KINGSTON, Jamaica — With much of Jamaica’s Automated Banking Machine (ABM) network disabled by Hurricane Melissa, banks are urging customers to use the cash-back feature at retail checkouts while they work to restore services amid widespread damage and outages.

The cash-back option allows debit cardholders to receive cash from participating merchants when making purchases. According to the Jamaica Bankers Association (JBA), this service is being promoted as a temporary alternative as banks confront major disruptions to branches, ABMs, and point-of-sale systems.

In a public advisory issued on Sunday, the JBA said financial institutions are dealing with extensive challenges, including power and telecommunications failures, blocked roads, staff dislocation, and heightened security threats such as vandalism and attempted robberies.

The association said its member banks are coordinating with the government and the Bank of Jamaica to safely restore services, prioritising the hardest-hit parishes. Some branches have reopened in phases, though several continue to operate on reduced hours due to limited access to electricity, water, and internet.

With many ABMs still offline, the JBA advised customers to check their bank’s social media pages for updated lists of full-service branches offering cash. It also noted that some gas stations, supermarkets, pharmacies, and other retailers may provide cash-back services at their point-of-sale terminals.

Online and mobile banking remain the fastest options for checking balances, transferring funds, and paying bills, the JBA said, while warning that contact centre wait times may be longer than usual.

To support customers affected financially by the hurricane, banks are offering temporary relief measures such as payment deferrals, interest-only periods, and fee waivers. The JBA encouraged customers to contact their bank directly to discuss available assistance.

The association also warned the public about an increase in fraud and “relief” scams, stressing that banks will never request PINs, passwords, or one-time codes. Customers were urged to verify donation appeals and use official contact numbers if they suspect fraudulent activity.

Individuals who have lost or damaged identification or bank documents are encouraged to contact their bank as soon as possible.

The JBA appealed for patience and cooperation from the public as banks work to bring more locations and ABMs back online. Updates will continue to be shared through bank websites, social media platforms, and local media outlets.