What does an ATM fee apply to?

An ATM fee typically applies when using an ATM that is owned by a different financial institution than the one where you maintain your bank account. When you use an out-of-network ATM, the bank that operates the ATM may charge a fee for the transaction since they are providing access to their machine and network for your withdrawal or balance inquiry. This fee can often be in addition to any fees your own bank may also charge for using a non-proprietary ATM.

In contrast, when you use an ATM that is affiliated with your bank, there generally won't be an ATM fee applicable. Depositing cash at an ATM can also be free at your bank's machines, although fees might occur at others. Credit card transactions do not involve ATM fees since they are not conducted at the ATM but rather at point-of-sale terminals or online platforms.