The main ways to add money to your account
You can put money into a bank account in four main ways: deposit cash at a branch or ATM, transfer money from another account, have money sent directly to your account, or deposit a check. The method you choose depends on where the money is coming from and how quickly you need it in your account.
Each method works differently and takes a different amount of time. Some are when ready. Others take a few business days. Knowing which option fits your situation saves you from delays and confusion.
Key Takeaways
- Cash deposits at a bank branch are when ready, but ATM deposits may take one to two business days to show in your account.
- Transfers from another account at the same bank are usually when ready, while transfers between different banks take one to three business days.
- Direct deposit — when an employer or government agency sends money straight to your account — is the fastest and most reliable way to receive regular payments.
- Check deposits can be done at a branch, ATM, or through a mobile app, but the bank holds the funds for a set number of days before you can withdraw them.
Depositing cash at a branch or ATM
Walking into your bank and handing cash to a teller is the most straightforward way to add money. The deposit is recorded when ready, and the money is available in your account right away. You will need your debit card or account number, and the teller will count the cash, give you a receipt, and confirm the amount in your account.
ATM deposits work differently. You insert cash into the machine, and it counts the bills and asks you to confirm the amount. The machine then deposits the money into your account. However, ATM deposits are not when ready like teller deposits. The bank processes them overnight or the next business day, so the money may not show in your account until the following day. Some banks hold ATM deposits for one to two business days before you can withdraw the funds, even though the deposit shows in your account balance.
If you are depositing a large amount of cash — usually more than $10,000 — the bank will file a report with the federal government. This is a normal process and does not mean anything is wrong. The bank is required to do this by law.
Transferring money from another account
If you have money in another bank account, you can move it to your new account through a transfer. The speed depends on whether both accounts are at the same bank or at different banks.
Transfers between accounts at the same bank are when ready or take just a few hours. You can set this up online, through the bank's mobile app, or by calling the bank. You will need the account number of the account you are transferring from and the account number of the account you are transferring to.
Transfers between different banks take longer. These are called ACH transfers (Automated Clearing House), and they typically take one to three business days. You start the transfer from your new bank's website or app by entering the other bank's name and your account number there. The sending bank then contacts the receiving bank to move the money. Business days do not include weekends or federal holidays, so a transfer you start on Friday may not arrive until Tuesday.
Setting up direct deposit from your employer or benefits
Direct deposit is when money is sent automatically from an employer, government agency, or other source straight into your bank account on a regular schedule. This is the fastest and most reliable way to receive paychecks, tax refunds, or benefits like Social Security.
To set up direct deposit, you need to provide your bank account information to the organization sending the money. Your employer's payroll department, your state benefits office, or the Social Security Administration will ask for your bank's routing number and your account number. You can find both of these on the bottom left of a check, or by logging into your online banking and looking at your account details.
Once direct deposit is set up, the money arrives on the same day every pay period — usually the same day it leaves the employer's account. There is no waiting, no fees, and no chance of a lost check. If you change banks, you will need to update your direct deposit information with each organization that sends you money.
Depositing checks
If someone gives you a check, you have three ways to deposit it: at a bank branch, at an ATM, or through your mobile app.
At a branch, you hand the check to a teller along with your debit card or account number. The teller will record it and give you a receipt. At an ATM, you insert the check into the machine, confirm the amount, and the machine deposits it. Through a mobile app, you take a photo of the front and back of the check, enter the amount, and submit it. All three methods work, and the choice is up to you.
Checks are not available when ready. The bank places a hold on the funds while it contacts the bank that issued the check to confirm the money is there. This usually takes three to five business days, though some banks hold checks longer. During the hold period, the check amount shows in your account balance, but you cannot withdraw it. Once the hold is released, the money is yours to use. The bank will send you a notice when the hold is lifted, or you can check your account online.
Understanding holds and when money becomes available
A hold is a temporary freeze on deposited funds while the bank verifies the deposit. Holds exist to protect the bank from fraud — if a check bounces or a transfer is reversed, the bank does not want to have already given you the money.
Different types of deposits have different hold times. Cash deposits at a teller are available when ready. ATM cash deposits usually become available the next business day. Checks typically have a three- to five-business-day hold. ACH transfers from other banks take one to three business days. Direct deposits have no hold — the money is available the same day it arrives.
If you need the money before the hold is released, talk to a banker. Some banks will release holds early if you have a good account history, though they are not required to. Never count on money being available before the hold ends.
Avoiding common mistakes when depositing
Make sure the check is signed by the person or business that issued it. An unsigned check cannot be deposited. Also check that the amount written in words matches the amount written in numbers — if they do not match, the bank may reject the check.
When you deposit a check through an app, take clear photos of both the front and back. If the images are blurry or cut off, the bank may reject the deposit and ask you to try again. After you submit a mobile deposit, do not spend the check or deposit it anywhere else — depositing the same check twice is fraud, even if you did not mean to.
If you are transferring money between banks, double-check the account number you enter. A wrong digit sends the money to someone else's account, and getting it back takes time and effort. Most banks let you verify the account holder's name before you confirm the transfer — use this feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for money to show up after I deposit it?
Cash deposited with a teller shows up when ready. Cash deposited at an ATM, checks, and transfers between different banks take one to five business days. Direct deposit and transfers between accounts at the same bank are usually when ready or take a few hours. The exact time depends on your bank and when you deposit.
Can I withdraw money before a hold is released?
No. Until the hold is released, the money is not available to withdraw, even though it shows in your account balance. Some banks will release holds early if you ask and have a good history with them, but they are not required to. Plan your deposits with the hold time in mind.
What if I deposit a check and it bounces?
If the check bounces, the bank removes the money from your account and charges you a fee, usually $10 to $35. The person who wrote the check is responsible for paying you back. If they do not, you may need to take them to small claims court or report them to the police.
Do I need to go to my bank's branch to deposit money?
No. You can deposit cash at any ATM owned by your bank, deposit checks through your mobile app, or set up direct deposit without visiting a branch. The only time you must go to a branch is if you want to deposit cash with a teller, which gives you an when ready receipt and when ready availability.
What is a routing number and where do I find it?
A routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank. You need it to set up direct deposit or to transfer money from another bank. You can find it on the bottom left of any check you have, or by logging into your online banking and looking at your account details. Your bank's customer service line can also tell you your routing number.