New Card Withdrawal Limits – Starting June 15, 2025, new ATM card withdrawal limits will be rolled out across major South African banks. This is a key development in the banking sector that will impact how customers access their funds, especially for those who rely heavily on ATMs and physical cash transactions. These changes are being introduced in response to rising fraud cases, regulatory updates, and a push toward digital banking practices. Several financial institutions have already sent notifications to their customers, alerting them about the updated cash withdrawal limits. While this move aims to increase security and limit exposure to ATM-related thefts, it has also raised concerns among cash-dependent households and small businesses. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the new ATM withdrawal rules, including the daily and monthly cash limits, how different banks are implementing them, who is most affected, and what steps you should take to avoid disruptions.
Why Are New Card Withdrawal Limits Changing?
South African banks are tightening their withdrawal limits for several reasons:
- Increase in ATM-related fraud and card skimming.
- Government regulations aimed at limiting cash-based crime.
- Push to encourage digital payments over physical cash.
- Reducing operational costs of ATM networks.
Key Changes in New Card Withdrawal Limits by Major Banks
Below is a table comparing the new card withdrawal limits across South Africa’s leading banks effective from June 15, 2025.
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| Bank Name |
Old Daily Limit |
New Daily Limit |
Old Monthly Limit |
New Monthly Limit |
Change Notice Sent |
Online Adjustment Option |
| Absa |
R5,000 |
R3,000 |
R150,000 |
R90,000 |
Yes |
Yes |
| Standard Bank |
R6,000 |
R3,000 |
R180,000 |
R90,000 |
Yes |
Yes |
| Nedbank |
R5,000 |
R2,500 |
R160,000 |
R75,000 |
Yes |
No |
| FNB |
R4,500 |
R3,000 |
R140,000 |
R85,000 |
Yes |
Yes |
| Capitec |
R4,000 |
R2,000 |
R120,000 |
R60,000 |
Yes |
No |
| TymeBank |
R3,000 |
R2,000 |
R90,000 |
R50,000 |
Yes |
Yes |
| Discovery Bank |
R6,000 |
R3,500 |
R200,000 |
R100,000 |
Yes |
Yes |
| African Bank |
R5,000 |
R2,500 |
R150,000 |
R70,000 |
Yes |
Yes |
Who Will Be Most Affected by New Card Withdrawal Limits ?
This change will affect certain customer segments more than others. Those who rely heavily on cash for day-to-day transactions may need to adjust their habits.
High-Impact Groups
- Pensioners who withdraw their grants in full.
- Small informal businesses operating on a cash basis.
- Individuals without smartphones or access to digital banking.
- Rural communities where ATM access is limited.
Low-Impact Groups
- Users primarily using digital wallets, cards, and EFTs.
- Urban customers using online shopping and bill payments.
- Businesses with access to POS machines or QR payments.
How to Adjust to the New Card Withdrawal Limits
There are several steps customers can take to manage the new limits without facing cash shortages.
Tips for Managing Your Finances
- Use online banking to make payments directly instead of withdrawing cash.
- Set up automatic bill payments to reduce the need for physical cash.
- Withdraw cash strategically – plan for the week or month in advance.
- Consider using multiple accounts if your bank allows it to increase total daily access.
Bank Assistance and Options
If you need more than the new limit, here’s what you can do:
| Bank Name |
Request Limit Increase |
Conditions Apply |
In-Branch Only |
Time to Approve |
| Absa |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
1-2 Days |
| Standard Bank |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Instant via App |
| Nedbank |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
2-3 Days |
| FNB |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Same Day |
| Capitec |
No |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
| Discovery Bank |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Same Day |
Will ATM Charges Also Change by New Card Withdrawal Limits?
Alongside withdrawal limits, some banks are also reviewing ATM service charges. Be aware of possible fee increases or structure changes.
Potential Changes in ATM Fees
- Increased fee per withdrawal above new limit.
- Daily usage cap on number of ATM visits.
- Charges for cross-bank withdrawals may rise.
- Higher costs for cash sent to ATMs via mobile apps.
Alternatives to ATM Withdrawals
It’s crucial to explore other ways of handling your cash needs in the wake of these restrictions.
Digital Banking Options
- Mobile Wallets (SnapScan, Zapper, etc.)
- Internet Banking Portals
- Instant EFTs and QR Payments
- Virtual Cards
Retail Cash-Back and POS Options
- Some grocery stores allow cash-back at checkout.
- Retailers like Shoprite, Pick n Pay, and Spar support POS-based cash withdrawals.
- No need for ATM visits if shopping in-store.
What’s Next for South African Bank Customers?
The shift toward limited ATM cash access marks a larger transformation in how South Africans interact with their finances. While it may be inconvenient for some, it’s part of a global trend toward safer, more trackable digital transactions. It’s important for consumers to adapt by learning digital tools, staying updated with their bank’s alerts, and planning their finances with foresight.
For those who still depend heavily on cash, now is the time to explore alternatives and adjust habits to prevent future complications. Banks are expected to roll out more tools, customer education, and app-based services to make this transition smoother. Stay alert, stay informed, and speak to your bank if you’re unsure how these changes affect you.
FAQs About the New ATM Withdrawal Limits
1. When do the new withdrawal limits start?
June 15, 2025.
2. Can I still withdraw more if I need to?
Yes, but only by requesting a temporary limit increase from your bank.
3. Are grant recipients affected by this?
Yes, but SASSA is coordinating with banks for smoother withdrawals.
4. Do online transfers have any new limits?
No, only ATM cash withdrawals are restricted.
5. Will I be charged if I exceed the limit?
Yes, you may face extra fees or declined transactions.
