Yes, but the method and fees depend on which bank and what you're depositing

You can deposit cash or checks at a bank where you don't hold an account, but not all banks allow it, and those that do often charge a fee. The most common option is a third-party deposit — handing cash or a check to a teller at any branch of your bank, even if it's not your home branch. Some banks also accept deposits through ATMs, mobile apps, or partner networks, though these routes have their own limits and restrictions.

The key difference is between depositing into your own account at a different location versus depositing into someone else's account. The first is usually free or low-cost. The second — depositing money into another person's bank account at their bank — is where fees and restrictions kick in, and some banks refuse to do it at all.

Key Takeaways

  • You can deposit cash or checks into your own account at any branch of your bank, even if it's not the branch where you opened the account, usually for free.
  • Depositing money into someone else's account at their bank may cost $5 to $15 per transaction and some banks do not allow it.
  • Mobile deposit (photographing a check through your bank's app) works only for checks going into your own account, not someone else's.
  • ATM deposits at your own bank's machines are free, but ATMs at other banks usually charge a fee and may not accept deposits at all.
  • If you need to move money to someone else's account regularly, a transfer between banks (ACH or wire) is usually cheaper and faster than a cash deposit.

Depositing into your own account at a different branch

If you have an account at Bank A and you walk into a different Bank A branch with cash or a check, you can deposit it into your account for free. This is the simplest scenario and works at any branch of your bank nationwide. You'll need your debit card or account number and a valid ID.

The same applies to ATM deposits: if you use your bank's ATM (even at a different branch), depositing cash or checks into your own account is free. The ATM reads your card, confirms the account, and processes the deposit. Most banks post these deposits within one business day.

If you're depositing a check and your bank offers mobile deposit, you can photograph the front and back of the check through the bank's app and submit it from anywhere — no branch visit needed. This also goes into your own account and is free. Mobile deposit typically posts within one to two business days.

Depositing into someone else's account at their bank

This is where restrictions appear. If you want to deposit cash or a check into another person's account at their bank, you'll need to ask the teller directly — some banks allow it, others don't, and policies vary by branch and by account type.

Banks that do allow third-party deposits usually charge a fee of $5 to $15 per transaction. You'll need the account holder's name, account number, and routing number. The account holder may also need to be present or provide written authorization, depending on the bank's policy. Some banks limit how many third-party deposits an account can receive per month.

A few large banks (including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase) have tightened or eliminated third-party deposit policies in recent years due to fraud concerns. Before you attempt a deposit, call the bank's customer service line or visit a branch to confirm whether they accept third-party cash or check deposits.

Using ATMs at other banks

ATMs at banks where you don't have an account may accept deposits, but they usually charge a surcharge of $1 to $3 per transaction. Some ATMs don't accept deposits at all — they dispense cash only. If you use an out-of-network ATM, your own bank may also charge you a fee on top of the ATM operator's fee, so the total cost can reach $4 to $5 per deposit.

To avoid these fees, use only ATMs owned by your bank or by banks in your bank's surcharge-free network. Most large banks belong to networks like Allpoint, MoneyPass, or CO-OP that let you use thousands of ATMs nationwide without paying extra. Check your bank's website or app to find participating ATMs near you.

Moving money between accounts at different banks

If you need to deposit money into someone else's account regularly, or if you're moving money between your own accounts at different banks, an ACH transfer (Automated Clearing House) is usually cheaper and faster than a cash deposit. ACH transfers are free or cost $1 to $3, post within one to three business days, and don't require you to visit a branch or ATM.

To set up an ACH transfer, you'll need the recipient's bank name, routing number, and account number. You can initiate the transfer through your bank's website or app, or by calling customer service. Some banks also allow wire transfers, which are faster (same-day or next-day) but cost $15 to $30 and are better for large amounts or urgent transfers.

If you're depositing a check that belongs to someone else, they can also set up mobile deposit through their own bank's app — they photograph the check and it goes directly into their account. This avoids the need for you to handle the deposit at all.

What to do if the bank won't accept your deposit

If the bank refuses a third-party deposit or you don't want to pay the fee, you have a few options. The account holder can visit their own bank and deposit the money themselves. You can mail a check to them (takes 3 to 7 business days). You can set up an ACH transfer if both of you have bank accounts. Or you can use a money transfer service like Venmo, PayPal, or Western Union, though these charge fees and may have daily limits.

If the money is a paycheck or government benefit, the account holder should set up direct deposit instead. This sends the funds automatically to their account each pay period at no cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit a check at a bank that's not mine?

Yes, you can deposit a check into your own account at any branch of your bank for free. If you want to deposit a check into someone else's account at their bank, some banks allow it for a fee of $5 to $15, but others refuse. Call the bank first to confirm their policy.

Will my bank charge me if I use another bank's ATM to deposit?

Yes, usually. The ATM operator charges $1 to $3, and your own bank may add another $1 to $3 on top of that. To avoid fees, use ATMs in your bank's network or a surcharge-free network like Allpoint or MoneyPass.

What's the cheapest way to send money to someone else's account?

An ACH transfer through your bank is usually free or costs $1 to $3 and takes one to three business days. A wire transfer is faster (same-day) but costs $15 to $30. Avoid third-party deposits at the recipient's bank unless it's a one-time deposit, because the fees add up quickly.

Can I deposit cash at an ATM if I don't have an account there?

Some ATMs accept cash deposits from non-customers, but they charge a fee and may not credit your account when ready. It's better to use your own bank's ATM or visit a branch. If you're depositing into someone else's account, ask their bank directly whether they accept third-party ATM deposits.

What if I need to deposit money but the bank is closed?

Use your bank's ATM if it accepts deposits, or use mobile deposit if you're depositing a check into your own account. Both work 24/7. If you need to deposit into someone else's account and their bank's ATM won't accept it, you'll have to wait until the branch opens or use an ACH transfer instead.