How to Deposit a Check at an ATM

Yes, but only if your bank's ATM has a deposit slot

You can deposit a check into an ATM, but not every ATM accepts them. Your bank's own ATM is most likely to have a check deposit slot — a separate opening where you insert the check, usually below the cash dispenser. ATMs at other banks or in retail stores rarely accept check deposits, even if they take cash withdrawals.

Before you head to the ATM, check your bank's website or call the branch to confirm that the specific machine you plan to use has check deposit capability. Some banks have upgraded all their ATMs; others have them only at certain locations or branch lobbies.

Key Takeaways

Your bank's ATM must have a physical check deposit slot to accept checks — not all ATMs have one.
You need to endorse the back of the check (sign it) and write "For Mobile Deposit Only" or leave it blank, depending on your bank's instructions.
The ATM will scan the check and usually post the deposit within one business day, though some banks take longer.
Keep your receipt from the ATM as proof of deposit until the check clears and appears in your account.
If the ATM rejects your check, the machine will return it immediately — do not assume it was deposited.

What you need to bring and how to prepare the check

Bring your debit card or the account number associated with the ATM card you use. You will also need the check itself. Before you insert it into the ATM, endorse the back by signing your name on the line marked "Endorse here." Some banks ask you to write "For Mobile Deposit Only" or "For ATM Deposit Only" above your signature; others do not require this. Check your bank's website or the instructions on the ATM screen to see what your bank wants.

Make sure the check is not damaged, torn, or marked with pen in a way that obscures the routing number, account number, or amount. The ATM scans both the front and back of the check, so any writing that covers the printed numbers can cause the deposit to fail.

How the ATM deposit process works, step by step

Insert your debit card and enter your PIN. Navigate to the deposit or transfer menu — the exact wording varies by bank, but it is usually labeled "Deposit" or "Make a Deposit." Select "Check Deposit" if the ATM offers multiple deposit types (some also accept cash).

The ATM will ask you which account to deposit into. Select the correct account if you have more than one. Then insert the check into the slot, front side up or back side up depending on what the screen tells you — the ATM will guide you. Do not fold or bend the check. The machine will pull it in, scan it, and display the amount it reads. Verify that the amount is correct. If it is wrong, the ATM will return the check and you can try again or take it to a teller.

Once you confirm the amount, the ATM will print a receipt showing the deposit details. Take this receipt and keep it until the check clears and the money appears in your account online.

How long it takes for the check to clear

Most banks post ATM check deposits within one business day, though some take two to three business days. The time depends on when you deposit it (deposits made after business hours or on weekends may not process until the next business day) and your bank's internal processing speed.

You can usually see the deposit as "pending" in your account within a few hours of depositing it. The money becomes available to spend once the check clears, which typically happens within one to two business days after posting. If the check bounces or is fraudulent, your bank will reverse the deposit and notify you — this can happen days or even weeks later.

What happens if the ATM rejects the check

If the ATM cannot read the check, detects damage, or finds that the routing or account number is unreadable, it will reject the deposit and return the check immediately. The screen will display an error message. Do not assume the check was deposited — it was not. Take the returned check and either try a different ATM, take it to a branch teller, or contact your bank to ask what went wrong.

Common reasons for rejection include a check that is too old (usually more than six months), a check with a post-dated date (a date in the future), a check that is already marked "void," or a check that is damaged or written in pen that obscures the numbers. If you are unsure why the ATM rejected it, a teller can tell you and may be able to deposit it manually.

ATM check deposit versus mobile deposit and teller deposit

ATM deposit is faster than going to a teller during business hours but slower than mobile deposit (photographing the check with your phone). Mobile deposit usually posts within hours and does not require you to visit a location. However, not all banks offer mobile deposit, and some have limits on how much you can deposit per day or per month.

Teller deposit is the most reliable option if the check is damaged, very old, or written in an unusual way. Tellers can also answer questions about why a check might not be accepted. If you are depositing a large check or one that is important to you, a teller deposit gives you immediate confirmation and a receipt signed by the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit a check that is made out to someone else?

No. The check must be made out to you or to you and another person whose name is also on the account. If it is made out to someone else, that person must endorse it to you, and you must then endorse it. ATMs do not accept third-party checks, so you would need to take it to a teller.

What if the ATM reads the check amount wrong?

The ATM will display the amount it scanned before you confirm the deposit. If the amount is incorrect, reject the deposit and the machine will return the check. You can try again, take it to a teller, or use mobile deposit instead. Do not confirm a deposit if the amount shown is wrong.

Can I deposit a check written on a bank account from another country?

Most ATMs will not accept foreign checks. You would need to take it to a teller, who can tell you whether your bank accepts it and what fees or delays apply. International checks often take weeks to clear and may have high processing fees.

Do I need to keep the receipt after the check clears?

You do not need to keep the physical receipt, but it is helpful to take a photo of it or write down the confirmation number in case you need to dispute the deposit later. Once the check clears and appears in your account, you have proof it was deposited.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.