All of the press that has been given to teller fees and electronic banking has implied that the latter is an error-free, infallible way of the future. That automatic-teller machines make mistakes has been given much less coverage.
I experienced a malfunctioning machine while depositing a stock dividend check, and the problem took no less than six months to correct. The machine accepted my endorsed check but issued no receipt. I immediately entered the bank, which was on the premises, and that began a long series of correspondence. First I was assured that the error would be rectified in a day or so. After three months I had about six letters saying no error had occurred (despite the fact that I had already obtained a copy of the cleared check (a Fortune 500 company’s), and another six saying my account would be credited. My bank statement was credited and debited so often it was comical. Without the persistence of one bank employee, it still would not be resolved.
Almost a year later, nobody had any explanation for what occurred. If nothing else, consumers should be aware that ATM’s make mistakes. Unless you have a lot of patience, are prepared to argue or are willing to forfeit the deposit, make the transaction in person.
