If you’re wondering whether you can deposit cash at an ATM, the answer is yes you can, but not all ATMs accept cash.
Fees and other details vary from bank to bank, and if you use an online-only bank you might not be able to deposit cash at all. Luckily, there are a few ways to deposit cash into your bank account.
Can I deposit cash at an ATM?
You can often deposit cash at an ATM, but it depends on a few factors.
First, you need to check whether your bank allows you to deposit cash through an ATM. Most large brick-and-mortar banks do.
Next, you need to find an ATM that accepts cash deposits. For example, in the Allpoint ATM network, only ATMs with the “Allpoint +” logo accept cash deposits.
Many online-only banks don’t allow cash deposits, which can make it difficult to fund your account.
One solution is to choose an automated clearing house transfer from another bank account that allows cash deposits. Alternatively, some online-only banks offer non-traditional ways to deposit cash. For example, your Current account lets you add cash by depositing at more than 60,000 retailers, including participating stores like CVS Pharmacy and Walmart. However, this isn’t free; Current charges a $3.50 fee for each deposit.
How to deposit cash at an ATM
Although the process varies by bank, depositing cash at any ATM that accepts cash deposits is easy — all you need is your debit card and some cash to deposit.
- Access your accountInsert your debit card and enter your PIN. Once you’re signed in, all your account information will be displayed.
- Select an account and actionSelect “Deposit” from the options on the screen and choose the account you want to deposit to.
- Enter your invoice according to your bank’s instructionsYou will need to insert the bills directly into the deposit slot or into the provided envelope first, then follow the on-screen instructions.
- Check the total amountAfter the ATM counts your cash, you’ll be asked to confirm the amount and which account you want it to go to. Click the button to confirm and the funds will be deposited.
- Get a receipt for your transactionSelect a transaction receipt to get a record of your deposit via print, email, or text.
These steps only apply if you’re depositing cash into your own bank account. To deposit cash into someone else’s account, you’ll need to choose a different option.
Be aware of your surroundings when depositing cash
Be careful when depositing cash at ATMs as you may be a target for robbers. Visit ATMs during the day and make sure the screen is covered when entering your ATM PIN. Insert cash carefully and always use caution.
Is there a limit to the amount I can deposit at an ATM?
Most banks have limits on the amount of cash you can deposit at an ATM, but you’re more likely to face a limit on the number of bills you can insert at one time, rather than a limit on the amount. For example, US Bank allows you to deposit up to 50 bills at a time, regardless of the denomination of the bills.
One advantage of depositing cash over a check is that your funds are available more quickly, regardless of the amount you deposit.
ATM locations that accept cash deposits
To find an ATM that accepts cash deposits, you have a few options.
- Bank branch
- The easiest way to find a cash deposit ATM is to visit a bank branch. Check with your bank to see if they have a cash deposit ATM in your local branch.
- ATM Network Partnerships
- Some banks partner with other financial institutions or ATM networks to expand their reach. Check to see if your bank is affiliated with another network that offers cash deposit ATMs, such as the Allpoint+, Co-op, or MoneyPass ATM networks.
- Online ATM Locator
- Various websites and apps specialize in providing comprehensive ATM location services and may allow you to filter your search based on ATMs that accept cash deposits. For example, the MoneyPass ATM locator has a filter for ATMs that accept deposits.
- Customer Service Hotline
- If you can’t find an ATM to deposit cash, you can always contact your bank’s customer support line and they will be able to provide you with information about nearby ATMs and whether they accept cash deposits.
Can I deposit cash at ATMs other than those at banks?
You cannot deposit cash outside your bank’s network unless the ATM is affiliated with your bank. Some banks will allow you to deposit cash at out-of-network ATMs, but they will charge you a fee. Also, be aware that out-of-network ATM vendors may charge their own fees on top of the fees your bank charges. In addition to charging fees, some banks may also charge you longer to deposit cash at out-of-network ATMs than in-network ATMs.
Before you go to an out-of-network ATM for your banking, it’s important to be clear about fees and processing times.
Conclusion
ATMs are a great way to deposit cash. Depending on where you live, you may be able to easily deposit money using ATMs from major banks. Many online banks limit cash deposits, but there are some options that make it easier to do so.
–Freelance writer Dori Jin This article has been updated by former Bankrate writer Renée Bennett Freelance writer Lauren Ward provided an earlier update to this article.
