Most ATMs in the U.S. still dispense $20 bills—but depending on the bank or location, you may be able to withdraw $1s, $5s, $10s, or even $50s. While not yet universal, more banks and credit unions are upgrading to machines with flexible denomination options. If you’re also looking for alternatives to bank services, see our guide to cashing checks without a bank account.
Why Most ATMs Dispense $20s
The $20 bill has become the default ATM denomination for a few key reasons:
- Efficiency: Machines stay full longer when stocked with higher-denomination bills.
- Security: Dispensing $50s or $100s increases fraud and loss concerns.
- Simplicity: Banks provide a consistent withdrawal experience nationwide.
ATMs That Dispense $1 or $5 Bills
ATMs that offer $1s or $5s are uncommon—but they do exist. They’re typically found at:
- Local credit unions that aim to serve members with flexible withdrawal options.
- Regional community banks with upgraded “Smart ATM” machines.
- College campuses where students often need smaller denominations.
If you’re specifically hunting for an ATM with $5 bills, this resource helps locate them: ATMs that dispense $5 bills.
ATMs That Dispense $50 Bills
Some banks offer machines stocked with $50s for customers who want fewer bills for large withdrawals. These are usually found in larger branches or high-traffic business areas.
- Chase: Many upgraded ATMs allow denomination selection, including $50s.
- Bank of America: Select locations provide mixed bills such as $20s and $50s.
- Wells Fargo: Enhanced ATMs in some markets offer multiple denomination options.
How to Find an ATM With Custom Denominations
You can save time by checking denomination availability before heading out.
- Use your bank’s ATM locator tool; many list whether machines offer $5s, $10s, or $50s.
- Look for terms like “Smart ATM,” “Advanced ATM,” or “Enhanced ATM.”
- Compare bank policies and limits using tools like an ATM withdrawal limits comparison.
People Also Ask: Quick Answers
Do ATMs ever give $10 bills? Yes—certain ATMs, especially at Chase or Wells Fargo, may dispense $10s. Availability varies by branch.
Can I choose which bills I get? At Smart ATMs, you can often choose a mix of denominations such as $5s, $20s, and $50s.
Which banks offer the most flexible ATM options? Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America have the widest rollout of customizable ATMs.
Why don’t all ATMs give small bills? Smaller bills require more frequent machine refills and increase operational costs.
Do credit unions offer small bills more often? Yes—credit unions are more likely to stock $1s or $5s compared to national banks.
Alternatives if You Need Small Bills
- Visit a teller: Inside the branch, you can request any bill combination you want.
- Make a small store purchase: Pay with cash and request $1s or $5s in change.
- Use coin machines: Stores like Publix offer coin counters—see our Publix coin counter guide.
Conclusion
Most ATMs still rely on $20 bills, but an increasing number now offer $5s, $10s, or $50s. If you need a specific denomination, check your bank’s ATM locator or visit a teller for exact change. For more ATM tips and withdrawal options, explore the full ATM Near Me resource at ATMs-NearMe.com.