New law from June: Barrier-free withdrawals for everyone!

New law from June: Barrier-free withdrawals for everyone!

An important step towards accessibility will soon be taken in Germany: From June 28, 2025, the European Union's Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) will come into force, which is intended to enable all people, especially those with disabilities, equal access to banking services. This change in the law will have a significant impact on all ATM technology.

The BFSG stipulates that from the deadline all ATMs in Germany must have larger and higher-contrast displays. The user interface has also been improved, making it easier to operate. Wheelchair-accessible controls positioned at a suitable height, as well as voice and audio outputs, make use easier for people with visual impairments. Tactile markings are also provided on the keyboards. With easy-to-understand texts, simplified menus and the ability to enlarge text, withdrawing money is made more accessible for many people. These measures comply with the requirements of the EU Directive 2019/882, which was passed in 2019.

What does this mean for existing ATMs?

Existing ATMs must be converted by 2040 at the latest. A transitional regulation allows up to 15 years to adapt the existing devices. This means that operators and service providers must plan well in advance in order to meet the new requirements on time. Once the BFSG comes into force, a market surveillance authority will be added in Magdeburg, which will monitor compliance with the new legal regulations. If violations occur, appropriate action may be taken, including restriction or withdrawal of products.

Interestingly, the BFSG does not only regulate ATMs. Requirements also apply to many other products and services, such as smartphones, smart TVs or e-book readers. Starting June 28, these products must also comply with accessibility requirements. Manufacturers, retailers and service providers are obliged to meet these new standards and to subject their products to a conformity assessment procedure to ensure accessibility, as the Federal Agency for Accessibility explains.

A step towards inclusion

The BFSG represents a milestone when it comes to inclusion in banking and beyond. It is not only a legal framework, but also a social commitment to greater accessibility. It is new, especially for private companies, that they are obliged to ensure accessibility. Until now, such obligations have particularly applied to the public sector. Now the economy also recognizes the importance of providing access to all people, regardless of their abilities.

There is relief for small businesses – which often make up the largest part of the economy; Micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees or a turnover of less than 2 million euros have exceptions with regard to services. Nevertheless, these companies should also find out about the new requirements in good time in order to benefit from the free advice from the Federal Office for Accessibility.