Why Credit Unions Should Have Surcharge-Free ATMs on University Campus’

As we move into an increasingly digital world consumers have more banking choices than ever before such as paycards, pre-paid cards, digital-only banks and payment apps such as PayPal, Venmo and Zelle. This means credit unions have had to get creative in order to attract new members.

One of the most cost-effective and easiest ways to attract new members – particularly Millennials and Gen Z consumers is to offer branded, surcharge-free ATMs on university and college campus’.

Despite the hype, cash is still the most popular payment method for consumers 18-25 years-old and for small-value purchases. According to the Federal Reserve’s 2019 Diary of Consumer Payment Choice, cash represents nearly half of all payments under $10 and 42% of payments less than $25. And increasingly consumers have come to expect the quick, convenient, free cash access wherever they go.

With almost 7 million U.S. students enrolled in undergraduate programs and numbers expected to rise another 3% in the next decade, colleges are a hotbed for small cash transactions. For a college student on a budget, ATM fees can add up quickly. Professors and university staff are also beholden to campus economy, often needing cash access as much as students for everyday items like vending machines, the cafeteria and bookstore supplies.

Having easy access to a surcharge-free ATM provides major benefits to students, especially for money conscious Millennials and Gen Z consumers, and university personnel alike. Custom branded ATMs on college campuses are a cost-effective way for credit unions to attract new accountholders and grow their membership base.

  • Consumers Love Saving Money. College students, especially those on a budget, can save thousands of dollars per year in fees when using a surcharge-free ATM. Providing branded, surcharge-free ATMs on college campuses are an easy way to attract money conscious Millennials and Gen Z, as well as university staff.

  • Convenience. Convenience. Convenience. Easy access to an ATM provides users with convenient access to payday funds and allows them to complete their daily banking without a trip to their financial institution. With surcharge-free ATMs in locations they frequent, college students and university staff are more likely to switch to the credit union that sponsors the ATM they use most often.

  • Time Savings. With no need to leave campus in search of an ATM, students who may not have access to a car or are juggling work and school are better able to manage their time. Providing convenient ATMs on campus are a perk, college students will appreciate. Combined with customized branding on the ATM, signage, on screen advertising and optional brochure holders, ATMs on college campus’ will enhance a credit union’s brand exposure.

With more than 100 years combined experience, the professionals at ATMatWork understand credit unions no longer wish to own or manage ATMs. That’s why our program is hassle-free with no need for credit union staff to load cash or do routine maintenance. There are no upfront out of pocket expenses and our program includes a fully branded bank grade ATM with a 15” monitor that is surcharge-free for members… and most importantly will help grow your membership.

Give us a call at 866.440.4700, send us an email at sales@atmatwork.com. We’ll be happy to walk you through the many benefits of having custom-branded ATMs on university campuses or on-site for employees at SEG locations.