How to Properly Deposit a Check in an ATM

Depositing a check at an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) provides a convenient way to manage finances outside of traditional banking hours. Many financial institutions offer deposit-accepting ATMs, making it a widely accessible option for individuals to add funds to their accounts. This method allows for flexibility, ensuring that check deposits can be made even when bank branches are closed.

Preparing Your Check for Deposit

Before heading to the ATM, prepare your check for a successful deposit. Proper endorsement requires your signature on the back of the check. For enhanced security, it is advisable to write “For Deposit Only” and your bank account number below your signature. This restrictive endorsement helps prevent unauthorized cashing or further negotiation of the check should it become lost or stolen. Endorse the check just before you deposit it.

In addition to the check itself, have your bank-issued ATM or debit card and your Personal Identification Number (PIN) readily available. These items are typically required to initiate the transaction and access your account at the ATM. Confirm the check is in good physical condition, free from excessive folds, tears, or damage, which could hinder the ATM’s ability to process it.

Depositing Your Check at the ATM

Begin by inserting your ATM or debit card into the designated slot on the machine. You will be prompted to enter your PIN discreetly. After successfully entering your PIN, navigate the on-screen menu to select the “Deposit” option.

The ATM will then ask you to specify which account you wish to deposit the funds into, typically offering options such as checking or savings. Once the account is selected, the machine will instruct you to insert the check into the designated deposit slot. Many modern ATMs are equipped with advanced scanning technology, allowing you to insert checks directly, sometimes even a stack of multiple checks at once. Older machines might still require checks to be placed inside a deposit envelope, which are usually available at the ATM.

After the check is inserted, the ATM will scan it and display the recognized amount on the screen. Review this amount to ensure it matches the check’s value. If there is a discrepancy, the ATM typically provides an option to correct the amount. Once you confirm the amount, finalize the transaction by following any remaining on-screen prompts. Retrieve your ATM card and the transaction receipt before leaving.

What Happens After Your Deposit

After completing your deposit, keep the transaction receipt. This receipt serves as immediate proof of your deposit, detailing important information such as the date, time, the amount deposited, and a transaction confirmation number. This documentation can be helpful in the rare event of a discrepancy or if you need to verify the transaction later. Some advanced ATMs may even print an image of the deposited check on your receipt.

Funds from a check deposit are not always immediately available. Financial institutions are subject to regulations, such as the Expedited Funds Availability Act, which govern how quickly deposited funds must be made accessible. While a portion, often the first $225 to $250, may be available the next business day, the remaining amount typically becomes available within one to two business days for local checks. Longer hold times can apply for large deposits exceeding $5,525, deposits made to new accounts (generally those open for less than 30 days), or checks deposited at an ATM not owned by your bank.

The specific cut-off time for deposits at an ATM can also influence when your funds become available, as deposits made after this time are usually processed on the next business day. You can monitor the status of your deposit through your bank’s online banking portal or mobile application. Retain the physical check in a secure location until the funds have fully cleared and are reflected as available in your account.