As Chinese New Year 2026 draws closer, households across Singapore are already getting into festive mode. From planning reunion meals to tidying homes and shopping for gifts, there is one tradition that never gets overlooked: preparing red packets filled with crisp, fit and new notes. While digital payments continue to grow in popularity, the practice of gifting physical cash during Lunar New Year remains deeply meaningful, symbolising blessings, prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead.
Understanding how important this annual ritual is, DBS Bank and POSB have once again stepped in early with a well-planned Chinese New Year notes withdrawal programme for 2026. This year’s arrangement places a strong emphasis on convenience, accessibility and crowd management, making it easier for customers to prepare for the festive season without unnecessary stress or long queues.
Rather than limiting customers to a single method, DBS and POSB are offering multiple channels for accessing fit and new notes. These include online reservations for branch collection, a wide network of pop-up ATMs across Singapore, and dedicated walk-in services for selected customer groups. The approach reflects how modern banking can support traditional practices while adapting to the fast-paced lifestyles of Singaporeans.
One of the key reasons this initiative is worth paying attention to is its scale. For Chinese New Year 2026, DBS and POSB will be rolling out 71 pop-up ATMs across 47 locations islandwide. These machines are specially stocked with fit and new notes and allow customers to withdraw them just like a normal ATM transaction. There is no need to pre-book a slot, which makes this option especially attractive for those with busy schedules or last-minute preparations.
For customers who prefer the reassurance of in-branch collection, the online reservation system remains available. This service helps manage foot traffic at branches and reduces waiting time, which is particularly important during the peak festive period. Reservations are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and once all slots are taken, the system will close automatically. Planning ahead is therefore crucial, especially for families who prefer collecting notes on specific dates.
The reservation system is split into two windows. The first window opens on 27 January 2026 at 12am, with collection scheduled from 3 to 6 February 2026. The second window opens on 2 February 2026 at 12am, covering collection dates from 9 to 13 February 2026. This staggered arrangement helps spread demand across different days and ensures smoother operations at branches.
Beyond convenience, inclusivity remains a key consideration. DBS and POSB will continue to offer walk-in notes exchange services at branches for customers aged 60 and above, as well as customers with disabilities. This ensures that those who may not be comfortable with online systems or self-service machines are not excluded from the festive preparations. Walk-in services will be available from 3 to 14 February 2026 during normal branch opening hours, with branches operating until 1pm on 16 February 2026.
The introduction of pop-up ATMs has proven to be a game changer in recent years, and the expanded network for 2026 further strengthens this option. With locations spread across residential areas, business districts and shopping hubs, customers can easily plan their withdrawals around daily routines. Many of the pop-up ATMs will operate from 10am to 10pm between 3 and 15 February 2026, making it possible to drop by after work, during lunch breaks or while running errands. On 16 February 2026, these ATMs will operate from 10am to 1pm.
This level of flexibility is particularly valuable during the Chinese New Year period, when schedules tend to be packed. Instead of taking time off to visit a bank branch, customers can simply choose a nearby pop-up ATM and complete their withdrawal within minutes. For families preparing multiple red packets, this efficiency makes a noticeable difference.
From a broader perspective, this programme highlights how banks can support cultural traditions while encouraging self-service and digital planning. The online reservation system helps regulate branch traffic, pop-up ATMs cater to customers who value speed, and walk-in services ensure accessibility. Together, these options create a balanced ecosystem that serves a wide range of needs.
There are also practical steps customers can take to make the experience even smoother. Deciding early which option suits them best is a good starting point. Those who prefer branch collection should mark reservation opening dates in their calendar, as slots tend to fill quickly. Customers using pop-up ATMs are encouraged to check operating hours in advance, especially closer to Chinese New Year. Visiting during off-peak hours can help avoid crowds, even at self-service locations.
Preparing a clear idea of the required denominations in advance also helps streamline the process. Whether it is smaller notes for children or larger amounts for elders, knowing what is needed reduces time spent at the ATM or counter. With fit and new notes available over an extended period, there is no need to rush everything into a single day.
Ultimately, this DBS and POSB Chinese New Year 2026 programme is not just about cash withdrawals. It is about enabling families to uphold meaningful traditions with ease and confidence. By offering multiple channels and extending availability across more than two weeks, the banks are giving customers the freedom to plan in a way that fits their lifestyle.
As the festive season approaches, having one less thing to worry about makes a real difference. With clear timelines, islandwide access and thoughtful arrangements for different customer groups, this initiative allows households to focus on what truly matters: spending time with loved ones and welcoming the Lunar New Year with positivity and joy.
Promotional / Event Details
Date:
27 January–16 February 2026
Time:
Pop-Up ATMs:
3–15 February 2026: 10am–10pm
16 February 2026: 10am–1pm
Branch services:
3–14 February 2026: Subject to branch opening hours
16 February 2026: Until 1pm
Venue:
DBS and POSB branches and 71 pop-up ATMs across 47 locations islandwide in Singapore
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