The Fundi Card is a popular tool used by students across South Africa. It helps manage and access education-related funds securely and easily. Many students receive allowances through this card for tuition, textbooks, accommodation, meals, and transport. In some cases, students are allowed to withdraw part of their allowances as cash.
As of 2025, the Fundi Card continues to be widely accepted and supported. Students who are eligible for cash allowances can use their cards at supported ATMs to withdraw money. Knowing how to do this safely and correctly is essential.
Can You Withdraw Cash from a Fundi Card?
Not every Fundi Card allows cash withdrawals by default. The ability to withdraw depends on the type of allowance you receive and the rules set by your educational institution or sponsor. If your card is loaded with a cash wallet, you can withdraw money from ATMs just like a regular debit card.
Students must confirm with their institution or Fundi whether their cards support cash withdrawals. Once confirmed, withdrawing is simple and follows the same basic process as using any bank card at an ATM.
Requirements for Withdrawing Cash from a Fundi Card
Before heading to an ATM, make sure you have the following:
- A Fundi Card that is activated and has funds available
- A working PIN code linked to the card
- Access to a supported ATM (usually a South African bank ATM like FNB, ABSA, Capitec, Nedbank, or Standard Bank)
It’s also important to ensure the funds are in the Cash Wallet section of your Fundi account. If your money is in a dedicated wallet like Book Allowance, Meal Allowance, or Accommodation, you won’t be able to withdraw it as cash.
You can log into your Fundi profile online or via the Fundi mobile app to check wallet balances and available funds.
Step-by-Step Guide to Withdrawing Cash from Your Fundi Card at an ATM
Follow these steps to withdraw money from your Fundi Card safely and without errors:
1. Visit a Supported ATM
Go to any nearby ATM operated by a major South African bank. Most ATMs that accept Mastercard or Visa cards will also accept Fundi Cards.
2. Insert Your Fundi Card
Place your card into the ATM slot. Make sure the chip is facing the right direction. Wait for the ATM to process and display the main menu.
3. Enter Your PIN Code
Use the keypad to enter your secure 4-digit PIN. Make sure no one is watching when you do this.
4. Choose the “Withdraw Cash” Option
Once logged in, choose the “Withdraw Cash” or “Cash Withdrawal” option. Some machines may show this as “Savings” or “Cheque” account.
5. Select the Account Type
In most cases, select “Cheque” or “Savings” when asked which account to use. Either one usually works with Fundi Cards.
6. Enter the Withdrawal Amount
Type the amount of cash you want to withdraw. Ensure that it is not more than the balance in your Cash Wallet.
7. Collect Your Cash and Receipt
The ATM will dispense the cash, and you will also receive a printed receipt. Don’t forget to remove your Fundi Card before leaving.
Helpful Tips When Using Fundi Card at ATMs
Using a Fundi Card at an ATM is simple, but keeping these tips in mind can improve your experience and safety:
- Check Your Balance First: Always know your available balance before trying to withdraw. Use the Fundi portal or app to monitor your funds.
- Use ATMs in Safe Areas: Prefer ATMs located inside malls, banks, or other secure places.
- Avoid Late-Night Withdrawals: If possible, avoid using ATMs at night, especially in isolated areas.
- Protect Your PIN: Never share your PIN with anyone, and cover the keypad when entering it.
- Keep Track of Receipts: Keep your ATM slips until you’ve confirmed the correct amount was withdrawn.
- Report Issues Quickly: If the ATM doesn’t dispense cash or your card gets swallowed, report it to the ATM’s bank and to Fundi immediately.
How to Know If Your Fundi Card Is Eligible for ATM Withdrawals
Some students face confusion when trying to use their Fundi Card for cash withdrawals. Here are steps to confirm eligibility:
- Contact Fundi Support
Call Fundi at 0860 55 55 44 or email support@fundi.co.za to ask if your card has a cash wallet enabled. - Ask Your Institution’s Financial Aid Office
Your school or university’s bursary or financial aid department can also tell you if your allowances can be withdrawn as cash. - Log In to Your Fundi Online Profile
Use your Fundi online dashboard to view your wallet breakdown. Only the Cash Wallet is eligible for ATM withdrawals.
If your funds are strictly allocated to specific purposes like tuition or textbooks, then ATM access will not be available.
Reasons Why a Fundi Card Might Not Work at an ATM
Sometimes, a Fundi Card might not allow a cash withdrawal. Below are the most common reasons and how to address them:
- Funds Are in the Wrong Wallet: Make sure the money is in the Cash Wallet, not in other non-withdrawable wallets.
- Incorrect PIN: If you enter the wrong PIN multiple times, your card might get blocked. Contact Fundi to reset it.
- Card Not Activated: A new card might not be fully activated. Contact Fundi if your card has not been working.
- Daily Withdrawal Limits: Some Fundi Cards have a set withdrawal limit. Try a smaller amount if the ATM declines your transaction.
- Technical Errors at the ATM: Sometimes, the ATM might be down or having a service issue. Try a different ATM if needed.
Conclusion: Withdrawing Cash with Your Fundi Card in 2025
Being able to withdraw cash from your Fundi Card can be helpful, especially when you need money for everyday expenses that aren’t covered by specific wallets like meals or books. In 2025, this process is smoother than ever, as Fundi continues to partner with local banks and expand access to student-friendly financial services.
By following the right steps, checking your balance regularly, and understanding the rules around wallet types, you can confidently manage your Fundi Card just like a bank card. Whether you’re buying essentials, travelling home, or covering personal costs, a Fundi Card that supports ATM withdrawals gives you the freedom to handle your finances with ease.
Always remember to use your card responsibly, protect your information, and contact Fundi for any support or questions. With the right knowledge, you can get the most out of your student allowance and stay in control of your cash whenever you need it.