If You Deposit a Check Into an ATM, How Long Does It Take?
Understand how long ATM check deposits take to clear. Learn about typical availability, factors that can cause delays, and how to track your funds.
Depositing a check at an ATM offers convenience, allowing transactions outside of traditional banking hours. However, a common question arises regarding when these deposited funds become accessible for use. Understanding the process behind ATM check deposits and the factors that influence fund availability can help manage expectations and financial planning.
Standard Fund Availability
Federal regulations, specifically Regulation CC (Reg CC), govern the availability of funds for deposited checks. This regulation aims to provide consumers with timely access to their money. For most checks deposited at an ATM, a portion of the funds typically becomes available on the next business day.
As of July 1, 2025, the first $275 of a check deposit must generally be made available by the next business day. The remaining balance of most checks is usually made available within two business days after the day of deposit. A “business day” includes weekdays, Monday through Friday, but excludes weekends and federal holidays. These guidelines apply broadly across the United States, though individual bank policies may offer slightly faster availability.
Factors Influencing Availability
Several factors can influence how quickly funds from an ATM check deposit become available. One significant factor is the deposit amount; larger checks, specifically those exceeding a certain threshold like $6,725, may trigger longer holds. This allows banks to assess the risk associated with substantial sums.
New accounts, typically those open for less than 30 days, often face extended hold periods. Banks implement this to mitigate risk and establish banking history. A history of frequent overdrafts or insufficient funds in an account can also lead to longer holds on deposits.
The time of day a deposit is made also plays a role due to bank “cut-off times.” Deposits made after a bank’s stated cut-off time for ATM transactions are processed on the next business day. This effectively adds an extra day to the availability timeline. Deposits made on weekends or bank holidays will not begin processing until the next business day, leading to additional delays.
The type of check deposited also impacts availability. Government checks, cashier’s checks, and certified checks often clear faster because the funds are typically guaranteed. Conversely, personal checks, especially those from unfamiliar banks or foreign checks, may experience longer holds due to verification and collection. A check deposited at an ATM not owned by your bank might also take slightly longer for full availability.
Checking Fund Status
After depositing a check at an ATM, there are several ways to determine the status of your funds. The ATM receipt often provides an estimated availability date. This printed receipt serves as a record of your transaction.
Online banking platforms and mobile applications are valuable tools for current information. Logging into your bank’s website or mobile app allows you to view your account balance, transaction history, and pending deposits or available balances. Digital access usually provides real-time updates. If precise details are needed or a hold is unexpectedly placed, contacting customer service can provide specific information about a deposit’s status and release date. Many banks also offer text or email alerts that notify customers when deposited funds become available.