Czech Bank ATM Fees Rise as Shared Networks Evolve

Czech bank customers are facing increasing fees for ATM withdrawals, particularly when using ATMs outside of shared networks. While collaborative efforts between banks aim to expand surcharge-free access, several institutions are adjusting their fee structures, impacting consumer costs. This shift comes as banks balance network development with maintaining revenue streams.

UniCredit Bank Increases Withdrawal Fees

UniCredit Bank has implemented changes to its ATM withdrawal policies. As of the beginning of 2024, the bank discontinued free cash withdrawals when a minimum threshold of 2,000 Czech crowns is met. Clients with Start accounts can now withdraw money free of charge only from UniCredit Bank’s own network or from partner banks participating in the ATM sharing project: Komerční banka, Air Bank, and Moneta Money Bank. UniCredit Bank charges a fee of 45 crowns for withdrawals at banks not part of this shared network, up from 35 crowns previously. This adjustment is intended to support the further development of the shared network and the potential addition of cash deposit functionality.

Shared ATM Networks Expand, But Limitations Remain

The shared ATM network, initially launched by Komerční banka (KB) and Moneta Money Bank in June 2022, expanded in February 2023 to include Air Bank and UniCredit Bank. Komerční banka aims to continue expanding the network, inviting other banks to participate. The collaboration allows clients of the four participating banks to withdraw cash under the same conditions as their own bank’s ATMs. KB has stated that the shared infrastructure is expected to reduce energy consumption and operating costs.

Other Banks Maintain Free Withdrawal Policies

Despite the trend of increasing fees, some banks continue to offer free ATM withdrawals. Raiffeisenbank, Moneta Money Bank, Partners Banka, and Banka Creditas currently provide this benefit without conditions. Other banks, such as Fio banka and mBank, offer free withdrawals with specific card types and minimum withdrawal amounts (e.g., 1,500 crowns for mBank).

Raiffeisenbank and ČSOB Adjust Fees

Raiffeisenbank has also adjusted its fee structure, increasing fees for certain services, including international payments and SMS notifications for original Equa bank clients. ČSOB introduced a 70-crown fee for depositing money into own accounts at its branches in November 2025, while ATM deposits remain free.

Non-Bank ATMs Charge Higher Fees

Withdrawals from non-bank ATMs, such as those operated by Euronet and Point, are generally more expensive. Euronet currently charges a 49-crown withdrawal fee, in addition to any fees imposed by the customer’s bank.

Tips to Avoid ATM Fees

• Use Shared Networks: Clients of KB, Moneta, Air Bank, and UniCredit can utilize ATMs within their shared network for fee-free withdrawals.
• Cashback at Retailers: Utilize the Cashback service at supermarkets like Albert, Penny, and COOP for smaller cash amounts (up to 3,000 crowns), which is often cheaper or free.
• Deposit Machines: Use ATMs for deposits instead of bank counters to avoid fees, which can be as high as 150 crowns at branches.