ATMs in Turkey keep asking Accept or Decline Conversion - what does that mean? Shows high charges for this
Real-life example at a DenizBank ATM:
- With DCC: 1,000 TL = $52 (terrible rate + fee)
- Without DCC: 1,000 TL = $47 (your bank’s fair rate)
Always say NO to conversion! Even Ziraat bank forced this fee on me. If the ATM forces it, cancel and find another one like Isbank, HSBC, PTT one close by instead.
I got burned by DCC at a Yapı Kredi ATM - it added 7% extra fees without asking me! Here’s how to avoid it:
Select "Continue in TRY" (Turkish Lira).
Check screens carefully - some ATMs (like QNB Finansbank) hide the "Decline" option in small text.
Use Wise/Revolut—they show the real exchange rate, making DCC scams obvious.
Avoid airport ATMs (like those at IST) - they have the worst rates.
Why ATMs push DCC: They make money by offering bad rates. At a Garanti BBVA ATM, you might see:ATMs in Turkey keep asking Accept or Decline Conversion - what does that mean? Shows high charges for this
"Charge in USD?" - DECLINE
"Convert to your home currency?" - DECLINE
"Continue in TRY (Turkish Lira)?" - ACCEPT
Avoid standalone ATMs like Euronet - they’re the worst for hidden fees. Halkbank and Akbank ATMs usually give fairer options.
This is Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), a common ATM trick in Turkey. If you "Accept", the ATM (not your bank) sets a terrible exchange rate. For example, at a Euronet ATM in Istanbul, a 1,000 TL withdrawal might cost $50 with DCC vs. $45 if you decline and let your bank convert it. Always "Decline" and let your own bank handle the conversion. Stick to ATMs from Is Bank or ING Bank or HSBC - they’re more transparent.
Ziraat Bank ATM in Goreme, Turkey prompts an 8% markup if you accept conversion.
Ziraat Bank didnt charge any fee but it forcibly asks you to Accept Conversion. Ridiculour 8% fee
ING Bank in Antalya had 0 fees. Just decline conversion and youre set. Withdrew 9000 TRY!
Definitely decline conversion at ING Turkey or youll pay 12%! No fee otherwise.