What to do if the ATM eats your card.

The ATM does not always work perfectly, and it often happens that the ATM eats the card or simply does not return it. Such situations occur more frequently than one might think. Moreover, the problem of the ATM eating the card can lead to serious consequences. 

The algorithm of actions, what to do if the ATM eats the card, should be quite prompt. After all, often you need to retrieve the card and rush about your business. 

How can you retrieve your card if it gets stuck in the ATM? 

First, let’s start with the fact that such situations happen much more often than may be apparent at first glance. Such a situation always causes stress, which can be difficult to cope with. It is important to act calmly and quickly to minimize the risks of fraud and resolve the issue.

So, it is necessary to understand immediately in which cases this can generally happen. Why might the ATM not return the card: 

1. Often, it occurs due to user error. This concerns entering the wrong PIN code three times in a row or if the user, who previously withdrew money from the card, forgot this card. Then, introducing a second card can lead to unpleasant situations. 
2. The second common cause can be malfunctions in the ATM's operation. These are technical failures or software glitches.
3. In some cases, this way the bank may protect the client. The ATM takes the card when there is a suspicion of fraud. It also happens that the card is on a blacklist (for example, due to loss or blocking).

Don’t forget that the card can also be physically damaged. Poor condition of the card: cracks, worn magnetic stripe, or chip.

All these factors can affect whether the ATM will simply not return the card. 

What to do if the ATM eats your card: a simple action algorithm 

So, first of all, you need to calm down. This is the most important thing. Next, you should assess the situation as much as possible. Sometimes the ATM partially dispenses the card (part of the card is visible to the naked eye). Due to such a malfunction, the ATM “thinks” it has dispensed the card. The second option is if the card is not visible at all and is completely inside. So, what do you need to do next: 

1. For the first Time, while you haven’t managed to contact the bank's technical service, it’s better not to move away from the ATM. Stay at the ATM for 5-10 minutes. Sometimes the device automatically returns the card after completing a reboot.
2. It’s best to immediately write down and document the place where the incident occurred. Specify the exact location of the ATM, its identification number (usually indicated on the case), and the time when the incident happened. This information will be needed to contact the bank.
3. Next, you need to contact the bank's employees. If the ATM belongs to your bank, call the support service. The phone number is usually on the back of your card or on the ATM screen. If the ATM belongs to another bank, find contact information on its surface or online.

After contacting the operator, you will need to provide your details. Typically, this includes your first name, last name, card number, and the address where the incident occurred. Be sure to describe to the operator how and under what circumstances the card was eaten. 

You should also block the card. Even if the card remains in the ATM, it’s better to temporarily block it through the bank's mobile application or by calling customer support. This will protect your funds from possible fraud.

The next step will be to submit a statement to the bank. To get your card back, you may need to write a statement. This can be done in two ways. In the first case, simply submit a statement at the bank, and in the second, use online banking or a mobile application. In this case, documents will also be needed. What is required: 

1. Passport or another identity document.
2. Bank contract (if available).

After this, it’s essential to check the status of the card. After submitting a statement, clarify when and how you can retrieve the card. If the card cannot be returned (for example, if it was damaged), the bank will issue a new one.

How can you help yourself? 

This is an unpleasant process, but it can and should be expedited. What can you do: 

1. Use additional ways to log in, for example, using a mobile application. Many banks in Ukraine in 2024 offer features for instant card blocking and online statements. This significantly speeds up the process.
2. You can also contact customer support immediately. If the waiting time on the hotline is too long, try contacting the bank via chat in the app or on the official website.

In general, in this matter, you need to act as quickly as possible. The sooner you report the problem, the lower the risk of fraud.

If the ATM damaged your card: what to do in this case? 

It is necessary to separately consider the case when the ATM returns the card, but it is already damaged. That is, the card was returned, but it is simply impossible to use it further. 

If the ATM has returned a damaged card (for example, with a torn chip):

1. First, it’s better to block the card. This will facilitate the further reissue of the card. 
2. Next, you need to order a new card. You can order a reissue through the app or at the bank branch.
3. It is essential to inform the bank about the problem for compensation of the reissue costs (if the damage occurred due to the ATM's fault).

These actions will not only secure you but also quickly provide you with a new and, most importantly, working card. 

It is also worth mentioning how to protect yourself in the future: 

1. It is better to constantly check the condition of the card. If there are chips or delaminations, it’s better to change the card immediately. 
2. Great attention should be paid to entering the PIN code. Avoid mistakes, so the ATM does not block the card.
3. Do not move away from the ATM until the operation is complete to ensure that you don’t forget your card. Make sure to take your card after the transaction is completed.

In general, you should always be attentive and cautious with cards and ATMs. If problems arise, gather yourself and do not panic. All issues with the ATM are solvable.