.

Bandhan Bank has also revised the number of free transactions available to customers. Customers will be allowed five free financial transactions per month from their bank's ATMs; however, transactions other than financial transactions will remain unlimited. Customers will be allowed three free transactions at other bank ATMs in metro cities and five in non-metro cities. After this limit is reached, charges will apply as per bank regulations.

These changes have been implemented in accordance with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines. This will help prevent unnecessary use of ATMs and promote digital transactions. Customers are advised to note their free transaction limit at the beginning of each month. If the ATM usage limit is exceeded, a charge of ₹23 plus GST may be levied on each subsequent transaction. These new rules will come into effect from April 1st.

PC: Navarashtra