Yes, you can deposit cash and checks into most ATMs
Most ATMs accept both cash and check deposits, though not every machine at every bank does. The machine has to be equipped with a deposit slot — older ATMs or those in remote locations may only allow withdrawals. If you're depositing into your own bank's ATM, the deposit usually posts to your account the same day or by the next business day. Deposits made at ATMs owned by other banks may take longer to reach your account, depending on your bank's policies and the networks involved.
The process is straightforward: insert your card, choose "deposit," follow the on-screen prompts, and feed the cash or checks into the slot. The machine scans the items, shows you an image of what it received, and asks you to confirm the amount. If everything looks correct, you complete the transaction and get a receipt.
Key Takeaways
- ATM deposits of cash and checks post faster when you use your own bank's machine, usually within one business day.
- Deposits at other banks' ATMs may take two to five business days to reach your account, depending on your bank's processing rules.
- The ATM scans your deposit and shows you an image before finalizing the transaction, so you can catch errors on the spot.
- Some ATMs only accept checks, some only accept cash, and some accept both — check your bank's website or the machine itself to know what it takes.
- ATM deposits are available 24/7, but your bank processes them during business hours, so weekend deposits post on Monday.
How ATM deposits reach your account
When you deposit cash into your bank's ATM, the machine counts it and credits your account immediately in most cases. You see the deposit reflected in your balance right away, though the bank may place a hold on the funds for one business day depending on the amount and your account history.
Check deposits work differently. The ATM scans the front and back of the check and sends the images to your bank's processing center. Your bank verifies the check information, confirms the funds are available at the issuing bank, and then deposits the money into your account. This process typically takes one to two business days for checks deposited at your own bank's ATM.
If you deposit at an ATM belonging to a different bank, your deposit goes through an intermediary network. Your bank has to receive the deposit from that other bank's system, which adds time. Most banks allow two to five business days for these deposits to post, though some may take longer.
Deposits at your bank's ATM versus other banks' ATMs
Using your own bank's ATM is faster and more reliable. Your bank owns the machine, controls the processing, and can post deposits to your account the same day. You also have direct recourse if something goes wrong — your bank can investigate immediately because they control both ends of the transaction.
Deposits at other banks' ATMs are slower because your bank has to wait for the other bank to send the deposit through a shared network. The other bank may batch deposits and send them once or twice a day, which delays when your bank receives the information. Some banks charge a fee for deposits made at non-affiliated ATMs, so check your account terms before using a competitor's machine regularly.
If you use a shared ATM network like Allpoint or MoneyPass, deposits may move faster than at a completely unaffiliated bank, but still slower than at your own bank's machine. Check your bank's website to see which networks it participates in.
What happens if the ATM rejects your deposit
ATMs reject deposits for specific reasons: the cash is torn or damaged, a check is illegible or missing required information, or the machine's scanner cannot read the item. When this happens, the machine returns the item to you immediately and does not process a deposit. You get a receipt showing the rejection, and your account is not charged.
If the machine accepts your deposit but you later notice an error — the amount shown on screen was wrong, or the deposit never posted — contact your bank right away. Most banks have a dispute process for ATM deposits. Bring your receipt and any documentation you have. Your bank can review the scanned images the ATM captured and investigate whether the deposit was processed correctly.
Damaged bills or checks with missing information (like a signature or routing number) are the most common reasons for rejection. Before you deposit, make sure checks have all required fields filled in and that cash is in reasonable condition.
Daily and monthly deposit limits at ATMs
Most banks set a daily limit on how much you can deposit at an ATM, typically between $5,000 and $10,000 per day. Some banks have no limit, while others set separate limits for cash and checks. These limits exist partly for security and partly to manage the physical capacity of the machine.
If you need to deposit more than your bank's daily limit, you can make multiple deposits on different days, or you can go inside the bank during business hours and deposit at the teller window. Teller deposits have higher limits and post immediately.
Check your bank's website or call customer service to find out what your specific daily limit is. Limits vary by bank and sometimes by account type, so do not assume the limit is the same across all your accounts.
When ATM deposits do not post immediately
Weekend and holiday deposits do not post until the next business day. If you deposit on Friday evening, the bank processes it on Monday morning. The same applies to deposits made on a holiday — they wait until the next business day to be processed.
Large deposits may trigger a hold. Federal regulations allow banks to hold deposits for up to seven business days if the amount is unusual for your account or if your account is new. Your bank will notify you of any hold and tell you when the funds will be available. This is not a problem with the deposit itself; it is a standard security measure.
If you deposited a check and it has not posted after five business days, contact your bank. Checks can bounce or be returned for insufficient funds, and your bank needs to verify the funds cleared at the issuing bank before the deposit is final.
ATM deposits versus mobile check deposit
Many banks now offer mobile check deposit through their app, where you photograph the front and back of a check and submit it from your phone. Mobile deposit is faster for checks — some banks post mobile deposits within hours rather than one to two days. However, mobile deposit only works for checks, not cash.
ATM deposits work for both cash and checks, and they are available 24/7 without needing a smartphone or app. If you have a mix of cash and checks, the ATM is your only option. If you only have checks and want the fastest posting, mobile deposit may be quicker, but ATM deposit is still reliable and takes only one business day at most banks.
Some people use both methods depending on the situation: mobile deposit for checks during the week when they need speed, and ATM deposit for cash or when they are out and about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit cash into any bank's ATM?
You can deposit cash into any ATM that has a deposit slot, but it will take longer to post if the ATM belongs to a different bank. Your own bank's ATM is always the fastest option. Some ATMs only accept checks, so look for the deposit slot or check the screen before you try.
How long does it take for an ATM deposit to show up in my account?
Deposits at your own bank's ATM usually post the same day or by the next business day. Deposits at other banks' ATMs typically take two to five business days. Weekend and holiday deposits do not post until the next business day.
What should I do if the ATM keeps my deposit?
ATMs do not keep deposits — they either accept and process them or reject them and return the items to you. If the machine rejects your deposit, it gives the cash or checks back immediately. If you believe the machine accepted your deposit but it never posted, contact your bank with your receipt and they can investigate using the scanned images.
Is there a limit to how much I can deposit at an ATM?
Most banks set a daily ATM deposit limit between $5,000 and $10,000, though some have no limit. Check your bank's website or call to find your specific limit. If you need to deposit more, you can make multiple deposits on different days or visit a teller inside the bank.
Can I deposit a check that is not signed?
No. Checks must be signed by the issuer and endorsed by you (the person depositing it) on the back. If either signature is missing, the ATM will reject the check. Make sure all required information is filled in before you deposit.