ATM Cash Deposits: What You Need to Know Before You Try

Think you can walk up to any ATM and deposit your cash? Not quite. While traditional banks have made this possible at many locations, it’s not a guaranteed option everywhere—especially at online banks or out-of-network machines. Let’s break down exactly what you need to know about putting money into an ATM.

The Real Deal on ATM Cash Deposits

Here’s the thing: not every ATM accepts cash deposits. There’s no universal standard across all financial institutions. Some banks allow deposits at their branch ATMs and in-network machines, while others are far more restrictive. Capital One, for instance, caps one-time cash deposits at $5,000. Wells Fargo has a different restriction—you can deposit up to 30 bills and checks combined in a single transaction at their ATMs.

Your bank sets the rules, and they vary. Some institutions place limits on dollar amounts, others on the number of individual bills you can insert. The bottom line? Check with your specific bank before showing up at an ATM with a stack of cash.

How to Actually Deposit Cash at an ATM: Step-by-Step

The process is straightforward, but the specifics depend on your bank and the machine type:

Before you go: Verify that your bank’s ATM accepts deposits. Find the nearest eligible machine through your bank’s website or mobile app. If you’re depositing checks, sign them beforehand and count your cash.

At the machine: Insert your debit or ATM card and enter your PIN. Some banks now offer cardless access through your phone—check if yours does. Select the deposit option and choose which account receives the funds.

Making the deposit: Insert your bills and checks. Many modern ATMs don’t require envelopes anymore, but older machines might. If an envelope is required, fill in the blanks and place your cash inside before inserting it.

Finish up: Confirm the deposit amount shown on the screen, grab your receipt, remove your card, and wait. In-network deposits typically appear within the same day or by the next business day. Out-of-network deposits? That’s a different story.

Depositing at an ATM That Isn’t Your Bank

This is where things get complicated. Not all banks accept out-of-network ATM deposits. If yours does, prepare for longer processing times. PNC Bank, for example, allows deposits at non-PNC ATMs, but your funds might not be available for up to four business days.

There’s another consideration: the ATM operator might charge a fee. Some banks reimburse these out-of-network ATM fees; others charge you an additional fee on top of what the operator takes. Always check your bank’s policy before attempting this.

Online Banks: Different Rules Apply

Online banks typically don’t offer cash deposit options at ATMs—it’s one of the trade-offs for their lower fees and higher interest rates. These institutions save money by avoiding physical branch overhead, which means they can’t accommodate cash deposits the same way.

However, a few exceptions exist. Radius Bank allows fee-free cash deposits at in-network ATMs. Capital One 360 accepts cash at ATMs in Capital One Cafés and branch locations, though not through its Allpoint partner network. If you bank with an online institution, ask directly about their cash deposit options before opening an account.

How Much Can You Actually Deposit?

There’s generally no universal dollar limit for ATM deposits. However, most banks have restrictions on the number of individual bills per transaction rather than total dollar amounts. Wells Fargo’s 30-bill limit is an example—that could be $30 or $3,000 depending on the denominations.

Your specific bank determines these caps, so confirm yours beforehand. Don’t assume you can deposit unlimited amounts just because the machine accepts cash.

Safety Matters When You’re Using ATMs

ATM deposits involve physical cash and your banking information. Be smart about it. Choose well-lit locations in safe areas. Check your surroundings before approaching the machine. If something feels off, use a different ATM or visit your branch instead. Your security is worth the inconvenience.

What If You Want to Withdraw Instead?

Most people know ATMs have withdrawal limits—usually between $300 and $1,000 per day, varying by bank. These limits exist for security reasons. If you need more cash, visit your bank branch or split your withdrawal across multiple days.

The Bottom Line

You can deposit cash at many ATMs, but you need to do your homework first. Not every ATM accepts deposits. Not every out-of-network ATM works for cash. Online banks often don’t support this option at all. Before you attempt a deposit, verify your bank’s policies, identify which ATMs you can use, and understand any fees or restrictions that apply. Five minutes of research now saves frustration and potential fees later.