Banks Cease Cash Dispensing - Over 1,300 Branches Affected
In a recent development, the cooperation between Postbank, Deutsche Bank, and Shell for cash withdrawals at Shell locations came to an end on June 30. From July 1, customers can no longer withdraw cash at the 1,300 Shell stations across the country. This change has left many customers, particularly those without smartphones or those who are not tech-savvy, in a bind.
The reason given for ending the cooperation was the need to keep up with the times and become more modern. However, the Postbank app service, which was intended to replace the cash withdrawal option at Shell locations, is not a solution for everyone. For those who are not tech-savvy, the app may present a challenge.
Fortunately, there are alternatives available for customers without smartphones. Cardless cash withdrawal solutions that do not require a phone app are becoming increasingly common. These include using identification methods like Civil ID numbers or other government-issued IDs at enhanced ATMs or cash machines. For example, the National Bank of Kuwait offers cardless cash withdrawals using just the customer's Civil ID or phone number.
Local financial institutions or credit unions are another option. These may still offer traditional cash access options through branches where customers can withdraw cash with ID and membership details, avoiding complete dependence on digital apps.
Visiting banks or branches that provide teller services is another solution. Here, cash withdrawals can be done in person with identification, even if digital or smartphone options have replaced Shell station or other cash points.
In emergency situations, customers might consider cash advance services or third-party payment services that convert digital payments into physical cash disbursed at designated agents or locations. These often require some form of identification or basic digital access.
The change has caused problems for customers, particularly those who rely on nearby branches. Many customers are unsure of how to access their cash due to the changes. Elderly customers and those who are not mobile are finding it difficult to access their cash due to branch closures. The problem is exacerbated on Sundays, holidays, and evenings when markets are closed.
Longer journeys will be necessary for customers to withdraw cash from affected banks. The Postbank app service generates a QR code for cash withdrawal at over 12,000 other retailers, but this is of little help to those without smartphones.
In summary, customers without smartphones should look for cardless ATM withdrawals using ID or codes (no phone app needed), traditional branch teller withdrawals with ID, local credit union services, and emergency cash advance services with physical pickup. Such solutions help bridge the gap caused by digital-only cash withdrawal systems at some locations.
- The rise of cardless cash withdrawal solutions at enhanced ATMs or cash machines can be a viable alternative for individuals without smartphones who are finding it challenging to access their cash due to the cessation of cash withdrawal at Shell stations.
- Local banking-and-insurance institutions and credit unions, which offer traditional cash access options through branches, present an opportunity for customers, especially those without smartphones, to withdraw cash with ID and membership details, hence minimizing their reliance on digital apps.
