Can you withdraw cash from a credit card?

Wondering if you can withdraw cash from a credit card? Learn how it works, what fees apply, and what to consider before getting a cash advance.

Women in pink jumper looking at her laptop while holding a credit card

Written by Hayley Bevan and Victoria Smith

Published on November 26th, 2025

Last reviewed on November 26th, 2025

4 mins read

Understanding credit cards

Whether it’s using an automated teller machine (ATM) or asking for cashback with an in-store purchase, most lenders give you the option to withdraw cash from your credit card.

It’s what’s known as a ‘cash advance’ and often comes with fees and interest applied to any withdrawal up to an agreed monthly amount, otherwise known as a ‘cash limit’.

For that reason, it’s better to only withdraw cash from your credit card in emergencies. Treating it as your go-to method for cash could lead to building up more debt that you might struggle to clear.

Considerations when withdrawing cash with your credit card

Before you withdraw cash using a credit card, there are several financial factors you should consider:

Fees

Withdrawing cash often comes with a credit card fee, otherwise known as a ‘cash advance fee’. At Aqua, the cash advance fee is 5% of what you withdraw – with a minimum fee of £4.

Interest

Whenever you take cash out using your credit card, interest is applied to the withdrawn amount immediately. Often at a higher annual percentage rate (APR) than what is charged for purchases.

Credit score impact

Regular cash withdrawals from your credit card can increase your credit utilisation ratio and signal to lenders you’re in financial distress. Both of which could potentially harm your credit score.

If you’ve used your credit card for a cash withdrawal, it’s wise to regularly check your credit score to assess how your financial habits may be impacting your overall credit health.

How to withdraw cash from your credit card

Withdrawing cash from your credit card follows the same steps you’d expect with a debit card or any other type of cash card.

For ATM withdrawals, insert your credit card, enter your personal identification number (PIN), and select a cash withdrawal amount within your agreed cash limit.

If you prefer, some credit cards allow you to request cashback as part of an in-store purchase, transfer funds to a current account, or withdraw cash from within a bank branch.

No matter the option you choose, withdrawing cash from a credit card comes with fees and interest. You might also have to pay a charge set by ATM providers. Or if you’re withdrawing cash abroad, you could also face foreign transaction fees.

What is a cash advance on a credit card?

A cash advance on a credit card gives you the option to make cash-like transactions or withdraw physical cash, either at an ATM, through money transfers, or by purchasing foreign currency or traveller’s cheques.

Whatever the credit limit, you can’t withdraw your total available amount as a cash advance. For example, if your credit limit is £2,000 and your cash advance limit is 20%, you can withdraw up to £400.

Every type of cash advance is treated differently to what you’d typically expect when using a debit card or cash card. Not only can you expect a higher APR, but it’s also likely you’ll pay interest on the withdrawn amount straightaway, as well as other types of fees.

What to consider before getting a cash advance

To help you make the right financial decision, there are several factors to consider before you make a cash advance.

Cost comparison

If you need quick access to cash, it might make more sense to secure a personal loan or dip into your savings. That way, you’re in a better position to avoid higher interest rates and extra fees.

Repayment plan

If you are set on actioning a cash advance on your credit card, make sure you have a repayment plan in place to minimise interest and protect your credit health.

Long-term impact

Frequent cash advances could signal to lenders that you’re reliant on credit and struggling with your finances. Both of which ultimately impact your credit score and ability to secure future credit.

Alternative options

Before you action a cash advance, it could be worth contacting your card provider to explore other lending options for emergency funds. They may have a solution that fits your financial situation.

Although it’s possible to action a cash advance on your credit card, it’s important to be aware of the fees and higher rates of interest that come with every withdrawal.

Frequent cash advances can also signal distress to lenders, which not only affects your credit score but could also make it more challenging to secure other financial products.

For that reason, credit should always be used responsibly by borrowing within your means and paying back your debt on time. To learn more about credit cards, fees, and interest rates, or how to manage your Aqua credit card account, explore our FAQs.

Representative 39.9% APR (variable) for Aqua Classic.

Failure to make payments on time or to stay within your credit limit means that you will pay additional charges and may make obtaining credit in the future more expensive and difficult.

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