How long does it take for an ATM card to be locked if it is not used? Find out the latest regulations

1. How long does it take for an ATM card to be locked if it is not used?

The time of not using an ATM card leading to the card being locked depends on each bank's regulations, usually ranging from 6 to 12 months. During this period, if there are no transactions such as withdrawals, transfers, or bill payments, the card may be locked. 

Note, automatic transactions from the bank such as fee collection or interest payments are not included. Therefore, customers should make periodic transactions to avoid unwanted card locking.

According to SeABank's regulations, an inactive account is a payment account opened at a bank with no transactions occurring for a continuous period of 3 months or more (for accounts of individual customers and business households). Automatic transactions from the bank such as service fee collection, account interest payments, or other bank entries will not be counted as customer transactions.

Customers can find out details here or contact SeABank for further information and answers to your questions.

2. Factors that cause ATM cards to be locked - Why do banks apply an automatic card locking policy?

CThere are many factors that can affect an ATM card being locked. Below are the main factors that customers need to keep in mind to avoid this situation.

• No transactions: If the card does not perform any transactions such as withdrawals, transfers, bill payments, or other transactions related to the ATM card for a long period of time, the card may be locked.
• Card not activated after issuance: If the customer does not activate the card after receiving the new card, the card will not be able to be used and may be locked after a certain period of time.
• Card expires without renewal: When the card expires and is not renewed or replaced promptly, the bank will lock the card to ensure the safety of the customer's account.

Reasons why banks apply automatic card locking policy:

The bank applies an automatic card blocking policy for important reasons related to security and account management.

• Ensuring the safety of customers' cards and accounts: Automatic card locking is a helpful measure Protect your card and accountProtect customers from the risk of theft or misuse, especially when the card is not used for a long time. This helps prevent fraud, unauthorized access to accounts and protects customer assets from potential threats.
• Effectively manage unused accounts: The automatic card locking policy also helps banks effectively manage unused accounts, minimizing the number of accounts with no transactions, thereby optimizing operating costs. This helps the bank focus resources on active accounts, improve service quality and bring more convenience to customers who regularly use the card.

3. How to reopen a locked ATM card

If the customer's ATM card is locked and needs to be reopened, Please contact your bank for this Request the right to use the card to be restored quickly:

• Method 1 - Call the switchboard: Customers call the bank's switchboard, provide personal information and card number so the bank can check the card status and instruct on reopening.
• Method 2 - Go directly to the bank branch: Customers bring identification documents and ATM cards to the bank branch for staff to verify and reopen the card.

Method 3 - Using banking apps: Some banks support card reopening via Internet Banking service or mobile application, helping customers save time and carry out procedures easily.

When reopening a locked ATM card, customers will need to pay a reopening fee. Depending on each bank, This fee usually ranges from 10,000 - 20,000 VND. In addition, if there are outstanding fees, customers need to pay them in full before requesting to reopen the card.

4. How to avoid ATM card being locked

To avoid having your ATM card locked, customers can take the following simple measures:

• Use recurring cards: ATM cards can be locked if there are no transactions for a long time. Therefore, to avoid this situation, customers should make at least one transaction (withdrawal, transfer, bill payment...) every 2 months. This helps maintain card health and avoids being locked.
• Check the card's expiration date: Each ATM card has an expiration date, usually clearly printed on the front of the card. Customers need to check the card's expiration date and proactively request the bank to issue a new card or renew the old card if the card is about to expire. This will help customers continue to use the card without worrying about it being locked.

5. Some frequently asked questions

Question 1: Is there a fee to reopen an account?

Account reopening may be free or with a fee depending on the circumstances and regulations of each bank. Normally, an account locked due to lack of information or expiration will not incur a fee. However, if the account is locked at the customer's request, the reopening fee can range from 10,000 - 20,000 VND/time. Customers should check with their bank before doing so.

Question 2: Can I receive money if my account is locked?

Although a locked account cannot perform transactions such as withdrawals or transfers, it is still possible to receive money from others.

Question 3: Can a locked account transfer money?

No, when the account is locked, customers cannot transfer money or make any transactions via app, card or direct account.

Understanding the regulations on ATM card non-use time and the factors that can lead to the card being locked is very important to avoid unnecessary troubles. Customers should proactively check and use the card periodically to ensure the card always operates normally. If you encounter a situation where your card is locked, please contact your bank immediately for timely support. 

If customers need support, please contact SeABank via Hotline 1900 555 587 or visit the website www.seabank.com.vn for detailed answers.