Can I Add Money to My Card at an ATM?

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) offer a convenient method for various banking tasks, including depositing funds. A frequent question is whether ATMs accept deposits onto a card. Understanding their capabilities can help you efficiently add money to your financial accounts.

Understanding ATM Deposit Eligibility

The ability to deposit money at an ATM largely depends on your card type and banking relationship. Most ATMs primarily facilitate deposits for debit cards linked to checking or savings accounts, as these cards directly connect to your bank account.

For traditional bank accounts, deposits are almost exclusively accepted at your bank’s ATMs or within its designated network (in-network ATMs). Using an out-of-network ATM for a deposit might not be possible, or it could incur additional fees and longer processing times. Certain prepaid cards may allow cash loads at specific ATMs, but this differs from a traditional bank deposit. Credit cards generally do not allow cash deposits to reduce their balance; using them at an ATM typically results in a cash advance, which accrues interest and fees immediately.

Preparing for an ATM Deposit

Before making an ATM deposit, gather your debit card linked to the account and your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Your PIN is required to access your account at the ATM.

For cash deposits, count your bills beforehand and ensure they are unfolded and organized, facing the same direction. For check deposits, endorse each check with your signature on the back; some banks may also require “For Deposit Only” below your signature. Verify that the ATM accepts deposits, as many are designed only for cash withdrawals.

Making Your ATM Deposit

At a compatible ATM, insert your debit card and enter your PIN when prompted. The ATM screen will display a menu of options; select “Deposit.”

You will then choose whether you are depositing “Cash,” “Checks,” or “Both” and specify the account (checking or savings) into which the funds should be placed. For cash deposits, modern ATMs usually allow you to insert a stack of bills directly into a slot without an envelope, and the machine will count them automatically. For checks, you will insert the endorsed check(s) into a separate or combined deposit slot. The ATM will then display the amount it has counted for verification. Carefully review this amount to ensure accuracy before confirming the transaction.

Deposit Confirmation and Fund Availability

Upon successful completion of your ATM deposit, the machine will typically issue a receipt. Always take this receipt, as it serves as immediate proof of your transaction, detailing the date, time, and amount deposited. This record can be invaluable for financial tracking and resolving discrepancies.

The availability of your deposited funds varies based on your bank’s policies and deposit type. Cash deposits made at an in-network ATM are often available immediately or by the next business day. For check deposits, however, funds may not be available right away.

Federal regulations, such as Regulation CC, generally require banks to make funds from checks deposited at your own bank’s ATM available by the second business day. If depositing at an ATM not owned by your bank, funds may be available by the fifth business day. Banks may place longer holds on larger deposits, typically exceeding $5,525, or if there is reason to believe a check may not clear. You can monitor the status of your deposit through online banking or your bank’s mobile application.