The main ways to deposit money
You can put money into your checking account in four ways: at an ATM, at a bank branch in person, by mobile app, or by having someone send it directly to your account number. The fastest is usually the ATM or mobile app if your bank has them. The most reliable is going to a branch, because a person can confirm the deposit went through.
Which method works best depends on what you have available and how quickly you need the money in your account. If you have a debit card, you can use an ATM. If you have a smartphone, you can use the mobile app. If you have neither, you can walk into a branch with cash or a check.
Key Takeaways
- ATMs and mobile apps are the fastest ways to deposit money, but you need a debit card or smartphone to use them.
- Depositing at a bank branch takes longer but works even if you do not have a card or app, and a teller can answer questions on the spot.
- Mobile check deposit — taking a photo of a check with your phone — usually takes one to two business days to show up in your account.
- Direct deposit, where an employer or government agency sends money straight to your account, is the most hands-off method and requires only your account number and routing number.
- Cash deposits at an ATM show up in your account when ready, but some banks limit how much cash you can deposit at once.
Depositing cash at an ATM
If your bank has an ATM that accepts cash deposits, this is the fastest way to put money in. Insert your debit card, enter your PIN, select "Deposit", choose "Cash", and follow the prompts. The machine will tell you how much it received. The money shows up in your account right away, though some banks may hold it for a day.
Not all ATMs take cash deposits — some only let you withdraw money. Look for an ATM labeled "deposit-enabled" or call your bank to find one near you. Some banks limit how much cash you can deposit in one transaction, often $5,000 or $10,000, so check your bank's rules if you are depositing a large amount.
Depositing in person at a branch
Walk into any branch of your bank with your cash or check and your debit card or ID. Tell the teller you want to make a deposit. They will ask which account to deposit into, count or scan what you brought, give you a receipt, and the money goes in that day. This is the most straightforward method if you are new to banking, because the teller can answer questions and confirm everything worked.
You do not need an appointment. Branches are usually open weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday mornings, though hours vary. If you do not have a debit card yet, bring a government ID like a driver's license or passport. If you are depositing a check, the back must be signed by the person the check is written to.
Depositing a check by phone or app
Most banks let you photograph a check using their mobile app instead of going to a branch. Open the app, select "Deposit Check", take a photo of the front and back of the check, enter the amount, and submit. The bank will tell you when the money will show up — usually one to two business days.
Before you photograph the check, sign the back of it. Write "For Mobile Deposit Only" above your signature so the check cannot be deposited any other way. Take clear photos in good light so the bank can read the check number, amount, and routing information. If the photo is blurry, the deposit may be rejected and you will have to try again.
Setting up direct deposit from your employer or benefits
Direct deposit means money goes straight from your employer or a government agency into your checking account without you doing anything. You give your employer or the agency your account number and routing number — both printed on the bottom left of your checks, or you can ask your bank for them. The money lands on payday or the scheduled date, usually within one to two business days of when it is sent.
To set up direct deposit, ask your employer's payroll department or your benefits office for a form. Fill in your account number and routing number, sign it, and return it. Once it is set up, you do not have to do anything — the money comes in automatically. If you change banks, you need to update your account information with your employer or benefits office.
What happens after you deposit
Cash deposited at an ATM or a branch shows up in your account the same day. Checks and mobile deposits usually take one to two business days. Direct deposits land on the scheduled date. Your bank may put a hold on the money for a few days, meaning you cannot withdraw it yet even though it shows in your account — this is normal and protects the bank in case the check bounces or the deposit was made by mistake.
You can check your balance anytime using your debit card at an ATM, the mobile app, or by calling your bank's customer service number. Your receipt from a branch deposit or ATM deposit shows the amount and the time. Keep receipts until the deposit shows up on your statement, in case there is a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit cash at any ATM, or only my bank's ATM?
Only your bank's ATM will deposit cash into your account. ATMs from other banks can only withdraw money. If you do not see a deposit option, it is not a deposit-enabled machine. Call your bank to find the nearest one.
What if I deposit a check and it bounces?
If the check is bad, the bank will remove the money from your account and charge you a fee, usually $10 to $30. You will owe the money back. The person who wrote the check is responsible for the bad check, but you may have to contact them to get paid back.
Do I need my debit card to deposit money?
No. You can deposit at a branch with just your ID, or set up direct deposit with only your account and routing numbers. You only need a debit card for ATM deposits.
How long does a mobile check deposit take?
Usually one to two business days. The bank scans your photos and processes the check like a paper check. Weekends and holidays do not count as business days, so a deposit on Friday may not show up until Tuesday.
What is a routing number and where do I find it?
A routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank. It is printed on the bottom left of your checks, before your account number. You can also find it on your bank's website or by calling customer service.