Withdrawing money in New York: Tips and information
Published on 29 January 2024,. Last updated on 20 December 2025,
New York Info
New York is a city that never sleeps, and that also applies to payment transactions. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee in Brooklyn or taking a taxi in Manhattan, you’ll have to pay regularly. But how exactly does withdrawing money in New York work as a tourist from Europe? Do you need cash? Can you use your European debit or credit card? And how much does it all cost? In this blog post, I’ll explain all about it.
Do you need to carry cash in New York?
Although New York is very digital, it’s still useful to have some cash on hand. Think of it for tips in restaurants, small purchases in local shops, or from street vendors. Many places accept card payments, but not everywhere. Especially at food trucks or street markets, cash is sometimes the only option. Therefore, it’s wise to always carry a small amount of cash, for example, between $200 and $300.
Please note: Upon arrival at the airport, customs officials may ask how much money you have on you. This isn’t a check on large sums of money, but is intended to ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in New York. If you can’t prove you have cash or access to payment methods, this may raise questions. So make sure you can demonstrate your financial independence during your trip.
How much cash can you bring to New York?
If you’re traveling to the United States, you’re allowed to bring up to $10,000 (or the equivalent in euros) in cash without declaring it to customs. For most tourists, that’s obviously much more than necessary. Personally, I recommend bringing a maximum of $200 to $300 in cash.
Can you withdraw cash in New York?
Yes, you can easily withdraw cash as a tourist in New York. ATMs are available everywhere in the city, especially at banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Citibank. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Not all ATMs are equally affordable. Some charge high fees per transaction, especially those in tourist areas or shops.
Therefore, always try to withdraw money from an ATM at a major bank instead of a standalone machine on the street or in a shop.
How much does it cost to withdraw cash in New York?
Unfortunately, withdrawing cash in New York isn’t free. Banks can charge fixed fees, usually between $2 and $5 per transaction. In addition, a percentage of the withdrawn amount is sometimes added, especially with smaller ATM providers. Be careful before confirming the transaction, as the screen usually shows the fees upfront.
Furthermore, your own bank in Europe often charges an exchange rate surcharge of 1 to 3 percent.
Tip: It’s better to withdraw a large amount at once instead of multiple small withdrawals. This can significantly reduce costs.
Can You Pay with Your European debit card in New York?
No, you can’t pay with a traditional European debit card in New York. Most Dutch and Belgian debit cards still work with Maestro or V-Pay, and these payment systems aren’t supported in the United States. Starting in 2026, more and more European banks will switch to debit cards that work with Mastercard or Visa. You can use these cards for payments in New York.
Therefore, before you leave, check whether you still have a traditional debit card or one with the Mastercard or Visa logo. It’s also highly recommended that you bring a credit card, as you usually can’t book a hotel without one.
Can you pay by credit card in New York?
Yes, you can pay with a credit card almost everywhere in New York. Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted. A credit card also offers extra protection for purchases and is useful if you have unexpected expenses.
Can you pay for the New York subway with a credit card?
Yes, that’s possible. Since the introduction of OMNY, the new subway payment system, you can easily pay with your credit card. You can also use your phone or a debit card to pay on New York City’s public transportation system.
My experience with withdrawing money in New York
From personal experience, I can say that I withdraw relatively little cash in New York. I usually make sure I have a few hundred dollars in cash on me. Only when that amount is almost gone do I withdraw another equivalent amount from a bank.
I mainly use this cash for everyday expenses, such as food and drinks, small purchases, or tips. For larger purchases, such as clothing or sneakers in stores like the Nike Store, I almost always pay with my credit card. It’s not only practical, but also safer and often better insured.
I also always use my credit card on public transport, such as the New York subway, via the OMNY system. It’s fast, reliable, and prevents me from needing separate subway tickets or extra cash.
Based on my own travels, I recommend using cash mainly for smaller expenses and always carrying a valid credit card. This gives you the most flexibility during your stay in New York.
My tips for withdrawing money in New York
Finally, here are a few handy tips for you if you need to withdraw money in New York:
1. Use ATMs from major banks – Avoid ATMs in shops or tourist areas; they often charge extra fees and can be unreliable.
2. Use a credit card whenever possible – It’s usually cheaper and safer than withdrawing cash, and many shops and hotels only accept credit cards.
3. Always carry some cash – This is often necessary for tips and small purchases, as card payments aren’t accepted everywhere.
New York Info
Hoi, ik ben Edward en gek op New York. Ik heb de stad de afgelopen jaren meerdere keren bezocht en deel op New York Info mijn persoonlijke ervaringen, praktische tips en aanraders om jou te helpen bij het plannen van jouw trip naar New York.
Are you going on a city break to New York and would like to visit some of the sights and attractions, take advantage of the offers below and save money on your admission tickets.
Hi, I’m Edward and I’m crazy about New York. I’ve visited the city several times in recent years, and on New York Info I share my personal experiences, practical tips, and recommendations to help you plan your trip to New York. If you have any questions, please send me an email.
Cheap internet in New York
Want to make cheap calls and use the internet in New York? Read our tips
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Withdrawing money in New York: Tips and information
New York is a city that never sleeps, and that also applies to payment transactions. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee in Brooklyn or taking a taxi in Manhattan, you’ll have to pay regularly. But how exactly does withdrawing money in New York work as a tourist from Europe? Do you need cash? Can you use your European debit or credit card? And how much does it all cost? In this blog post, I’ll explain all about it.
Do you need to carry cash in New York?
Although New York is very digital, it’s still useful to have some cash on hand. Think of it for tips in restaurants, small purchases in local shops, or from street vendors. Many places accept card payments, but not everywhere. Especially at food trucks or street markets, cash is sometimes the only option. Therefore, it’s wise to always carry a small amount of cash, for example, between $200 and $300.
Please note: Upon arrival at the airport, customs officials may ask how much money you have on you. This isn’t a check on large sums of money, but is intended to ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in New York. If you can’t prove you have cash or access to payment methods, this may raise questions. So make sure you can demonstrate your financial independence during your trip.
How much cash can you bring to New York?
If you’re traveling to the United States, you’re allowed to bring up to $10,000 (or the equivalent in euros) in cash without declaring it to customs. For most tourists, that’s obviously much more than necessary. Personally, I recommend bringing a maximum of $200 to $300 in cash.
Can you withdraw cash in New York?
Yes, you can easily withdraw cash as a tourist in New York. ATMs are available everywhere in the city, especially at banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Citibank. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Not all ATMs are equally affordable. Some charge high fees per transaction, especially those in tourist areas or shops.
Therefore, always try to withdraw money from an ATM at a major bank instead of a standalone machine on the street or in a shop.
How much does it cost to withdraw cash in New York?
Unfortunately, withdrawing cash in New York isn’t free. Banks can charge fixed fees, usually between $2 and $5 per transaction. In addition, a percentage of the withdrawn amount is sometimes added, especially with smaller ATM providers. Be careful before confirming the transaction, as the screen usually shows the fees upfront.
Furthermore, your own bank in Europe often charges an exchange rate surcharge of 1 to 3 percent.
Tip: It’s better to withdraw a large amount at once instead of multiple small withdrawals. This can significantly reduce costs.
Can You Pay with Your European debit card in New York?
No, you can’t pay with a traditional European debit card in New York. Most Dutch and Belgian debit cards still work with Maestro or V-Pay, and these payment systems aren’t supported in the United States. Starting in 2026, more and more European banks will switch to debit cards that work with Mastercard or Visa. You can use these cards for payments in New York.
Therefore, before you leave, check whether you still have a traditional debit card or one with the Mastercard or Visa logo. It’s also highly recommended that you bring a credit card, as you usually can’t book a hotel without one.
Can you pay by credit card in New York?
Yes, you can pay with a credit card almost everywhere in New York. Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted. A credit card also offers extra protection for purchases and is useful if you have unexpected expenses.
Can you pay for the New York subway with a credit card?
Yes, that’s possible. Since the introduction of OMNY, the new subway payment system, you can easily pay with your credit card. You can also use your phone or a debit card to pay on New York City’s public transportation system.
My experience with withdrawing money in New York
From personal experience, I can say that I withdraw relatively little cash in New York. I usually make sure I have a few hundred dollars in cash on me. Only when that amount is almost gone do I withdraw another equivalent amount from a bank.
I mainly use this cash for everyday expenses, such as food and drinks, small purchases, or tips. For larger purchases, such as clothing or sneakers in stores like the Nike Store, I almost always pay with my credit card. It’s not only practical, but also safer and often better insured.
I also always use my credit card on public transport, such as the New York subway, via the OMNY system. It’s fast, reliable, and prevents me from needing separate subway tickets or extra cash.
Based on my own travels, I recommend using cash mainly for smaller expenses and always carrying a valid credit card. This gives you the most flexibility during your stay in New York.
My tips for withdrawing money in New York
Finally, here are a few handy tips for you if you need to withdraw money in New York:
1. Use ATMs from major banks – Avoid ATMs in shops or tourist areas; they often charge extra fees and can be unreliable.
2. Use a credit card whenever possible – It’s usually cheaper and safer than withdrawing cash, and many shops and hotels only accept credit cards.
3. Always carry some cash – This is often necessary for tips and small purchases, as card payments aren’t accepted everywhere.
New York Info
Hoi, ik ben Edward en gek op New York. Ik heb de stad de afgelopen jaren meerdere keren bezocht en deel op New York Info mijn persoonlijke ervaringen, praktische tips en aanraders om jou te helpen bij het plannen van jouw trip naar New York.
Special offers for a city trip to New York
Are you going on a city break to New York and would like to visit some of the sights and attractions, take advantage of the offers below and save money on your admission tickets.
About New York Info
Hi, I’m Edward and I’m crazy about New York. I’ve visited the city several times in recent years, and on New York Info I share my personal experiences, practical tips, and recommendations to help you plan your trip to New York. If you have any questions, please send me an email.
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Want to make cheap calls and use the internet in New York? Read our tips
Cheap New York Yankees Tickets
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