How to Deposit Money at an ATM Machine
Confidently manage your money by learning the complete process of depositing funds at an ATM, from readiness to verification.
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) offer a convenient way to manage personal finances, including depositing money. Using an ATM allows transactions outside of traditional banking hours, providing flexibility and efficiency. This self-service option streamlines adding funds to accounts without needing to visit a bank branch.
Getting Ready for Your Deposit
Before an ATM deposit, gather necessary items and understand key policies. You will need your debit or ATM card and your Personal Identification Number (PIN) to access your account. For cash deposits, ensure bills are neatly organized and unfolded to prevent machine jams. When depositing checks, endorse each check on the back by signing your name, and for added security, write “For Deposit Only” above your signature.
Understand your bank’s deposit limits and fund availability policies beforehand. ATMs may have per-transaction limits on the number of bills accepted, such as 40 bills at a time. Some financial institutions might set daily cash deposit limits at ATMs. Check limits for ATM deposits typically accommodate higher amounts than mobile options.
Depositing at an ATM owned by your bank generally provides quicker fund availability and avoids potential fees associated with using out-of-network machines. While some network ATMs might accept deposits, availability timelines can differ. Always verify which ATMs are part of your bank’s network to ensure a seamless experience.
Step-by-Step ATM Deposit
Begin by inserting your debit or ATM card into the designated slot and accurately entering your PIN. Navigate the on-screen menu to select the “Deposit” option, then choose the specific account where you wish to deposit the funds, such as checking or savings.
For cash deposits, the ATM will instruct you to insert your cash directly into a designated slot without an envelope. The machine will count the bills and display the total amount on the screen for your review. Verify that the amount displayed matches the cash you inserted before proceeding. Once confirmed, the ATM will process the transaction and credit your account.
When depositing checks, insert the endorsed check(s) into the specific slot. Many modern ATMs can scan multiple checks at once, eliminating the need for individual processing. The machine will read the check details and present the total amount for your confirmation. Confirm this amount matches the checks you deposited, as an incorrect entry could delay your funds.
After reviewing and confirming the deposit amount, the ATM will finalize the transaction. The machine will usually offer a printed receipt, which serves as a physical record of your deposit. Remember to retrieve your debit card before leaving the ATM, as forgetting it could compromise your account security.
After Your Deposit
Once your ATM deposit is complete, retain the printed receipt. This document serves as proof of your deposit, detailing the transaction time, date, amount, and sometimes even images of deposited checks. This receipt is an important tool for personal record-keeping and can be invaluable if any discrepancies arise.
After making a deposit, regularly check your account balance through online banking or your mobile app to verify that the funds have been credited correctly. While cash deposits are frequently available immediately, funds from check deposits are subject to availability schedules set by your financial institution. Typically, the first $225 of a check deposit is made available by the next business day, with the remaining balance becoming accessible within one to two business days for deposits made at your bank’s ATM. Funds from checks deposited at non-proprietary ATMs may take longer, potentially up to five business days, to become fully available.
If an issue occurs, such as the ATM malfunctioning or an incorrect amount being credited, contact your bank immediately using the number on your debit card or the ATM. Provide them with all details from your receipt, including the time and location of the incident. Banks are required to investigate such errors within a specific timeframe. Maintaining awareness of your surroundings and shielding your PIN while at the ATM are also important security practices to protect your account information.