Can You Put Cash in an ATM? How the Deposit Works

Depositing cash into an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is a convenient way to add funds to your account outside of traditional banking hours. While generally possible, the ability to deposit cash can depend on your specific bank and the type of ATM you are using.

Identifying Deposit-Accepting ATMs

Not all ATMs are equipped to accept cash deposits; many machines primarily offer cash withdrawals or balance inquiries. To locate an ATM that accepts cash, look for specific signage indicating “Deposit” or “Cash Deposit” capabilities. These machines are typically found at bank branches or are part of large, bank-affiliated networks. You can often use your bank’s official website or mobile application to find nearby ATMs that accept deposits, as these tools often include filters for deposit-enabled locations. Some shared ATM networks, such as Allpoint+, also offer cash deposit services at select retail locations for participating financial institutions.

The Cash Deposit Process

Once you locate a deposit-accepting ATM, the process begins by inserting your debit card into the designated slot and entering your Personal Identification Number (PIN). The ATM screen will then present a menu of options where you should select “Deposit” and then specify “Cash Deposit” or the relevant account, such as checking or savings. Prepare your cash by ensuring bills are unfolded, free of paper clips or bands, and generally face the same direction, which helps the machine process them accurately. The ATM will prompt you to insert the cash into a specific slot.

Modern ATMs typically scan and count the bills directly, eliminating the need for deposit envelopes. After inserting your cash, the machine will display the counted amount on the screen for your review. It is important to confirm that this amount matches your intended deposit. If there is a discrepancy, some ATMs allow for corrections or transaction cancellation. Once you verify the amount, confirm the deposit to finalize the transaction.

Verifying Your Deposit

After completing your cash deposit at an ATM, always retrieve the printed receipt. This receipt serves as immediate proof of your transaction, detailing the date, time, and amount deposited. You can typically verify your deposit by checking your bank’s online banking portal or mobile application for an updated balance. For cash deposits, funds are often available immediately or within the same business day, especially when using an ATM owned by your bank.

Deposits made after a bank’s daily cut-off time, which can be as early as noon for ATMs, may be processed on the next business day. For example, a deposit made on a Friday evening might not reflect in your available balance until Monday. While cash deposits generally clear quickly, checking your account activity ensures that the funds have been successfully credited and are accessible.

Important Considerations for Deposits

When making an ATM cash deposit, be aware of daily deposit limits, which vary by financial institution and account type. Some ATMs may also have a limit on the number of bills accepted per transaction, often ranging from 40 to 200 bills. This could necessitate multiple transactions for larger cash amounts. It is advisable to prepare your cash by ensuring bills are in good condition, as damaged or excessively wrinkled notes may be rejected by the machine.

For security, always be observant of your surroundings when using an ATM. Shield the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN to prevent unauthorized viewing. If an ATM malfunctions during your deposit, such as by not returning your card or failing to credit the full amount, document the incident immediately. This includes noting the time, location, and any error messages displayed. Contact your bank promptly to report the issue, as they will typically initiate an investigation, which may involve auditing the ATM.