Yes, it’s possible to deposit cash at some ATMs, depending on your bank. Most large banks and credit unions in the U.S. have thousands of ATMs that accept cash deposits. You can use your bank’s ATM locator to identify them.
If you find that you’re nowhere near an in-network ATM that accepts cash, you’re not totally out of luck. There are other options, too.
How do I deposit cash at an ATM?
First, you need to find the right ATM.
Use the ATM locator offered by your banking institution. Many offer one on their website and on their app where you can often filter your search by functionality (such as “accepts deposits”) and by type (such as ATMs versus partner ATMs).
If your bank doesn’t offer an ATM finder, look at your ATM card or debit card itself to see the ATM brands listed on it.
You usually need an in-network ATM that is branded by your bank rather than one managed by a third-party partner like Allpoint or MoneyPass. Third-party ATMs that are able to accept deposits may still not accept a cash deposit from you, depending on their contract with your bank.
If you have any questions, check with your bank before you make a trip. Here are links to ATM locators for some of the largest American banking institutions.
When you’re at the ATM and ready to deposit cash, take the following steps:
- Sign in. To access your bank account, insert your debit card and enter your personal identification number (PIN) when prompted. Some banks offer cardless ATM access, which allows you to pull up your digital wallet and hold your mobile device over the contactless reader instead, though you’ll still enter your PIN when prompted.
- Pick the right account. If you have multiple accounts, such as a checking and a savings account, you’ll need to choose which one the money is going into.
- Elect “deposit.” Look through the options on the screen and select the one that allows you to deposit cash.
- Insert the bills. Put the cash into the deposit slot when prompted. You’ll need to stick to U.S. dollar bills, as you typically can’t deposit coins or foreign currency at ATMs. Depending on the machine, you may need to put the cash in an envelope first.
- Confirm the amount. Check the screen to make sure the ATM counted correctly.
- Get a receipt. Keeping a record of your deposit may come in handy if there are any issues with the transaction. You may be able to choose whether you want the receipt printed, emailed or texted to you.
- Complete the transaction. Take out your debit card and confirm the transaction is complete.
Check your account to make sure the funds show up in your account when they’re supposed to. With in-network ATMs, deposits are usually available immediately, within the same day or on the next business day. Deposits made at out-of-network ATMs can take three business days.
If the money isn’t there or it’s an incorrect amount, call the ATM company for guidance.
How much can you deposit at an ATM?
The amount you can deposit at an ATM depends on the bank and the specific machine you’re using. You can check your financial institution’s website or app ahead of time.
“Most networks do not have deposit limits, but an individual ATM may have a limit on how many individual bills it can process at a time,” said Cyrus Purnell, a certified financial planner and coach at Financial Finesse in Memphis.
For example, Chase and Wells Fargo have a limit of 30 bills or checks. Its ATMs process only 30 individual paper deposits at a time, regardless of denomination. If you have more, you’ll need to do a separate transaction.
The institutions that do have ATM deposit limits tend to set them high. Credit union Co-op AMTs have a daily deposit limit of $10,000.
What if the ATM is out of network?
It’s rather rare for an out-of-network ATM to accept your cash deposits. If you find an ATM that allows out-of-network deposits keep in mind that your bank may charge you a fee on top of the ATM operator’s fee. The processing time may take longer too, according to Purnell.
If it’ll be a while before you’re back in the ATM network and there are no branches near you, check out the three options in the next section.
Depositing cash into your online bank account
Online-only banks usually don’t offer a network of brick-and-mortar branches, but many participate in shared ATM networks. For instance, Ally and Sofi partner with Allpoint. But your ATM transactions may be limited.
If your online bank doesn’t allow cash deposits, you still have options:
- Use a money order. Buy a money order with cash and then use a mobile check deposit to move it into your online bank account.
- Get a wire transfer. This may be good if you need to pay a bill or, if you just want to get the cash out of your pocket, you could send one to yourself.
- Open another bank account. Open an account at a branch near you, deposit the cash at that bank, then link your new account to your primary bank and transfer the money (or use the new bank account).
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Yes, some third-party ATMs allow you to deposit cash. You’ll need to check the specific ATM.
An ATM deposit hold is when you don’t have access to the money just yet, even though you deposited the cash. Financial institutions typically make in-network, ATM cash deposits available within the first business day after you make it.
You typically won’t pay any fees to deposit cash at an in-network ATM, but check your account terms and conditions if you’re unsure. If you’re depositing cash at an out-of-network ATM, on the other hand, you’ll likely pay a fee to the ATM operator and to your own bank.
Because you’re handling cash that can be stolen, always be aware of your surroundings. If you feel unsafe at any time, cancel the transaction and leave immediately.
For best safety practices, Bank of America suggests:
- At drive-up ATMs, keep your doors locked, your engine running and only have the driver’s window lowered.
- For ATMs in an enclosed area, close the door behind you.
- At night, take someone with you.
