Yes, you can deposit cash and checks at most ATMs, but not all machines offer this feature

Many ATMs accept both cash and check deposits, though the machine has to be equipped for it. You'll see a slot labeled for deposits — usually separate from the cash withdrawal slot — or a single opening that handles both. Not every ATM has deposit capability; machines in convenience stores or gas stations often don't. Your bank's website or app will show which machines near you accept deposits, or you can call the bank directly.

Depositing at an ATM works differently than depositing at a teller. The machine scans your check or counts your cash, then holds it in a secure vault until a bank employee verifies it later — usually the next business day. Your account gets credited based on what the machine reads, not what you physically hand over, so errors can happen if the machine misreads a check amount or a bill gets jammed.

Key Takeaways

  • ATM deposits are held in a secure vault and verified by bank staff the next business day, not credited instantly like a teller deposit.
  • You can deposit cash, checks, or both at ATMs equipped with deposit slots, but the machine must belong to your bank or a network your bank participates in.
  • Check deposits at ATMs work best for legible checks with clear routing and account numbers; damaged or unclear checks may be rejected during verification.
  • If the ATM rejects your deposit or misreads an amount, contact your bank within one business day to report the error and request a correction.

What types of deposits ATMs accept

Most ATMs that take deposits accept both cash and checks. Cash deposits are straightforward — you insert bills and the machine counts them. Checks require the same information a teller would need: your account number, the bank's routing number, and a legible signature on the back. The machine scans the check image and reads the amount, so the check must be endorsed and the numbers must be clear.

Some ATMs accept only checks, not cash. Others accept cash only. A few accept mobile deposits or other forms, depending on your bank's setup. Before you head to an ATM, check your bank's app or website to confirm what that specific machine takes. If you're using an ATM from a different bank, check whether your bank has a network agreement with it — many do through shared networks like Allpoint or MoneyPass, but deposit features may not be included in the agreement.

How the deposit process works at an ATM

Insert your debit card and enter your PIN, just as you would for a withdrawal. Navigate to the deposit menu. For cash, the machine will ask how much you're depositing, then you insert the bills into the slot. For checks, you'll insert the check into the designated slot. The machine scans it, displays the amount it read, and asks you to confirm. Review the amount carefully — if it's wrong, you can cancel and try again or contact your bank.

Once you confirm, the machine stores your deposit in its vault and prints a receipt showing the amount, date, and time. Your account is credited based on what the machine recorded, not what you deposited. If the machine jams, rejects the item, or misreads the amount, you'll get a message on screen. Keep your receipt and contact your bank immediately if something went wrong — most banks have a window of one business day to report errors before the deposit is considered final.

When ATM deposits take effect in your account

ATM deposits don't post instantly. The machine holds your cash or check in a secure vault, and a bank employee verifies it during business hours — usually the next business day. For checks, the bank also processes them through the clearing system, which can add another one to two business days depending on the check's origin. Your account shows a pending deposit immediately after you complete the transaction, but the funds may not be available to spend until the verification is done.

Some banks offer next-business-day availability for ATM cash deposits, meaning you can withdraw or transfer the money the following day. Checks typically take longer — often two to three business days total. Your bank's deposit policy will tell you the exact timeline. If you need the money urgently, a teller deposit during business hours is faster because the teller verifies the amount on the spot.

Problems that can happen with ATM deposits

The most common issue is a misread amount. If the machine can't read a check clearly — because the numbers are faint, the check is damaged, or the image is blurry — it may record the wrong amount or reject the check entirely. Cash deposits can jam if bills are folded, torn, or inserted incorrectly. If the machine rejects your deposit, it will return the item and print a message explaining why.

Another risk is depositing to the wrong account. Double-check that you've selected the correct account before confirming, especially if you have multiple accounts at the same bank. If you deposit to the wrong account, contact your bank right away — they can usually reverse it, but the process takes time. Keep your receipt as proof of what you deposited and when, in case you need to dispute the transaction later.

ATM deposits versus teller deposits

A teller deposit is verified immediately and posted the same day, while an ATM deposit is verified the next business day. A teller can spot problems with a check on the spot — a missing signature, illegible numbers, or a post-dated check — and tell you before you leave. An ATM can't; it just scans and stores. If a check is rejected during verification, you won't know for a day or more.

Teller deposits are also more reliable for large amounts or unusual checks. If you're depositing a check from an out-of-state bank, a business check, or a check with any irregularities, a teller can advise you on how long it will take to clear and whether there are any holds. ATMs are convenient for routine deposits during off-hours, but for anything complex or time-sensitive, a teller is the safer choice.

How to find an ATM that accepts deposits

Open your bank's mobile app or website and look for the ATM locator tool. Most banks let you filter by features — select "deposit" or "cash deposit" to see only machines that accept them. You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask which ATMs near you have deposit capability. If you use an out-of-network ATM, confirm with your bank that deposits are included in the network agreement; some shared networks don't support deposits.

If your bank doesn't have many ATMs with deposit capability nearby, ask about mobile check deposit as an alternative. Many banks let you photograph a check with your phone and submit it through the app, which is faster and more convenient than finding an ATM. Mobile deposit has the same verification timeline as an ATM deposit but doesn't require you to go anywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit a check at any bank's ATM?

No. You can only deposit at an ATM owned by your bank or a bank in a network your bank participates in. Using an out-of-network ATM for deposits may result in fees or rejection. Check your bank's website to confirm which machines accept deposits from your account.

What happens if the ATM rejects my check?

The machine will return the check and display an error message. Common reasons include a missing signature, illegible numbers, or damage to the check. Take the check to a teller during business hours, or contact your bank to ask what's wrong before trying again.

Can I deposit a check that's made out to someone else?

No. The check must be made out to you or to you and another person. If it's made out to someone else, they must endorse it to you, and you'll need to sign it as well. ATMs won't accept checks with multiple endorsements or unclear ownership.

How much money can I deposit at an ATM?

Most ATMs have daily deposit limits set by your bank, typically ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Check your bank's website or app for your specific limit. If you need to deposit more, use a teller or split the deposit across multiple days.

Will I get a receipt for my ATM deposit?

Yes. The ATM prints a receipt showing the amount deposited, the date, time, and a reference number. Keep this receipt until the deposit posts to your account, in case you need to dispute it or prove you made the deposit.