Will You Be Able to Deposit Money at Any ATM? What Banks Want You to Know

While digital banking continues to grow, traditional ATMs still serve an important purpose—especially when you need to deposit money directly into your account. The short answer? Not necessarily at every ATM. Most banks and credit unions support cash deposits at their own branch ATMs or within their network, but this capability varies widely across financial institutions. Online-only banks, for example, often require you to follow different procedures to deposit money. Let’s explore what you need to know about making cash deposits at ATMs.

The Quick Answer: Not All ATMs Accept Deposits

Here’s the reality: you cannot deposit money at every ATM you encounter. Banks set their own rules about which machines accept deposits, and there’s no universal standard. While many major financial institutions allow customers to deposit money at their in-network ATMs, others—particularly online banks—don’t offer this feature at all.

Some banks do impose deposit limits. Capital One, for instance, caps single cash deposits at $5,000. Beyond dollar amounts, certain banks restrict how many individual bills or checks you can insert in one transaction. Wells Fargo, to cite one example, allows a maximum of 30 bills and checks combined per deposit.

Understanding ATM Deposit Limitations and Restrictions

Before you assume you can deposit money at an ATM, understand these key restrictions:

Dollar Amount Caps: Some banks set maximum deposit limits per transaction. Capital One’s $5,000 ceiling is one example. Check your bank’s policy to see if such limits apply to your account.

Bill Count Restrictions: Many machines limit how many individual bills or checks you can insert. Wells Fargo’s 30-bill-and-checks limit is a common example. Your bank or the ATM itself may enforce these rules.

Machine Type: Not all ATMs have deposit capability. Withdrawal-only machines are common, particularly at retail locations or ATMs operated by independent providers.

Network Requirements: Most banks only allow deposits at branch ATMs or machines within their affiliated network. Out-of-network deposits, when available, typically take longer to process.

To avoid disappointment, check your bank’s website or mobile app before attempting a deposit. Most banks maintain a list of ATMs that accept deposits.

Step-by-Step Guide to Depositing Money at an ATM

The process is straightforward once you’ve found an eligible machine:

1. Prepare your deposit. If you’re depositing checks, sign them in advance. Count your cash to know the exact amount. Organize your bills and checks.

2. Locate the right machine. Use your bank’s website or app to find an ATM that accepts deposits. Verify it’s in-network if you want faster processing.

3. Insert your card and authenticate. Slide your debit or ATM card into the machine and enter your PIN. Some banks now offer cardless ATM access via your mobile phone—if your bank supports this, you can log in that way instead.

4. Select the deposit option. Navigate the ATM menu and choose “deposit” or “make a deposit.”

5. Choose your account. If you have multiple accounts, select which one will receive the funds.

6. Insert your cash and checks. Most modern ATMs accept a stack of bills without requiring an envelope. If your machine uses envelopes, complete the necessary fields and place your money inside before inserting the envelope.

7. Confirm the amount. Review the deposit total the machine displays to ensure accuracy.

8. Complete the transaction. Print your receipt, remove your card, and confirm the deposit is finalized. Your receipt serves as your proof of deposit.

9. Wait for funds to appear. At in-network ATMs, deposits typically appear within the same business day or by the next business day.

How Much Can You Actually Deposit?

Dollar Limits: Generally, there’s no universal ceiling on total deposit amounts at ATMs—it depends entirely on your bank. Some institutions impose no limits, while others set specific caps per transaction or per day. Always check with your financial institution.

Physical Limits: You’re more likely to encounter restrictions on the number of individual bills you can deposit. Your bank, the ATM owner, or the machine itself may set these limits. As mentioned, Wells Fargo allows 30 bills and checks per transaction. Other banks may have different thresholds.

To find your specific limits, contact your bank directly or review your account agreement.

Special Rules for Online Banks

Online banks operate differently from traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. Because they lack physical branch networks, they typically offer fewer cash deposit options—including ATM deposits. However, they often compensate by offering higher interest rates and lower fees.

Limited ATM Options: Some online banks don’t support ATM deposits at all. Instead, they encourage bank transfers and mobile check deposits as alternatives for funding your account.

Banks That Do Accept: A few online banks have adapted. Radius Bank allows fee-free deposits at its in-network ATMs. Capital One 360 partners with Allpoint for its ATM network but doesn’t accept cash deposits through Allpoint; however, you can deposit at ATMs in Capital One Cafés or branch locations if available.

Before opening an account with an online bank, confirm whether it supports cash deposits at ATMs and understand any associated processes or fees.

What About Out-of-Network ATM Deposits?

Sometimes you need to deposit money at an ATM outside your bank’s network. This is possible at some institutions, but comes with important caveats:

Slower Processing: Deposits at non-network ATMs take significantly longer. PNC Bank, for example, accepts out-of-network cash deposits but may require up to four business days for the funds to become available.

Potential Fees: The ATM operator may charge a fee for using a non-network machine. Some banks reimburse these fees to customers, while others charge you an additional fee on top of the operator’s charge.

When to Use: Out-of-network deposits should be a last resort. Always try to find an in-network ATM first to avoid delays and fees.

Smart Tips to Protect Your Cash Deposits

Making cash deposits at ATMs requires you to handle physical money in public. Follow these safety practices:

• Know your bank’s policies. Familiarize yourself with which ATMs accept deposits and any associated restrictions or fees before you go.

• Check the machine. Ensure the ATM appears intact and untampered with before using it.

• Choose safe locations. Use ATMs in well-lit, secure areas. Avoid quiet or isolated locations, especially during odd hours.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Look around before and while making your deposit. If something feels unsafe, leave and find another ATM.

• Keep your receipt. Hold onto your deposit receipt as proof of your transaction.

• Monitor your account. After depositing, verify that funds appear in your account as expected.

Essential Information You Should Know

Common Questions About ATM Deposits:

How much can you withdraw daily? Daily withdrawal limits vary by bank but typically range between $300 and $1,000 per day. Additional limits may apply to single transactions. Ask your bank for your specific limits.

Can you deposit at absolutely any ATM? No. Not all ATMs accept deposits, and not all accept out-of-network deposits. Research your options and understand whether fees apply.

How long before deposited money shows up? Timing depends on the ATM type. In-network deposits usually appear the same day or next business day. Out-of-network deposits can take several days. Some no-envelope ATMs may credit deposits immediately. Check your bank’s funds availability policy for specifics.

What if your ATM doesn’t accept deposits? Contact your bank to find the nearest ATM that does, or consider alternative methods like mobile check deposits or in-person deposits at a branch.

Bottom Line

You can deposit money at many ATMs, but not at all of them. Whether you can deposit funds at any particular ATM depends on your bank, the machine’s capabilities, and the ATM network. Before attempting to deposit money at an ATM, verify with your bank which machines accept deposits, understand any deposit limits that apply, and learn about potential fees—especially if you’re using an out-of-network machine. When in doubt, contact your financial institution directly for guidance.