Can You Deposit Cash and Checks in an ATM?
Learn if, how, and what you can deposit at ATMs. Understand the process, accepted items, and fund availability for hassle-free banking.
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) have evolved beyond simple cash withdrawals to offer a range of banking services, including the convenient option to deposit funds. This expanded functionality allows users to conduct essential transactions outside of traditional bank hours. Understanding which ATMs accept deposits, the types of funds permissible, and the step-by-step process involved is important for leveraging these financial tools effectively.
Identifying Deposit-Capable ATMs
Not all ATMs are equipped to accept deposits; many are designed solely for withdrawals or balance inquiries. To identify a deposit-capable ATM, look for explicit signage like “Deposit Here” or “Accepts Cash/Check Deposits.” The ATM screen often provides prompts or menu options for deposits once a card is inserted. A reliable method for locating appropriate machines is using your bank’s mobile application or website, which typically features an ATM locator with filtering options for deposit functionality.
It is necessary to use an ATM belonging to your own bank or a partner bank within its network to make a deposit. Attempting to deposit funds at an out-of-network ATM may result in the transaction being rejected, incurring additional fees, or experiencing significant delays in fund availability. Some ATM networks, such as Allpoint+, indicate their deposit-enabled machines, but it is advisable to confirm with your financial institution.
What You Can Deposit
Modern ATMs primarily accept two types of deposits: cash and checks. For cash deposits, ATMs handle paper currency (bills) but do not accept coins. Cash should be smooth and unfolded for proper processing. Many ATMs have limits on the number of bills that can be inserted per transaction, often ranging from 40 to 50 bills.
For checks, ATMs accept personal checks, cashier’s checks, and business checks. Proper endorsement is required, which involves signing the back of the check within the designated area. Some institutions may also require an account number to be written alongside the signature. ATMs do not accept money orders, foreign currency, or bonds; these items require a visit to a bank branch with a teller for processing.
Step-by-Step Deposit Process
Initiating an ATM deposit begins with inserting your debit card and entering your Personal Identification Number (PIN) securely, shielding the keypad from view. Some newer ATMs offer cardless deposit options through mobile banking applications. After accessing your account, select the “Deposit” option from the on-screen menu, often followed by a choice between “Cash Deposit” or “Check Deposit,” or “Deposit Both.”
The ATM will prompt you to feed the cash or checks into a designated slot. Modern machines use scanning technology to count bills and read check information, displaying the recognized amount for verification. Review the displayed amount to ensure accuracy before confirming. Once confirmed, the machine finalizes the deposit. It is important to retrieve your debit card and the transaction receipt, which serves as proof of your deposit and contains important details for your records.
After Your Deposit
After completing an ATM deposit, retaining the transaction receipt is important. It provides documented proof of your transaction, including the date, time, and amount deposited. This receipt is useful for reconciling your account or resolving any discrepancies. While cash deposits show as immediately available or provisionally credited, the final availability of funds varies depending on the type of deposit and your bank’s policies.
For cash deposits, funds are available on the same business day if made before the bank’s cutoff time, or the next business day if made after. Check deposits involve a processing period, with funds becoming available within one to two business days for in-network ATMs. Federal regulations allow banks to place holds on deposited checks. Funds from checks deposited at out-of-network ATMs may take longer, up to five business days or more, before they are fully accessible. Many banks offer online banking or mobile app access to check the status of your deposits and monitor fund availability.