Access to cash in the UK: how to request an ATM or banking hub after a branch closes

Banks are closing branches and cash machines, but under the rules of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) it should still be possible to take out and pay in cash near where you live. If a branch has closed or an ATM has gone in your area, you can formally request a review of your access to cash — and the answer may be a new banking hub. Here is how it works.

What do the FCA rules require?

According to the FCA, banks and building societies must assess how easy it is for local residents and businesses to pay in and withdraw cash, including coins. Where there are significant gaps, they must fill them. A review is triggered either by a change in services — a branch, ATM or Post Office closing or changing its hours — or by a direct request from residents, businesses or their representatives. Importantly, if a firm plans a closure that would worsen cash access, it must keep those services open until a replacement is in place.

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How do you request a review?

LINK coordinates the scheme. First, check what is nearby using the LINK Cash Locator. Then submit a request on the LINK: Request access to cash page — by online form or by post to LINK Scheme Ltd (Cash Access Request), Central House, Otley Road, Harrogate, HG3 1UF. The request must be made in writing. The form has four parts: about you, about your community, the services you need, and the cash facilities nearby. Anyone can apply — an individual, a group or an organisation.

What are the firm's deadlines?

Firms have 12 weeks to carry out a review and publish the outcome. If more services are needed, they must be delivered within 3 months, unless there are exceptional circumstances. If you are unhappy with the outcome, you have 28 days to challenge it, and the firm must complete the challenge within 12 weeks.

What can be put in place of a branch?

A review may recommend an ATM, a banking hub (a shared counter where different banks take turns) or an adapted Post Office branch. Remember that Post Offices already offer Everyday Banking, where you can withdraw and deposit cash using the card of almost any bank. LINK does not decide on branch closures and will not run a new review if the area was reviewed in the past year. Submitting multiple identical appeals does not improve your chances — the key points are assessed. Separately, the government is also reviewing access to face-to-face banking, not just cash.