ATM Planning: Three Critical Decisions for Budget Season

October 14, 2026

By Joe Woods, SVP Marketing & Partnerships, Dolphin Debit Access

As credit unions enter budget and planning season, now is the time to evaluate the future of your ATM and ITM strategy. With major technology changes on the horizon, the decisions you make today can have a significant impact on member service, operational efficiency, and long-term costs.

Is Your ATM Fleet Ready?

Of the approximately 500,000 ATMs operating in the United States today, an estimated 75% require a Windows 11 upgrade. At the same time, several major manufacturers are preparing to sunset specific ATM models over the next 12 to 24 months, ending software updates and parts support.

Whether your credit union operates two ATMs or 200, your fleet remains an extension of your branch network and a vital service channel for members who rely on after-hours access to cash and deposits.

Consider the Future of Transactions

As you plan for the years ahead, start by evaluating what your current fleet can do and what your members want it to do.

Expanding ATM and ITM functionality can help shift transactions away from the teller line, improving convenience while reducing operating costs. The average ATM transaction costs approximately $0.70, compared with roughly $4.50 for a teller transaction. Modern self-service technology can help your team focus on higher-value member interactions while increasing efficiency.

For credit unions considering Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs), now is an ideal time to assess how ITMs might fit into your in-branch or drive-up strategy.

Choose the Right Technology Partner

Another important consideration is equipment flexibility.

Many ATM providers support only a single manufacturer’s equipment, which can limit your options and create challenges during mergers, acquisitions, or fleet expansions. Working with an equipment-neutral provider gives your credit union the flexibility to deploy and service multiple ATM brands, helping you adapt as your needs evolve.

Plan for the Financial Impact

Three major factors should be included in your ATM budget planning:

• Windows 11 upgrades to ensure your fleet remains secure and supported.
• ATM replacements for aging or soon-to-be-sunsetted equipment.
• Future ITM deployment and whether new ATM purchases are ITM-capable.

If ITMs may be part of your future strategy, it’s important to verify that any new equipment purchased today can support that transition. Some ATM models are not ITM-capable, which could increase costs or limit options down the road.

A Strategic Opportunity

The coming budget cycle presents an opportunity to modernize your self-service strategy while controlling costs. The right planning decisions today can improve member access, streamline operations, and position your credit union for future growth.

GoWest Solutions partner Dolphin can help credit unions simplify ATM operations, reduce vendor complexity, and evaluate options for upgrading, replacing, or even monetizing existing equipment. By taking a proactive approach now, credit unions can ensure they are prepared for the next generation of ATM and ITM technology.

Contact your GoWest Solutions Team to discover how Dolphin Debit Access can help strengthen your credit union’s ATM/ITM outsourcing strategy.

Posted in GoWest Solutions, Top Headlines.