The most common ways to deposit money

You can deposit money at an ATM, through a mobile app, at a bank branch, or by mailing a check. The fastest route depends on what you're depositing and which bank you use. ATMs and mobile apps work around the clock; branches have set hours; mailed checks take several business days to clear.

Most banks let you use their ATMs for free deposits if you have an account with them. Some banks also let you deposit at ATMs owned by partner banks in their network—ask your bank which ones. Mobile deposit (photographing a check through your app) is often the quickest option if your bank offers it, though the funds may take one to two business days to show up in your account.

Key Takeaways

  • ATM deposits are available 24/7 at your bank's machines and usually process within one business day.
  • Mobile deposit through your bank's app lets you photograph a check from home, though funds typically take one to two business days to clear.
  • Branch deposits are processed immediately during business hours, but you are limited to your bank's location and schedule.
  • Mailed checks take five to seven business days to clear and should only be used when other options are not available.
  • Some banks charge fees for deposits at non-partner ATMs or for deposits over a certain amount, so check your account terms.

Depositing at an ATM

Insert your debit card, enter your PIN, and select "Deposit" from the menu. The machine will ask you to insert cash or checks one at a time. Count your items before you start—the ATM will tell you how many it received. Once the machine accepts all your deposits, it will print a receipt showing the amount and the date it will be available in your account.

ATM deposits usually post within one business day, though some banks take up to two. Check your bank's website or app to see when deposits typically clear. If you deposit after the bank's cutoff time (often 9 p.m. or midnight), the deposit may not process until the next business day.

Not all ATMs accept deposits—some only dispense cash. Your bank's ATMs will accept deposits; partner ATMs usually do as well. If you are unsure whether an ATM takes deposits, look for a slot labeled "Deposit" or call your bank's customer service line.

Using mobile deposit through your bank's app

Open your bank's mobile app, find the deposit option (usually labeled "Mobile Deposit" or "Check Deposit"), and follow the prompts. You will photograph the front and back of the check under good lighting. The app will read the check amount and routing number automatically. Enter the amount you want to deposit and confirm.

Mobile deposits typically take one to two business days to clear, though some banks process them faster. The funds may show as "pending" in your account before they fully clear. During that time, the money is not yet available to withdraw, so do not count on it until the status changes to "posted."

Your bank may limit how many checks you can deposit per day or per month, or cap the total amount. These limits vary by bank and account type. Check your app or your account agreement to see what applies to you.

Depositing at a bank branch

Walk in during business hours with your cash or checks and your debit card or account number. Tell the teller you want to make a deposit. Hand over your money or checks, and the teller will count them, enter the amount into the system, and give you a receipt. The deposit posts to your account immediately.

Branch deposits are the fastest way to get money into your account same-day, but you are limited to your bank's hours and locations. If you work during the day or live far from a branch, this option may not be practical. Some banks offer extended hours on certain days or have branches in grocery stores or pharmacies, which may be more convenient.

Mailing a check to your bank

Write your account number on the back of the check, place it in an envelope with a deposit slip (if your bank provides one), and mail it to your bank's address. You can find the mailing address on your bank's website or by calling customer service. Keep a photo or copy of the check for your records.

Mailed deposits take five to seven business days to clear, sometimes longer depending on the mail and your bank's processing schedule. Do not count on the money being available until you see it posted in your account. This method is slow and should only be used when you cannot deposit in person or through your app.

What to know about deposit holds and processing times

Banks can place a hold on deposits, meaning the money shows in your account but is not yet available to withdraw. Holds are most common on large deposits, checks from out-of-state banks, or checks from accounts with a history of bounced checks. The hold typically lasts one to five business days.

Cash deposits usually have no hold and are available immediately. Checks may have a hold depending on the amount and the bank that issued the check. Your bank will tell you when the hold will be lifted—check your receipt or your account statement.

If you need the money before the hold lifts, call your bank and ask whether they can release it early. Some banks will do this for customers with good account history, though it is not may provide.

Fees and limits on deposits

Most banks do not charge a fee for deposits made at their own ATMs or branches. However, some banks charge a fee if you deposit at an ATM owned by a different bank. Partner ATMs (part of your bank's network) are usually free, but non-partner ATMs may cost $1 to $3 per transaction.

Some banks also limit the number of deposits you can make per month or cap the total amount. These limits are less common than they used to be, but they do exist on certain account types. Check your account agreement or call your bank to find out whether limits apply to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit cash at any ATM?

Only at ATMs that have a deposit slot, which most of your bank's ATMs will have. Non-partner ATMs may not accept deposits. Check the machine or call your bank to confirm before you try to deposit.

How long does it take for a deposited check to clear?

Mobile deposits and ATM deposits usually clear within one to two business days. Branch deposits post immediately. Mailed checks take five to seven business days. The exact timeline depends on your bank and the bank that issued the check.

What if the ATM rejects my check?

The ATM may reject a check if it is torn, illegible, already deposited, or missing a signature. Try depositing it at a branch instead, where a teller can inspect it and process it manually. If the check is damaged, contact the person who wrote it and ask for a replacement.

Can I deposit someone else's check into my account?

Yes, but the check must be made out to you or have your name written on the back by the original recipient (called a third-party endorsement). Some banks do not accept third-party checks, so call ahead to confirm. Bring your ID to the branch.

What happens if I deposit a check that bounces?

Your bank will reverse the deposit and deduct the amount from your account. You may also be charged a fee (usually $10 to $35) for the bounced check. If you overdraw your account as a result, additional overdraft fees may apply.