What Bills Can You Deposit in an ATM?

Depositing cash at an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) provides a convenient way to manage funds outside of traditional bank operating hours. This self-service option allows individuals to add money to their accounts efficiently. Understanding the specific requirements for cash deposits at an ATM can help ensure a smooth transaction. ATMs are designed to process physical currency, making them a widely accessible tool for banking needs.

Accepted Bill Types and Condition

ATMs are equipped to accept all denominations of U.S. dollar bills, including $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. These machines utilize advanced optical scanners to identify and count the inserted currency. For successful processing, bills should be flat, unfolded, and free from excessive wear or tear. It is important to ensure there are no foreign objects, such as paper clips or rubber bands, attached to the bills. Organizing the bills so they all face the same direction can also contribute to a smoother deposit process.

Items Not Accepted for ATM Deposit

Certain items cannot be deposited through an ATM due to mechanical limitations and verification protocols. Coins, for example, are generally not accepted by ATMs, and customers typically need to visit a bank branch or use a dedicated coin-counting machine for such deposits. Foreign currency is also usually not accepted by domestic ATMs, as they are configured to process only one type of currency, requiring exchange at a branch first. Severely damaged or mutilated bills may also be rejected because the ATM’s scanners cannot properly authenticate them. Non-cash items, such as checks or money orders, are typically processed through separate functions or slots, if accepted at all, and should not be mixed with cash in a bill-only deposit slot.

Making an ATM Cash Deposit

The process for depositing cash at an ATM generally involves several steps to ensure accuracy. Begin by inserting your debit card into the machine and entering your Personal Identification Number (PIN) when prompted. Next, select the “Deposit” option from the on-screen menu, choosing whether to deposit cash, checks, or both, and then selecting the specific account. The ATM will then instruct you to insert your stack of bills into the designated cash slot, counting them immediately and displaying the total for your verification. After confirming the amount, finalize the transaction and remember to retrieve your debit card and a receipt; cash deposits are often available immediately, though some banks may process them by the next business day.

Understanding Deposit Limits

ATMs frequently have daily deposit limits, which can vary significantly depending on the bank, the type of account, and the customer’s banking history. These limits are often in place as part of security measures and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance efforts. While there may not be a strict dollar amount limit, ATMs often impose a limit on the number of bills that can be inserted per transaction, such as 40 to 200 bills. For instance, a limit of 40 bills could translate to a $4,000 maximum if depositing $100 bills. Banks are legally required to report cash deposits exceeding $10,000 to federal authorities; for larger deposits that exceed ATM limits or reporting thresholds, it is generally advisable to complete the transaction inside a bank branch with a teller.