The basic ways to deposit cash
You can put cash into your bank account in three main ways: at an ATM (the machine outside the bank), at a teller inside the bank branch, or through a mobile app if your bank offers mobile deposit. The easiest method depends on when you need to deposit it and which bank you use.
Most banks let you deposit cash at their ATMs during any hour the machine is available — often 24 hours a day. Teller deposits happen during branch hours, usually weekday mornings through early evening and sometimes Saturday mornings. Mobile deposit, where you photograph checks with your phone, does not work for cash, so that option is only for checks.
Key Takeaways
- ATM cash deposits are available any time the machine is working, but some banks charge a small fee if you use an ATM that is not theirs.
- Teller deposits at your bank branch are free and let you ask questions, but they only happen during business hours.
- Cash deposited at an ATM or teller usually shows up in your account within one business day, though some banks take longer.
- If your bank does not have a branch or ATM near you, you can use a partner bank's ATM or deposit cash at a check-cashing store and transfer the money later.
- Always keep your receipt from the ATM or teller so you can check that the amount was recorded correctly.
Depositing cash at an ATM
Find an ATM that belongs to your bank or a partner bank. Insert your debit card and enter your PIN (the four-digit code you chose when you opened the account). Select "Deposit" from the menu, then choose "Cash." The machine will tell you how much cash to insert — usually it takes bills one at a time, and it counts them automatically.
After you insert the cash, the ATM will show you the amount it counted. Check that number carefully. If it is wrong, press the button to cancel and the machine will return your cash. Once you confirm the amount, the money goes into your account. The ATM will print a receipt showing the deposit amount, date, and time. Keep this receipt until you see the deposit show up on your phone or online banking.
One thing to know: if you use an ATM that does not belong to your bank, your bank may charge you a fee of $1 to $3 per deposit. Some banks also charge a fee even for their own ATMs if you are not a customer. Ask your bank which ATMs are free for you to use.
Depositing cash with a teller at the bank branch
Go to your bank branch during business hours with your cash and your debit card or account number. Tell the teller you want to deposit cash. Hand them the cash and they will count it in front of you, then ask you to confirm the amount. They will enter it into the computer and give you a receipt.
This method is useful if you have a large amount of cash, because the teller can count it more carefully than an ATM and answer questions about your account. It is also free — your bank does not charge you to deposit cash with a teller. The downside is that you can only do it during branch hours, which are usually Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some branches open Saturday mornings.
When the cash shows up in your account
Cash deposited at an ATM or teller usually appears in your account within one business day. A business day is any day the bank is open — Monday through Friday, not counting holidays. So if you deposit cash on a Friday evening, it may not show up until Monday. If you deposit on a holiday, it counts as the next business day.
Some banks are slower and take two or three business days. Check your bank's website or call customer service to ask how long cash deposits take at your bank. This matters if you need the money right away — you cannot spend it until it shows up.
What to do if your bank has no ATM or branch near you
If you do not live close to your bank's branch or ATM, you have a few options. First, check whether your bank is part of a network of partner banks. Many banks let their customers use ATMs at other banks in the network for free. Your bank's website will list which ATMs you can use.
Second, you can deposit cash at a check-cashing store or money transfer service like MoneyGram or Western Union. These businesses charge a fee — usually $2 to $5 — to take your cash and send it to your bank account. It is more expensive than using your own bank, but it works if you have no other option.
Third, some online banks that have no physical branches partner with retail stores like Walmart or CVS. You can walk into the store, give the cashier your cash, and they will deposit it into your account. Ask your bank whether this service is available.
Keeping track of your deposits
Always take the receipt from the ATM or teller and keep it for at least one month. The receipt shows the date, time, and amount you deposited. Check your online banking or mobile app a day or two after the deposit to make sure the money arrived and the amount is correct.
If the amount on your receipt does not match what shows up in your account, contact your bank right away. Most banks have a phone number on the back of your debit card. Tell them the date and amount of the deposit and the receipt number. They will investigate and fix it if there was an error.
Deposits that might be held or delayed
In rare cases, a bank will hold a cash deposit for a few days before releasing it. This usually happens if you deposit an unusually large amount of cash — the bank may need to verify where the money came from. If your bank holds your deposit, they will tell you when it will be released.
If you are depositing cash on behalf of someone else, bring a note from that person saying they gave you the cash to deposit. Some banks ask for this to prevent fraud. It does not have to be formal — a text message or email from them saying "I gave Marcus $500 to deposit" is usually enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit cash at a bank that is not mine?
No, you cannot deposit cash at another bank's teller. You can only deposit at your own bank's branch or ATM, or at a partner bank's ATM if your bank has a partnership agreement. If you need to deposit at a different bank, use a check-cashing service instead.
What is the maximum amount of cash I can deposit?
There is no legal limit on how much cash you can deposit. However, banks must report cash deposits over $10,000 to the government — this is normal and legal, not a sign of trouble. If you are depositing a large amount, a teller can help you do it safely.
Do I need my debit card to deposit cash at an ATM?
Yes, you need your debit card and PIN to use most ATMs. Some banks offer cardless ATM deposits through their mobile app, but this is not common yet. Check with your bank to see if this option is available.
What happens if the ATM eats my cash?
If an ATM takes your cash but does not show a deposit on your receipt, contact your bank when ready with the receipt and the date and time. The bank will investigate the ATM's records. If the machine did take your money, the bank will refund it, though this can take a few days.
Can I deposit cash if I do not have a debit card yet?
Yes. Go to your bank branch with your cash and your account number or ID. A teller can deposit it for you without a debit card. You will need a debit card to use ATMs, but the teller can help you order one at the same time.