Taxation and Regulatory Compliance

Can You Deposit a Large Check at an ATM?

Understand the practicalities of depositing substantial checks via ATM, covering limits, fund access, and smarter banking alternatives.

Many individuals commonly use Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) for check deposits due to their convenience. However, depositing a substantial check at an ATM involves specific considerations regarding deposit limits and the subsequent availability of funds.

ATM Deposit Limits

Financial institutions implement limits on the amount that can be deposited via an ATM. These limits can vary significantly from one bank to another, and they may also depend on the type of account held and the customer’s banking history. Banks establish these limits to mitigate risks like fraud and ensure operational security.

These restrictions often include both a daily deposit limit and a per-check limit. The actual amount accessible daily or per transaction could be much lower. It is advisable to check your bank’s official website, review your account agreement, or contact customer service to ascertain your specific ATM deposit limits. Some ATMs may even display these limits on-screen during the deposit process.

Funds Availability for Large Checks

Even if an ATM accepts a large check, the full amount may not be immediately available for withdrawal. Banks often place holds on large deposited checks to ensure the funds clear from the issuing bank. Federal regulations, specifically Regulation CC, govern how quickly banks must make deposited funds available to customers.

Effective July 1, 2025, the threshold for large check deposits subject to extended holds will increase to $6,725. If you deposit checks totaling more than this amount in a single day, the bank may extend the hold period for the excess.

Common reasons for extended holds include checks deposited into newly opened accounts (generally those less than 30 days old), accounts with a history of repeated overdrafts, or if the bank reasonably doubts the collectability of the check. While some funds, such as the first $275, may be available the next business day, the remaining portion of a large check could be held for up to five to seven business days. You can inquire about the availability of funds for a specific deposit by contacting your bank.

Alternative Deposit Methods

For large checks, alternative deposit methods offer advantages over ATM deposits. Depositing a check with a teller allows for immediate verification of the check and direct discussion of funds availability. Tellers can often confirm when the funds will be accessible, potentially leading to faster access for large amounts compared to ATM deposits, as the bank can assess the check’s legitimacy in real-time.

Mobile check deposit, via a bank’s smartphone application, is another convenient option. Mobile deposit limits are often lower than ATM limits, typically ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per day or month, depending on the bank and account. If a check exceeds these mobile limits, it will be declined. For very large sums, direct deposit or wire transfers are preferred for receiving funds, though they aren’t for depositing physical checks.

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