ATM vs. Credit Card Fees – Which Helps Your Business More?

Credit Card Fees vs. ATM Revenue

Accepting cards often costs 2–4% per transaction plus monthly fees. When you host an ATM, you earn money instead—through surcharge revenue paid by users.

How Surcharges Work

• Customers pay a small fee (e.g., $3) to withdraw cash
• You keep a portion or all of the fee depending on your chosen model

Why Encourage Cash?

• Lower your credit card processing costs by encouraging cash payments
• Increase impulse purchases when shoppers have cash on hand
• Keep profits circulating locally instead of going to card networks

Real‑World Example

A Butler bar processing 12 ATM transactions per day at a $3 surcharge could earn roughly $540 per month, compared to paying hundreds in card fees. The math favors cash access whenever possible.