Banks Halt Cash Withdrawals at 1,300 Sites

The landscape of banking is changing, with many high-street branches closing down, making it harder for some customers to access their cash. This shift has caused despair among those affected, particularly elderly people and those with mobility issues.

One alternative offered by Postbank is a QR code generated through the bank's app for cash withdrawal. However, this option is only available at over 12,000 retailers, leaving a significant number of customers without easy access.

The elimination of cash withdrawal options has been a widespread phenomenon, with banks having closed cash withdrawal facilities at 1,300 locations. These locations, which previously offered cash withdrawal without a minimum amount and no withdrawal limit, are now off-limits for customers.

The banks that ended their cash withdrawal service in cooperation with Shell, including Deutsche Bank, discontinued this service after the end of June 2025. This marked the last day for cash withdrawal at Shell stations for customers of these banks.

The reasons for these changes are rooted in the need for banks to keep up with the times and become more modern. However, the difficulties in accessing cash for vulnerable customers remain unresolved. Longer journeys to banks will be necessary for many customers in the future.

It is particularly problematic to access cash on Sundays, holidays, or in the evenings when markets are closed. Until now, there was an option without a minimum amount and no withdrawal limit, but it has been discontinued.

Few customers had used the offer, leading to its complete discontinuation. Cash withdrawal is possible in some supermarkets and discount stores, but there is often a minimum purchase value and a withdrawal limit. The QR code withdrawal service, intended as an alternative, leaves affected customers with no further options.

The QR code withdrawal service has received massive criticism due to its inaccessibility to those without smartphones or who are not tech-savvy. This further exacerbates the problems faced by vulnerable customers who are already struggling to access their cash.

As the banking landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial that banks consider the needs of all their customers, particularly those who are vulnerable or less technologically inclined. Efforts should be made to ensure that everyone has equal access to essential banking services, such as cash withdrawal.