Tips for GoTyme Users Withdrawing Large Amounts
WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?
I never thought I’d be writing this. I’ve been using GoTyme Bank for years, always recommending it for its ease of use, low fees, and digital-first features. But a recent experience while abroad has changed how I look at this platform especially if you’re trying to withdraw ₱40,000 or more in a single ATM transaction overseas.
Here’s what happened.
My Story: ₱50K Withdrawn Abroad, No Cash Dispensed
While traveling, I attempted to withdraw just over ₱50,000+ (around 30k BAHT) from an international ATM in Thailand. The money was instantly debited from my GoTyme account, but the ATM never dispensed the cash. I waited. Tried again. Still nothing.
After reporting the issue, I was told the usual: wait 10 to 45 business days. But after nearly a week and several follow-ups (including to BSP, which GoTyme cc’d in email), I still have no real update, only templated replies and a vague assurance that the transaction is now being handled by Visa.
I was told that once Visa finishes processing, the money should be credited back. But with no clear timeline and zero accountability, I’m honestly scared that it may never return.
But Here’s What Surprised Me Most…
Just minutes later, on the same ATM and same day, I used my GCash card to withdraw ฿10,000 Thai Baht (about ₱17,500) and guess what? It worked instantly.
The cash came out. No issues. No stress.
That’s what made me realize the problem may not be with the ATM or the local bank, but with how GoTyme handles international withdrawals, especially large amounts.
Why I Think GoTyme’s ₱50K Withdrawal Limit is Misleading
One surprising thing I learned through this ordeal? GoTyme advertises that it supports international ATM withdrawals of the banks maximum cash withdrawal. What they don’t clarify is that many foreign banks and ATM networks (especially Visa) only allow ₱40,000 or less per withdrawal.
So even if GoTyme allows ₱50K per day, that doesn’t mean a foreign bank’s ATM can handle that amount in a single transaction. This mismatch causes failed withdrawals and locks up your money.
This lack of clarity is dangerous. Many overseas Filipinos and travelers trust these banks with their funds. A wrong assumption about limits can result in frozen funds for over a month, with no proper customer service escalation in place.
This Isn’t Just Me: Another User Reported ₱49,280 Missing
I later discovered on Reddit that another GoTyme user experienced the same issue just a few weeks earlier. They attempted to withdraw 1,350 AUD (about ₱49,280) from an ATM in Brisbane, Australia, and never received the money.
According to their post:
“It’s already been 21 days since I filed the complaint but I still get the same auto-response messages from customer service… One of their agents even said there’s a chance the money won’t be refunded. Nakakastress.”
This user had been using GoTyme for almost 2 years without issues until now.
Tips for GoTyme Users Withdrawing Abroad
Always ask the foreign bank or ATM’s per-transaction limit before withdrawing.
Avoid requesting more than ₱40,000 in one go, even if GoTyme allows ₱50K/day.
Use a backup card (like GCash or Maya) in case your main one fails.
Don’t assume GoTyme will quickly resolve failed transactions, expect 10 to 45 days for resolution.
If your money isn’t refunded after that window, file a complaint with BSP using their online chatbot BOB to get a reference number.
Final Thoughts
This experience shook my trust in using GoTyme abroad for high-value transactions. The technical limits are not the problem, it’s the lack of guidance and clarity before the transaction fails, and the lack of urgency after it does.
Until things improve, I’ll continue to use GoTyme for everyday local banking but I’ll be far more cautious using it internationally.
I’ve been a fan of GoTyme for its smooth app experience, easy setup, and the fact that it’s backed by a reputable banking group. But recently, I encountered a major issue that made me reconsider using it as my primary bank when overseas.
