Banks waive ATM fees

Banks have agreed to waive some automatic teller machine (ATM) fees for cash withdrawals nationwide for all banks during the flood crisis.

A woman withdraws money in Bangkok while standing on sandbags. The Thai Bankers Association has agreed to waive some ATM fees for withdrawals across provinces and banks to assist people who don’t have access to their home bank and are far from home.

All 15 members of the Thai Bankers Association agreed to the move, effective from today to Nov 30. It is meant to help flood victims and evacuees, said TBA secretary-general Dr Twatchai Yongkittikul.

Customers can use their home bank ATMs across the country fee-free, but withdrawals from other banks' ATMs after the first four per month, which are free, cost 10 baht.

The fee is a single rate for both Bangkok and provincial transactions. For cash withdrawals across banks and provincial zones, the first four transactions per month are free and cost 20 baht after that.

Bangkok Bank vice-president Kitti Kosavisutte said that although the waiver was for only one month, the bank would consider prolonging it if floods persist.

ATM transactions have increased upcountry as Bangkok residents evacuate.

Siam Commercial Bank executive vice-president Phanporn Kongyingyong said fees for money transfers via ATM may be considered later.

Some 1,200 of SCB's 8,000 ATMs have closed due to flooding. The bank is trying to reopen ATMs in areas where the water has receded. Its primary focus during the flood is making sure residents have access to cash, she said.