Where can I withdraw money from my NYS Department of Labor unemployment card for free?
Got my first unemployment payment loaded onto the KeyBank card but I'm not sure where I can withdraw cash without getting hit with fees. I know there are ATMs that don't charge but I can't figure out which ones. Does anyone know the best places to get cash from the unemployment debit card without paying extra charges? Really trying to avoid fees since every dollar counts right now.
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Mohammad Khaled
You can use any KeyBank ATM for free withdrawals. Also check for Allpoint ATMs - they're usually in CVS, Walgreens, and some grocery stores. The card should have come with a list of fee-free locations but you can also check the KeyBank website or call the number on your card.
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Fiona Sand
•Thanks! I didn't get any paperwork with locations but I'll check their website. There's a CVS near me so I'll try there first.
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Alina Rosenthal
walmart has fee free atms too i think, at least mine didnt charge me last week when i used it
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Finnegan Gunn
Be careful with Walmart - some locations charge and some don't. The safest bet is KeyBank ATMs, Allpoint network ATMs (look for the Allpoint logo), and you can also get cash back at most grocery stores when you buy something. Just make sure to ask if there's a fee before you complete the transaction.
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Miguel Harvey
•Wait, you can get cash back at grocery stores with the unemployment card? I had no idea that was an option!
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Finnegan Gunn
•Yes, as long as the store accepts debit cards for cash back. Most do, but again just ask first to avoid any surprises.
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Ashley Simian
I've been dealing with this same issue and honestly the whole unemployment debit card system is frustrating. Had to call KeyBank three times just to figure out my PIN because NYS Department of Labor doesn't give you clear instructions. If you're having trouble reaching someone at the bank about ATM locations, I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual NYS Department of Labor person when I had questions about my card. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works.
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Fiona Sand
•Interesting, I'll check that out if I run into issues. Right now I just need to find an ATM but good to know there are options if I need to talk to someone at NYS Department of Labor.
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Oliver Cheng
I always just go to the bank branch if there's one nearby. Never had an issue and you know for sure there won't be fees. Plus if there are any problems with your card they can help you right there.
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Connor O'Neill
Another option is to use the MoneyPass network ATMs - they're often found at 7-Eleven, Circle K, and some credit unions. I've used them with my unemployment card without any fees. You can find locations using the MoneyPass ATM locator online. Also, some Dollar General stores have fee-free ATMs but not all locations, so it's worth checking if you have one nearby.
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Lincoln Ramiro
•Thanks for mentioning MoneyPass! I had no idea about that network. There's a 7-Eleven just a few blocks from me so that would be super convenient. I'll definitely check the MoneyPass locator - having multiple options will make this so much easier.
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Mei Liu
Just wanted to add that many credit unions also participate in shared branching networks where you can use their ATMs for free with the KeyBank unemployment card. SECU, Bethpage FCU, and several others around NY don't charge fees. Also, if you're ever stuck and need cash urgently, some bodegas and corner stores will do cash back with small purchases (like buying a pack of gum) - just ask the cashier first. The unemployment situation is stressful enough without worrying about ATM fees eating into your benefits.
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StarStrider
•This is really helpful advice, especially about the credit unions and bodegas! I never would have thought to ask corner stores about cash back. You're absolutely right that ATM fees just make an already tough situation worse. I'm going to make a list of all these options so I always have a backup plan when I need cash. Thanks for taking the time to share all these alternatives!
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Mei Liu
One thing I learned the hard way is to always check your balance before withdrawing cash, especially if you're not sure about fees. I got hit with a $3 charge once at a random ATM because I didn't realize it wasn't part of the free network. The KeyBank mobile app actually has an ATM locator feature that shows you the nearest fee-free locations, which has been a lifesaver. Also, if you do accidentally use a fee-charging ATM, you can sometimes call KeyBank customer service and they'll refund the fee if it's your first time - they did that for me when I explained I was new to the unemployment card system.
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