How to Buy Postage Stamps at an ATM

An automated teller machine normally dispenses cash after deducting funds from the customer’s bank account. Some ATMs use a similar procedure to provide other items such as postage stamps. This procedure requires you to have a debit or credit card accepted by the ATM.

1. Contact your bank to obtain the location of ATMs used by your bank that dispense postage stamps. ATMs that carry postage stamps are rare.


2. Insert your credit or debit card into the ATM, as indicated by the instructions. You will be prompted to enter your PIN, a four-digit number used to ensure the customer is allowed to use the card. The ATM will then display its main screen.


3. Press the key for the menu item that reads “More Options” or something similar. This will display the additional options for the ATM.


4. Select the option that reads "Buy Postage Stamps" or something similar. Select the number of stamps you wish to buy, and approve the total price. This total may include a transaction fee, especially if the ATM is not owned by your bank.


5. Take the stamps from their slot. This will be a separate slot from the one used to dispense cash. The only stamps available at an ATM will generally be the standard stamps used for first-class mail. The U.S. Postal Service sells many other types of stamps. The ATM will deduct the total price of the stamps from the account associated with your debit card.