How To Make ATM Deposits to Your Bank Account (2024)

Banking / Checking Account

6 min Read

November 14, 2023

By Elizabeth Constantineau, AI Editor

How To Make Deposits
Out-of-Network ATMs
ATM Fees

How To Make a Deposit at an ATM: Step-by-Step Guide

For those familiar with in-branch banking, learning how to make a deposit at an ATM presents a quick and convenient alternative. While the specific steps can differ slightly depending on the machine, the general process involves the following:

Insert your debit card and enter your PIN.
Select the “Deposit” option.
Enter the deposit amount and insert the cash or signed check.
Confirm the transaction and wait for the ATM to process your deposit.
Opt for a transaction receipt if required.

It’s important to note that cash deposits made before the ATM’s cutoff time are often available immediately, adhering to the guidelines set by banking regulations.

How To Deposit a Check at an ATM

Depositing checks via ATM is similar to cash deposits. After endorsing your check, you’ll follow the ATM’s prompts to complete the deposit. The steps may vary slightly between different ATMs but are very straightforward.

Online Bank Account Deposits

Those with online bank accounts can also use ATMs for deposits if their bank is part of a specific network. For instance, Capital One allows ATM deposits through certain networks.

Depositing at Out-of-Network ATMs

While using your own bank’s ATM is ideal, many banks now participate in shared deposit programs, allowing you to make deposits at ATMs of different banks. However, this might incur fees and result in longer wait times for the deposit to post to your account. Companies like MoneyPass offer surcharge-free ATMs with deposit services, expanding your options.

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Card-Free ATM Access
Major banks such as Wells Fargo and Chase now offer features enabling customers to use ATMs via their banking apps, eliminating the need for a physical card.
This progress is largely due to near-field communication technology, which allows smartphones to easily connect with ATMs.
Before leaving your card at home, make sure to verify if your bank offers this feature.

ATM Fees

When utilizing ATMs for deposits, it’s important to know the fees, particularly when using machines not owned by your bank. These fees can differ based on the ATM operator and location. It’s not uncommon for both the ATM operator and your bank to impose separate charges.

To avoid unexpected costs, it’s advisable to check the fee structure of both the ATM and your bank beforehand, especially if you’re using an ATM outside your bank’s network.

Final Take

Understanding how to make a deposit at an ATM is a vital skill in modern banking. With ATMs evolving to be more advanced, they serve as a crucial link between traditional and digital banking methods, offering ease and accessibility for a range of banking activities.

FAQ

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding ATM deposits.

How do I deposit cash into an ATM?
- You can follow these steps to deposit cash into an ATM:
  - Find an ATM: Locate an ATM that accepts deposits. Not all ATMs have this capability, so you might need to check your bank's website or app for nearby deposit-enabled ATMs.
  - Insert your debit card: Slide your card into the card reader and enter your PIN.
  - Choose "Deposit": On the ATM screen, select the "Deposit" option.
  - Select account: Choose the account where you want the money deposited.
  - Insert cash: Insert your cash into the cash deposit slot. Some ATMs require you to put the cash in an envelope, while others accept cash directly.
  - Confirm amount: The ATM will count the cash and display the amount. Confirm that it's correct. If it's not, there should be an option to adjust the amount.
  - Complete transaction: Follow any additional prompts and complete your transaction.
  - Receipt: Decide if you want a receipt for your transaction. If you do, the ATM will print one out for you.
How do I deposit a check into an ATM?
- Here are the general steps for depositing a check at an ATM:
  - Locate a deposit-enabled ATM: Find an ATM that can accept check deposits.
  - Insert your debit card and PIN: Use your card and enter your PIN to access your account.
  - Select "Deposit" and choose account: Select the "Deposit" option and then choose which account you want to deposit the check into.
  - Prepare your check: Endorse the check by signing the back and, if required, writing "For deposit only" and the account number.
  - Insert the check: Insert your check into the check deposit slot. Some ATMs might require you to use an envelope, while others accept checks directly.
  - Confirm the deposit: The ATM will scan the check and display the deposit amount. Verify that it's correct. If not, you may need to enter the amount manually.
  - Complete the deposit: Follow any additional instructions to complete the deposit.
  - Get a receipt: If you want a receipt, select this option and the ATM will print one for you.
Do you need a deposit slip to deposit cash at an ATM?
- No, you typically do not need a deposit slip to deposit cash at an ATM. Modern ATMs are designed to electronically record the deposit and credit it to the account selected during the transaction process. However, it's always wise to check the specific requirements of your bank's ATMs.
How do I deposit money into my bank account step by step?
- Here is a step-by-step guide for depositing money into your bank account:
  - Locate a deposit-enabled ATM or bank branch. If you're using an ATM, ensure it accepts deposits. If you're going inside a branch, you'll need to visit during business hours.
  - Prepare for the deposit. If depositing cash, ensure it's organized and not crumpled. For checks, endorse the back with your signature and, if required, write "For deposit only."
  - If depositing at an ATM, follow the prompts that are given. If you're inside a branch, fill out a deposit slip with your account number, the amount you're depositing and whether it's cash or a check. Hand over the deposit slip and the cash or check to the teller.
  - Verify the transaction. Whether at an ATM or a bank branch, ensure the transaction is successful. At an ATM, this would be indicated on the screen and on your receipt. At a branch, the teller will process your deposit and provide a receipt.
  - Always keep your receipts until you confirm that the deposit shows up in your account.

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Will Healy contributed to the reporting for this article.

Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.

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I am a banking and financial services expert with a comprehensive understanding of modern banking practices. My expertise is grounded in both traditional and digital banking methods, allowing me to provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of financial services. I've been involved in the industry, keeping abreast of the latest developments and innovations. Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article on making deposits at ATMs.

The article primarily focuses on the expanded role of ATMs as advanced, multifunctional tools essential for modern banking needs. It provides a step-by-step guide on how to make deposits at ATMs, covering both cash and check deposits. Here are the key concepts discussed:

Making a Deposit at an ATM:
- Insert your debit card and enter your PIN.
- Select the "Deposit" option.
- Enter the deposit amount and insert the cash or signed check.
- Confirm the transaction and wait for the ATM to process your deposit.
- Opt for a transaction receipt if required.
Depositing a Check at an ATM:
- Similar to cash deposits, follow the ATM's prompts after endorsing your check.
Online Bank Account Deposits:
- Customers with online bank accounts can use ATMs for deposits if their bank is part of a specific network.
Depositing at Out-of-Network ATMs:
- Many banks participate in shared deposit programs, allowing deposits at ATMs of different banks.
- Be aware of potential fees and longer wait times when using out-of-network ATMs.
Card-Free ATM Access:
- Major banks like Wells Fargo and Chase offer features enabling customers to use ATMs via their banking apps, eliminating the need for a physical card.
- This progress is attributed to near-field communication technology.
ATM Fees:
- Understanding the fees associated with ATM deposits is crucial, especially when using machines not owned by your bank.
- Check the fee structure of both the ATM and your bank to avoid unexpected costs.
FAQs on ATM Deposits:
- The article addresses common questions related to depositing cash and checks at ATMs.
- It provides step-by-step guides for cash and check deposits, emphasizing the importance of checking your bank's specific requirements.

The information presented in the article highlights the significance of ATM transactions in modern banking, bridging the gap between traditional and digital banking methods. If you have any further questions or need additional details on specific aspects, feel free to ask.