Not all ATMs accept cash deposits, and the ones that do depend on which bank owns them

Most ATMs are withdrawal-only machines — they dispense cash but do not take it. The ones that accept deposits are usually owned by your own bank and located at their branches, in their lobbies, or at partner locations. If you try to deposit cash at an ATM that does not support deposits, the machine will simply reject the transaction.

Whether you can deposit cash at a specific ATM depends on three things: which bank owns it, whether that bank's machines are equipped for deposits, and whether you hold an account there. A Chase ATM at a Chase branch will accept deposits from Chase customers. A standalone ATM in a convenience store almost never will.

Key Takeaways

  • Your own bank's ATMs at branches and some partner locations accept cash deposits, but most standalone ATMs do not.
  • Depositing at an ATM outside your bank's network usually costs a fee and may not credit your account until the next business day.
  • If your bank does not have a nearby ATM with deposit capability, you can deposit cash at a teller window during business hours or use a mobile check deposit app instead.
  • Some banks charge a fee if you use a non-network ATM to deposit, even if the ATM itself accepts the deposit.

ATMs owned by your bank versus ATMs owned by other banks

Your bank's own ATMs — the ones in their branches and at their branded locations — almost always accept cash deposits if they are equipped with a deposit slot. These machines read your card, verify your account, and process the deposit immediately or hold it for verification depending on the amount and your account history.

ATMs owned by other banks or independent operators rarely accept cash deposits at all. Even if they do, you will usually pay a fee ($1 to $3 is common), and the deposit may not post to your account until the next business day. Some banks also charge their own customers a fee for using an out-of-network ATM to deposit, on top of any fee the ATM operator charges.

ATM networks and shared deposit access

Many banks belong to ATM networks — groups of banks that let each other's customers use their machines without a fee. The largest networks in the United States are Allpoint, MoneyPass, and Surcharge-Free Network. If your bank is part of one of these networks, you may be able to deposit cash at network ATMs even if they are not branded with your bank's name.

Before you count on this, check your bank's website or call their customer service line to confirm which networks they participate in and whether network ATMs in your area accept deposits. Network participation varies by bank and changes over time. Some banks limit deposits to their own machines only, even if they are part of a larger network.

What happens when you deposit cash at an ATM

When you insert cash into a deposit-enabled ATM, the machine counts the bills, displays the amount on screen, and asks you to confirm. You then insert your debit card or enter your account number, and the machine processes the deposit. Most ATMs print a receipt showing the amount and the date.

The cash itself goes into a secure compartment inside the machine. Your bank's staff retrieves it later and verifies the count. If the machine's count matches what you deposited, the money posts to your account — usually the same day for deposits made before a certain cutoff time (often 2 or 3 p.m.), or the next business day for later deposits. If there is a discrepancy, your bank will contact you.

Alternatives if your bank's ATMs do not have deposit capability

If you cannot find a deposit-enabled ATM near you, deposit cash at a teller window during your bank's business hours. This is the most straightforward option and avoids any fees or delays. Most branches accept cash deposits at the counter without an appointment.

If you need to deposit outside business hours, check whether your bank offers mobile check deposit — an app feature that lets you photograph checks and submit them electronically. This does not work for cash, but it can reduce your need to visit a branch. Some banks also partner with retailers like Walmart or CVS to let customers deposit cash at the register, though this service is less common and usually charges a fee.

Fees and limits on ATM cash deposits

Your own bank does not charge a fee for depositing cash at their ATMs. However, if you deposit at an out-of-network ATM, you may face two separate charges: one from the ATM operator and one from your bank. These fees typically range from $1 to $3 per transaction.

Banks also set daily and monthly limits on ATM deposits. A common limit is $5,000 per day or $10,000 per month, though this varies by bank and account type. Large deposits may trigger fraud monitoring and require verification. If you regularly deposit large amounts of cash, ask your bank about their limits and whether you should use a teller instead.

How to find ATMs that accept cash deposits near you

Start by visiting your bank's website or mobile app — most have an ATM locator tool that filters for machines with deposit capability. Search for "ATMs near me" and select the option to show deposit-enabled machines only. The map will show which branches and partner locations have them.

If your bank is part of an ATM network, you can also search that network's locator. Allpoint, MoneyPass, and Surcharge-Free Network all have online tools where you enter your location and see participating ATMs. Keep in mind that network ATMs may not all accept deposits, so confirm before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit cash at a bank ATM if I do not have an account there?

No. ATMs require you to insert your debit card or enter your account number to process a deposit. You cannot deposit into an account you do not own. Some banks do allow customers to deposit cash into other people's accounts at teller windows, but ATMs do not offer this option.

What if the ATM rejects my cash deposit?

The machine may reject cash if it is torn, heavily marked, or too worn to read. It may also reject the deposit if you have reached your daily or monthly limit, or if the machine's deposit slot is full. Try a different ATM or visit a teller window instead. Keep your receipt in case you need to dispute the transaction.

Do ATM cash deposits post immediately?

Most deposits post the same day if made before your bank's cutoff time (usually 2 or 3 p.m. on a business day). Deposits made after hours or on weekends typically post the next business day. Check your bank's website for their specific cutoff times.

Can I deposit cash at a convenience store ATM?

Most convenience store ATMs are withdrawal-only and do not accept deposits. Some retailers like Walmart or CVS offer cash deposit services at their registers, but these are separate from ATMs and usually charge a fee. Ask at the customer service desk whether your location offers this service.

What is the maximum amount I can deposit at an ATM?

Limits vary by bank and account type, but common maximums are $5,000 per day or $10,000 per month. Large deposits may also trigger fraud monitoring. Contact your bank to confirm your specific limits, or ask a teller about depositing larger amounts in person.