How Long Does a Check Take to Deposit Through an ATM?

Depositing a check at an ATM offers a convenient way to manage your finances. While ATMs provide 24/7 access, the time it takes for funds to become accessible varies. This process involves banking practices and federal regulations, which determine standard availability.

Standard Funds Availability

When you deposit a check at an ATM, your bank follows guidelines regarding funds availability. These guidelines are influenced by federal regulations, particularly Regulation CC, which standardizes fund accessibility. A “business day” refers to any weekday, Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays. Deposits made on a weekend or holiday are processed on the next business day.

For most checks deposited at an ATM, the first $225 must be made available by the next business day. The remaining amount is available by the second business day after the deposit. If the ATM is not owned by your bank, the availability period for the entire deposit can be extended to the fifth business day. These are standard timeframes, though banks may make funds available sooner.

Factors Affecting Deposit Times

Several factors can influence or extend the standard availability times for ATM check deposits. Knowing these factors helps anticipate when funds will clear.

A key factor is the bank’s daily cut-off time for deposits. Deposits made after this specified time, which can be as early as noon for ATM deposits, are treated as made on the next business day. For example, a late Friday deposit may not process until Monday. Weekends and federal holidays also prolong the process, as banks are closed, delaying the availability clock until the next business day.

The type of check deposited also affects funds availability. Government, cashier’s, and certified checks often have faster availability, usually by the next business day. Personal or third-party checks adhere to the standard one-to-two business day timeframe. Large deposit amounts trigger extended holds; for example, amounts over $5,525 may be held for up to five additional business days.

Account history can lead to longer holds. New accounts, open less than 30 days, experience extended holds on deposited checks, up to nine business days. Accounts with frequent overdrafts or returned checks also face extended holds, as banks mitigate risk. Improper endorsements can also cause processing delays, requiring correction. Bank policies align with regulatory limits and can vary, so check your bank’s policy.

Monitoring Deposits and Addressing Delays

After depositing a check at an ATM, monitor your account to confirm and track availability. Check status via ATM receipt, online banking, mobile app, or customer service. Many banks provide real-time updates.

If your bank places an extended hold on your deposit, it must provide a notice. This notice explains the reason for the hold and specifies the date funds become available. Notifications may appear on your ATM receipt, or be sent via email or postal mail.

Should you encounter an unexpected delay in funds availability or if the funds are not accessible by the date indicated, contacting your bank’s customer service is the appropriate next step. When you call, be prepared to provide details such as the date and time of the deposit, the amount of the check, the ATM location, and any information from your deposit receipt. The bank can then investigate the specific circumstances of the hold and provide clarity on when you can expect access to your funds.