Not even 15 bucks to pay. Banks rise fees

Increasing ATM charges PKO BP They origin increasing discontent among customers. The changes made to the fare of fees and commissions led many to express their discontent on social media and online forums. What precisely is the origin of increases and what does this mean for customers?

Changes in the toll table – what's new?

Since the beginning of the year PKO BP, the largest bank in Poland, updated the fee and commission tables. In the case of cash withdrawals from ATMs another than those belonging to the bank's network, customers must anticipate a fee of PLN 7 to 10 per transaction. Moreover, the usage of equipment belonging to PKO BP may besides be charged costs if the client does not meet certain tariff conditions.

Examples of costs:

• Payment from ATMs PKO BP network: 0–3,50 PLN, depending on the kind of account and the age of the client.
• Payment from ATMs of another networks in Poland: 7 PLN for each transaction.
• Payment from ATMs abroad: from PLN 10 + 3% of transaction value.

Why does the bank rise fees?

PKO BP explains increases in maintenance costs of ATM infrastructure and adaptation to changing safety standards. The bank points out that rising inflation and spending on fresh technologies, specified as biometric safety features and integration into mobile payment systems, force price adjustment.

"Our precedence is the safety and reliability of devices. We realize that fees can be troublesome for customers, so we encourage you to usage modern forms of payment specified as BLIK” “The bank’s spokesperson comments.

Clients outraged – net full of criticism

Not all customers have accepted these changes with understanding. There are many comments on social media expressing outrage.

"We pay more and more and banks make billions. This is not right!” – writes 1 of the Twitter users.
‘10 PLN for a withdrawal from an ATM? Then I halt utilizing cash and choose mobile payments” – adds another net user.

Alternatives for customers

Due to the increases, PKO BP offers its customers alternate solutions that can reduce costs:

• BLISTER: Payment of cash utilizing BLIC code at PKO BP ATMs remains free for most individual accounts.
• Cashback: erstwhile you retreat cash in the store during payment with a card the fees are much lower or do not happen at all.
• Change Account: The bank offers premium accounts that supply free withdrawals from ATMs around the world, but they are charged higher monthly billing fees.

The increasing function of non-cash payments

Experts note that increases in payment fees may be part of a larger strategy to advance non-cash payments. According to the National Bank of Poland data from 2024, the number of card transactions increased by more than 25% over the last 3 years and the usage of cash is gradually decreasing.

"Banks are increasingly encouraging customers to usage mobile payments or cards, which is more profitable for both banks and consumers" – says financial sector analyst Michał Nowak.

How to avoid advanced fees?

Customers who want to avoid additional costs should pay attention to any key principles:

1. Use your own ATM network – withdrawals in PKO BP devices are cheaper or free.
2. Select BLIC Payments – this solution is free in most cases.
3. Avoid frequent payments of tiny amounts – it is better to pay more once.
4. Check out another bank offers – comparing individual accounts can aid to find a more favourable offer.

Will the increase in ATM charges affect the decrease in the popularity of cash in Poland? Experts foretell that yes, but this process will be gradual. Meanwhile, PKO BP customers must get utilized to fresh realities or search ways to reduce costs.