How do I get a cash advance on my Visa card?

To get a Visa cash advance, either visit a Visa credit card issuer’s branch location or go to an ATM with the Visa logo. A government-issued ID is needed to get a cash advance from a bank or credit union branch, and a PIN is needed to get a cash advance from an ATM.

Visa also allows cardholders whose cards are lost or stolen to request cash by calling 1-800-847-2911. Visa will work with your credit card’s issuer to make cash available to you at a nearby location. This form of cash advance can help you with expenses during the time between losing a card and getting a replacement.

Branch and ATM cash advances are more common, though, and there are a few additional things you should know before doing one.

How to Get a Visa Cash Advance at a Branch

To get a cash advance with a Visa credit card at a bank or credit union branch, simply show the teller your card and government-issued ID, and ask for a cash advance.

If the card’s issuer does not have a physical branch, cardholders with Visa cards from big credit card companies can still go to most other banks for a Visa cash advance. That said, you should always double check by calling the bank and asking about your specific Visa card before heading to the physical location.

How to Get a Visa Cash Advance at an ATM

If you want to get a cash advance from an ATM, first request a cash advance PIN for the Visa card by calling the card issuer’s customer service number. Some card issuers also allow you to get a PIN online.

In addition to the PIN, you’ll need to know your cash advance limit. This can be found by calling customer service or checking your card’s monthly statement.

To complete the ATM transaction, insert your credit card, and choose “credit” instead of “checking” or “savings.” Then, enter the cash advance PIN when requested. Do not withdraw more than your cash advance limit.

Other Things to Know Before Getting a Visa Cash Advance

Cash advances should be avoided due to their high interest rates and fees, both of which apply immediately. Still, the cash advance function on credit cards can come in handy during emergency situations.

Before you get a cash advance, check out the card’s cash advance terms and conditions. By reviewing the terms, you’ll at least know what you’re getting yourself into when you make the transaction.

All major banks would allow you to use a Visa credit card to get a cash advance. But that doesn't necessarily mean you should get one. You will be subject to a hefty cash advance fee (generally 3%, min. $10) and a high interest rate that begins accruing immediately.

It is also important to note that doing a cash advance at an ATM will likely result in you being assessed an ATM owner surcharge in addition to the cash advance fee and high interest rates charged by your credit card.