Why it is better to withdraw money from all bank cards before the New Year
The Bank of Russia did not impose bans, but it is still possible to remain without access to funds during the holidays. We tell you how much cash to prepare and how not to fall under the suspicion of banks.
Before the New Year holidays in the network again pop up frightening advice: “Urgently withdraw all the money, the banks will disconnect!”. The Bank of Russia has not imposed any restrictions on transactions on ruble cards. Keeping large amounts at home is still unsafe, and interest on deposits will continue to accrue normally.
However, a small supply of cash is really worth it. The holidays will last from December 31, 2026 to January 10, 2027. At this time, bank branches work on a reduced schedule, and technical failures in terminals or problems with mobile Internet can temporarily block contactless payment. The optimal financial reserve for a “rainy day” is 5-15 thousand rubles, which will be enough for basic family expenses.
From September 2025, credit institutions strictly monitor suspicious transactions in ATMs. If the system notices an atypical withdrawal time, unusual geolocation, recent loan processing or a change in the phone number in the application, the cash issuance limit can be temporarily reduced to 50 thousand rubles per day for 48 hours. To remove more in this situation will only be through the cash register in the office with a passport.
Ruble accounts are operating unchanged. Restrictions on the issuance of cash foreign currency were extended until March 9, 2027. If the account was opened before March 9, 2022, you can withdraw no more than $10,000 (or the equivalent in euros), if such a limit has not already been used. The remaining funds are issued only in rubles.
Checklist before the holidays:
1. Check the validity of the card and daily limits in the mobile application.
2. Make sure the online bank is up and the support number is saved in the phone contacts.
3. Have a spare card of another bank in case of a technical failure at the main issuer.
4. Keep an emergency cash supply separate from the main wallet.
Do not give in to panic: empty accounts due to rumors is not worth it. A reasonable reserve will provide peace of mind, but will not deprive you of bank interest and protection from theft.
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