Automated Teller Machines

ATMs are connected to their banks by telephone lines. When you put your card into the machine, the card's magnetic strip tells the machine your account number and the name of your bank. If that ATM can connect to your bank, the screen will ask for your Personal Identification Number (PIN), to make sure that you're you and no one has stolen your card. Your PIN is your "secret code." Keep it safe; don't tell it to anyone except your parents!

You can use the ATM to take out money, to put money in your account, to check how much money you have, or to buy things like stamps. If you ask the ATM to give you money, the machine uses its telephone lines to make sure that you have enough money in your account. When the machine gives you your money, it will also give you a printed record of your visit. This paper will tell you how much money you took out, and give you the date and time of your visit. Save this receipt, and use it to help you keep track of how much money is in your account.

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