Card Destroyed

• Cards left in the ATM may be destroyed by the machine or by bank personnel.George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images
  
  Many banks will simply have the ATM destroy the forgotten card, or the card will be destroyed when it is retrieved. As an added protection, however, you should contact that ATM's bank and let them know what happened. Ask for contact information where you can follow up in writing, detailing when and where you left your card, and ask for verification that the card has been destroyed or, if possible, have the destroyed card returned to you.
  
  

Card Returned

• Contact your bank as soon as you realize you left your card in the ATM.Polka Dot RF/Polka Dot/Getty Images
  
  Whether a card can be returned to you depends on each bank's individual policies. If it is an ATM where you bank, with your bank's ATM card, you may be able to get it back. If it was at another bank's ATM, call your bank and see if they have a release form they can send to the other bank that authorizes them to return the card to your bank. They may not; the other bank may immediately destroy the card, but at least you will still have verification that it was lost and you reported the loss. In either scenario, it is imperative you call your issuing bank immediately.
  
  

Getting a Replacement

• You may be able to get a new ATM card directly from your bank branch.Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  Once you contact your financial institution to report the lost card, order a replacement. This can be done over the telephone, by visiting a bank branch, or with some banks, you can order it through their website. In some cases, your replacement card will be mailed to you, but some branches can program a card with your personal identification number in a branch.
  
  

Helpful Tips

• Store the telephone number that is on the back of your ATM card somewhere safe.Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  Always store the telephone number for your bank somewhere so you will have access to it. If the number for the ATM card -- usually found on the back of your card -- is different from your bank's, then store that. Putting it in your cell phone or other personal electronic device is one handy option. Have a back-up card so you have access to credit or cash. This is particularly helpful if you are traveling. If possible, use your issuing bank's ATM machine. If you notice fairly quickly after leaving that you left your card there, you have a better chance of having it returned if your bank's policy allows it.