How To Deposit Cash At An ATM

Quick Answer

Most ATMs accept cash deposits.
You’ll typically need your debit card and PIN.
Follow the on-screen prompts for depositing cash.
Some ATMs require an envelope; others have a direct slot.
Verify the transaction details before confirming.
Keep your receipt for your records.

Who This Is For

Individuals who receive cash payments and want to deposit them directly into their bank account.
People who prefer the convenience of ATM banking over visiting a branch.
Those looking for a quick and efficient way to add funds to their checking or savings account outside of traditional banking hours.

What to Check First (Before You Act)

Your Bank’s ATM Network

Before heading to an ATM, confirm that it belongs to your bank’s network or a partner network. Using an ATM outside your network might result in fees. Check your bank’s website or mobile app for ATM locations.

ATM Deposit Limits

Some ATMs have daily limits on how much cash you can deposit at once or per day. If you plan to deposit a large sum, it’s wise to check with your bank about any potential limits to avoid issues.

Account Type and Card

Ensure you have the correct debit card linked to the account you wish to deposit into. Not all accounts may be eligible for ATM cash deposits, though this is uncommon for standard checking and savings accounts.

Step 1: Locate an ATM

Find an ATM that accepts cash deposits. This is usually one associated with your bank or a partner network. Look for signage on the ATM or check your bank’s app for designated deposit-taking machines.

What “good” looks like: You’ve identified an ATM that clearly states it accepts cash deposits.
Common mistake and how to avoid it: Assuming all ATMs accept cash deposits. Avoid: Always look for confirmation or check your bank’s locator tool.

Step 2: Insert Your Debit Card

Insert your debit card into the card reader, following the on-screen instructions regarding the orientation of the card.

What “good” looks like: The ATM reads your card and prompts you for your PIN.
Common mistake and how to avoid it: Inserting the card upside down or backward. Avoid: Pay attention to the arrow and the diagram on the ATM.

Step 3: Enter Your PIN

Carefully enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) using the keypad. Be mindful of your surroundings to prevent others from seeing your PIN.

What “good” looks like: The ATM accepts your PIN and proceeds to the next step.
Common mistake and how to avoid it: Typing your PIN too slowly or too quickly, or mistyping it. Avoid: Enter your PIN deliberately and accurately. If you make a mistake, use the “clear” or “cancel” button.

Step 4: Select “Deposit”

Navigate the on-screen menu and select the option for making a deposit. This might be labeled “Deposit,” “Make a Deposit,” or something similar.

What “good” looks like: The ATM presents you with deposit options.
Common mistake and how to avoid it: Accidentally selecting the wrong transaction type. Avoid: Read each prompt carefully before making a selection.

Step 5: Choose Account Type

Specify whether you are depositing into your checking account or savings account.

What “good” looks like: The ATM confirms the target account.
Common mistake and how to avoid it: Depositing into the wrong account. Avoid: Double-check that the account displayed is the one you intend to use.

Step 6: Prepare Your Cash

Count your cash and organize it. Remove any paper clips, rubber bands, or folds that might jam the machine. Ensure bills are not torn or excessively creased.

What “good” looks like: Your cash is neatly stacked and ready for insertion.
Common mistake and how to avoid it: Presenting crumpled, torn, or bundled bills. Avoid: Smooth out your bills and remove any fasteners.

Step 7: Insert Cash

Follow the ATM’s instructions for inserting your cash. Some ATMs have a dedicated slot where you feed the bills, while others may require you to place them in an envelope. If using an envelope, ensure you fill it out completely and accurately.

What “good” looks like: The ATM accepts your cash without error.
Common mistake and how to avoid it: Trying to force bills into a slot that isn’t designed for direct insertion, or not filling out the envelope properly. Avoid: Read the instructions on the ATM screen carefully. If it’s an envelope deposit, use the provided envelope and fill it out accurately.

Step 8: Verify Deposit Amount

The ATM will likely count your cash and display the total amount deposited on the screen. Review this amount carefully to ensure it is accurate.

What “good” looks like: The amount displayed matches the cash you intended to deposit.
Common mistake and how to avoid it: Not verifying the amount. Avoid: Always check the on-screen total against your own count.

Step 9: Confirm Transaction

Once you are satisfied with the deposit amount and account selection, confirm the transaction.

What “good” looks like: The ATM finalizes the deposit.
Common mistake and how to avoid it: Accidentally canceling the transaction before confirmation. Avoid: Wait for the confirmation screen before assuming the deposit is complete.

Step 10: Take Your Receipt

Always take your receipt. It serves as proof of your transaction and is essential if any discrepancies arise later.

What “good” looks like: You have a physical or digital receipt for your records.
Common mistake and how to avoid it: Forgetting to take the receipt. Avoid: Make it a habit to always grab your receipt.

Common Mistakes and What Happens If You Ignore Them

Mistake	What It Causes	Fix
Using an out-of-network ATM	Unexpected withdrawal fees from the ATM owner and potentially your bank.	Stick to your bank’s ATMs or those in its partner network. Check your bank’s app for locations.
Not verifying deposit amount	The bank records a different amount than what you deposited.	Always compare the ATM’s displayed total with your own count before confirming.
Depositing damaged or folded bills	The ATM may reject the bills, or the deposit may fail entirely.	Ensure bills are smooth, not torn, and free of paper clips or rubber bands.
Forgetting your receipt	Lack of proof of transaction if there’s a dispute or error.	Always take your receipt. If offered a digital option, consider saving it.
Not checking deposit limits	Your deposit may be rejected if it exceeds the ATM’s daily limit.	Contact your bank to inquire about ATM deposit limits, especially for large amounts.
Entering the wrong PIN multiple times	Your card may be temporarily blocked or permanently retained by the ATM.	Be careful and accurate when entering your PIN. If unsure, cancel and try again later.
Not confirming the correct account	Funds are deposited into the wrong account, requiring a lengthy correction.	Always verify the account (checking/savings) displayed on the screen before confirming.
Using a non-deposit-taking ATM	The ATM will not accept your cash, wasting your time.	Confirm the ATM accepts cash deposits before you begin the transaction.
Not removing staples/paper clips	Can jam the ATM’s mechanism, potentially causing a transaction failure.	Thoroughly inspect your cash and remove any foreign objects.
Depositing foreign currency	Most ATMs only accept domestic currency.	Confirm the ATM’s capabilities; typically, only US dollars are accepted in US ATMs.

Decision Rules

If you are unsure if an ATM accepts cash deposits, then check your bank’s mobile app or website first because this information is usually readily available.
If you have a large amount of cash to deposit, then contact your bank beforehand because there may be daily limits or specific procedures for larger sums.
If your debit card is not recognized by the ATM, then try a different ATM from your bank’s network because the issue might be with the specific machine.
If you are depositing cash into a savings account, then ensure you select “Savings” when prompted because depositing into the wrong account can cause delays.
If the ATM requires an envelope and you don’t have one, then find an ATM that accepts direct cash insertion or visit a branch because using the wrong method can lead to errors.
If you notice an error in the deposit amount on the screen, then do not confirm the transaction and cancel it because you can re-attempt the deposit after recounting your cash.
If you are depositing cash at an ATM not affiliated with your bank, then be aware of potential fees because out-of-network ATMs often charge for transactions.
If your cash is wrinkled or slightly torn, then try to smooth it out before inserting it because damaged bills can cause the ATM to reject them.
If you are depositing cash after banking hours, then rest assured that most ATMs are available 24/7 for this service because this is a primary convenience feature.
If you are depositing a mix of bills of different denominations, then organize them neatly before insertion because this can help the ATM process them more efficiently.
If you are concerned about security, then use ATMs in well-lit, public areas and shield the keypad when entering your PIN because personal safety is paramount.

FAQ

Can I deposit cash at any ATM?

No, not all ATMs are equipped to accept cash deposits. You should confirm that the ATM belongs to your bank or a partner network and is specifically designed for cash deposits.

What happens if I deposit more cash than the ATM displays?

If you believe there’s a discrepancy, do not confirm the transaction. Cancel it and recount your cash. If the issue arises after confirmation, contact your bank immediately with your receipt.

How quickly will the cash deposit appear in my account?

For most banks, cash deposits made at an ATM are typically credited to your account within one business day, often sooner. However, some transactions may have a longer hold period.

Can I deposit checks and cash at the same ATM?

Many ATMs that accept cash deposits also accept check deposits. The process will be similar, with the ATM guiding you through inserting the check.

What should I do if the ATM keeps my card?

If the ATM retains your card, contact your bank immediately. They will guide you through the process of retrieving your card or issuing a new one.

Is there a fee for depositing cash at an ATM?

Depositing cash at an ATM owned by your bank or its partners is usually free. However, using an ATM outside your bank’s network may incur fees from the ATM owner.

What if the ATM is out of envelopes?

If an ATM requires envelopes for cash deposits and is out, you won’t be able to complete the transaction there. You’ll need to find another ATM that accepts direct cash insertion or visit a bank branch.

Can I deposit foreign currency at a US ATM?

Generally, no. US ATMs are typically set up to accept only US dollars. For foreign currency exchange and deposits, you would need to visit a bank branch or a specialized currency exchange service.

What This Page Does Not Cover (and Where to Go Next)

Specific Bank Policies: This article provides general guidance. Your bank may have unique rules, deposit limits, or procedures.
Where to go next: Consult your bank’s official website or contact their customer service.
International ATM Deposits: Procedures and currency acceptance vary significantly outside the US.
Where to go next: Research the banking regulations and ATM services of the country you are visiting or interacting with.
Large Cash Transactions and Reporting Requirements: Very large cash deposits may be subject to reporting requirements by financial institutions.
Where to go next: Consult with your bank or a financial advisor regarding any legal or regulatory considerations for substantial cash transactions.
ATM Malfunctions and Disputes: Detailed steps for resolving ATM errors beyond basic discrepancy checks.
Where to go next: Refer to your bank’s dispute resolution process or contact the bank’s fraud department.