State Bank of India (SBI) has announced a temporary waiver of ATM transaction charges for customers during the proposed three-day nationwide bank strike from September 28 to September 30, 2026.
Under the arrangement, SBI customers will be able to use ATMs operated by any bank during the three-day period without applicable ATM transaction charges covered by the waiver. SBI said the measure is intended to help customers continue accessing essential banking services during the proposed strike period.
The bank has also said that customers can continue using its digital banking channels, including YONO, internet banking, mobile banking and WhatsApp banking, along with its 24×7 contact centre services.
Digital Banking Services to Remain Available
Customers will be able to use several digital payment and banking facilities during the strike period. These include UPI, IMPS, NEFT and RTGS for eligible transactions.
This means many routine payments and fund transfers can be completed without visiting a bank branch. However, the availability of individual services may depend on the operational arrangements of the respective bank.
The proposed strike has been called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU). According to the Ministry of Finance, the unions are seeking implementation of a five-day banking week. The government has said that the three-day strike from September 28 to September 30 would also coincide with the half-yearly closing of banks on September 30.
Public Sector Banks to Open on September 27
Ahead of the proposed strike, the government has announced that all public sector banks (PSBs) and regional rural banks (RRBs) will operate normally on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
The Reserve Bank of India has approved the functioning of bank branches, offices, ATM-linked branches and currency chests on that day. The move is intended to ensure that customers can complete essential banking work before the proposed three-day strike.
The government and bank managements have also appealed to the unions to defer the proposed strike while steps have been taken to maintain essential banking services.
What SBI Customers Should Know
SBI customers who require branch-based services may consider completing those tasks before September 28. For cash withdrawals during the strike period, the temporary ATM charge waiver will allow SBI customers to use ATMs of other banks as well.
For routine banking requirements, SBI’s digital channels and electronic payment systems will remain available, subject to the applicable service arrangements.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes and is based on information available regarding the proposed September 28–30, 2026 bank strike and SBI’s temporary ATM charge waiver. Banking services, charges and operational arrangements may change. Customers should check the latest communication from SBI, their respective bank and relevant authorities before carrying out important transactions.