SBI Waives ATM Transaction Charges for 28–30 September Amid Proposed Bank Strike

Amid a proposed three-day bank strike across the country, the State Bank of India (SBI) has announced relief for its customers. The bank said it will waive charges on ATM transactions from 28 to 30 September 2026, meaning customers will be able to withdraw cash as needed during these three days without incurring the applicable ATM transaction charge. SBI has also said all its branches will remain open during the proposed strike. However, bank employee organisations have said they intend to go ahead with the three-day strike.

ATM charge relief from 28 to 30 September

SBI said on social media platform X that no ATM transaction charge will be levied on withdrawals made from any bank's ATM in the country on 28, 29 and 30 September. This means SBI customers can use ATMs to meet their cash needs during these three days. However, customers have been advised to check the terms and conditions issued by their bank, as the exact transactions covered by the waiver will be clarified through official bank instructions.

Branches as well as digital banking to remain operational

SBI has advised customers to complete any essential branch-related work before the strike, and to use digital and self-service banking facilities wherever possible. During the proposed strike period, customers will be able to use services such as YONO, internet banking, mobile banking, WhatsApp banking and the 24x7 contact centre, in addition to ATMs.

Digital options will also remain available for transferring money or making payments. Customers can carry out routine banking transactions through UPI, IMPS, NEFT and RTGS, meaning they will not need to visit a branch for smaller tasks. However, the report notes that the ease of availability of a particular bank's services may depend on its own operational arrangements.

Dispute over banks opening on Sunday, 27 September

A related issue concerns 27 September. The government has directed public sector banks (PSBs) and regional rural banks (RRBs) to keep branches open on Sunday, 27 September as well. Bank employee organisations have objected to Sunday being designated a working day. Federation leaders of NOBW, NOBO, AIGBWO and AIGBOO, along with Girish Chandra Arya, in charge of the financial sector for the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), met the Secretary of the Department of Financial Services (DFS) to discuss the issue.

Employees demand withdrawal of the order

Employee representatives demanded that the order making 27 September a working day be withdrawn. As an alternative, they sought additional leave and double payment for employees who work on duty that day. According to information shared by the employee organisation, the DFS Secretary responded positively to the representatives' demands and assured them of a favourable resolution.

For now, the key point for customers is that ATM and digital services can be used for banking needs during the strike period, and it would be prudent to complete any essential branch-related work in advance.