Can You Cash Checks at an ATM? What You Need to Know

Many people wonder if checks can be cashed directly at an ATM. Understanding how ATMs handle check transactions is helpful for managing your finances.

Distinguishing Cashing from Depositing at an ATM

ATMs primarily facilitate the deposit of checks into an account rather than providing immediate cash for the check’s value. This process adds the check’s amount to your account balance, subject to your bank’s fund availability policies.

The ATM does not dispense cash directly from the check itself. Once a check deposit is processed and funds become available, you can withdraw cash from your account’s cleared balance. This means there is typically a waiting period before the deposited funds can be accessed.

Steps for Depositing a Check at an ATM

Properly endorse the back of the check by signing your name. Many banks also require you to write “For Deposit Only” and your account number beneath your signature.

Insert your debit card into the ATM and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Select “Deposit” from the main menu, then choose your checking or savings account. Insert the prepared check into the designated slot.

The ATM will display the detected amount for your confirmation. Verify that the amount shown matches the check’s value before confirming. After confirming, the ATM will issue a receipt detailing the deposit, including the amount and often an image of the check.

Understanding Fund Availability

After depositing a check at an ATM, funds are not always immediately available. Financial institutions place a hold on deposited checks to ensure funds clear from the issuing bank. The length of this hold varies depending on the check amount, type, and your account history.

For most personal checks, a portion of the deposit, such as the first $275, may be available on the next business day, effective July 1, 2025. The remaining balance might become available within two business days. Larger checks, generally those over $6,725, or checks deposited into newer accounts, may experience longer holds, potentially up to nine business days.

Banks must disclose their specific fund availability policies, often found in your account agreement or on their website. These policies are governed by regulations like the Expedited Funds Availability Act (Regulation CC), which sets general guidelines for how quickly banks must make funds available. Understanding these timelines helps you plan when you can access your deposited money.

Alternative Methods for Cashing Checks

For individuals needing immediate cash from a check, several alternatives exist beyond ATM deposits. Visiting your own bank branch is often the most direct method; with proper identification, such as a driver’s license, tellers can typically cash a check, immediately providing funds. You might also be able to cash a check at the bank it was drawn on, though they may charge a non-customer fee, which can be a flat amount or a percentage of the check.

Check-cashing services offer another option for immediate cash, often for a fee. These services are independent businesses that cash checks for a percentage of the check’s value, generally ranging from 1% to 12%. For example, some large retailers like Walmart charge around $4 for checks up to $1,000 and $8 for larger amounts. These services are often used by those who do not have traditional bank accounts.

While not providing immediate cash, mobile check deposit is a convenient alternative to ATM deposits. This feature, available through many bank apps, allows you to endorse and photograph a check with your smartphone for deposit. Similar to ATM deposits, funds deposited via mobile capture are subject to the same availability holds and do not provide instant cash.