ATMs & Getting Cash
Essential phrases for finding an ATM, withdrawing cash, and handling common problems like swallowed cards or fees.
Key Phrases
¿Hay un cajero cerca?
casualIs there an ATM nearby?
A simple, direct way to ask a local on the street.
Perdón, ¿dónde hay un cajero automático?
politeExcuse me, where is an ATM?
A more polite phrasing to use with store clerks or security guards.
Voy a sacar efectivo.
casualI'm going to take out cash.
A natural way to state your plan to friends or family.
Quiero sacar dinero.
neutralI want to withdraw money.
Clear and standard for explaining your transaction to staff.
¿Este cajero cobra comisión?
neutralDoes this ATM charge a fee?
Vital to ask before confirming a transaction to avoid hidden charges.
¿Cuál es el tipo de cambio hoy?
neutralWhat is the exchange rate today?
Ask this at the bank counter or currency exchange desk.
Mi tarjeta no pasa.
casualMy card isn't going through.
Common phrase when the machine rejects the chip or swipe.
El cajero no acepta mi tarjeta.
neutralThe ATM doesn't accept my card.
A clear, standard way to report the issue to staff.
¡El cajero se tragó mi tarjeta!
casualThe ATM swallowed my card!
The most authentic way native speakers describe a retained card.
La máquina retuvo mi tarjeta.
politeThe machine kept my card.
A slightly more formal way to report the emergency at the help desk.