Ally Bank does not have physical branches, so you cannot walk in and deposit cash at a teller window

Ally is an online-only bank with no brick-and-mortar locations. This means there is no branch where you can hand over cash to a teller. If you need to deposit cash, you have three main routes: use an ATM that Ally partners with, transfer money from another bank account you control, or deposit a check instead.

The fastest option depends on how much cash you have and how quickly you need it in your Ally account. ATM deposits work within hours. Transfers from another bank take one to three business days. Check deposits take similar time but require you to have a physical check to deposit.

Key Takeaways

  • Ally has no physical branches, so you cannot deposit cash directly with the bank.
  • You can deposit cash at an ATM that Ally partners with, and the money typically posts within a few hours.
  • Ally's ATM network includes MoneyPass and Allpoint machines at retailers, gas stations, and other locations nationwide.
  • If you do not have access to a partner ATM, you can withdraw cash from your Ally account and deposit it into another bank account you own, then transfer the funds back to Ally.
  • Check deposits through Ally's mobile app take one to three business days to clear.

Depositing cash at a partner ATM

Ally partners with two ATM networks: MoneyPass and Allpoint. Both networks have machines at thousands of locations including grocery stores, pharmacies, convenience stores, and gas stations. You can find a nearby ATM by visiting the Ally website or using the Ally mobile app—both have ATM locators that show you which machines accept deposits.

When you arrive at a partner ATM, insert your Ally debit card, enter your PIN, and select the deposit option. The machine will guide you through the process. You can deposit bills and coins. The ATM will count the cash and confirm the amount before the transaction completes. The money typically appears in your Ally account within a few hours, though it may take up to one business day depending on when you deposit.

There is no fee for depositing cash at a MoneyPass or Allpoint ATM if you use your Ally debit card. Some ATMs may charge a fee if you use a card from a different bank, but that does not apply to Ally customers.

Finding a MoneyPass or Allpoint ATM near you

The Ally mobile app has a built-in ATM locator. Open the app, tap the menu, and select "Find an ATM." The app will show you the nearest machines that accept cash deposits, along with their addresses and hours. You can also visit the MoneyPass website or Allpoint website directly and search by zip code or city.

MoneyPass machines are common at Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and many independent retailers. Allpoint machines are often at convenience stores, grocery stores, and gas stations. Both networks have tens of thousands of machines across the United States, so you should be able to find one within a short distance.

Transferring cash from another bank account you own

If you cannot access a partner ATM, you can deposit cash into another bank account you own—such as a checking account at a local bank or credit union—and then transfer that money to your Ally account. This method takes longer but works if you have access to a physical branch or ATM at another bank.

First, deposit the cash into your other account at a branch, ATM, or through a teller. Once the cash is in that account, log into your Ally account and set up an external transfer from the other bank to Ally. You will need the routing number and account number of the other bank. The transfer typically takes one to three business days. Ally does not charge a fee for incoming transfers, though your other bank may charge a fee for outgoing transfers.

Depositing checks instead of cash

If someone gives you a check instead of cash, or if you can convert your cash to a check, Ally accepts check deposits through its mobile app. Open the Ally app, select "Deposit a Check," take photos of the front and back of the check, and submit. The check will be processed and the funds will appear in your account within one to three business days.

This method works well if you receive checks regularly, but it does not help if you specifically need to deposit physical cash. You would need to cash the check at another bank first, then deposit that cash at an Ally partner ATM or transfer it through another account.

What to do if you cannot find a partner ATM

If you live in an area with no nearby MoneyPass or Allpoint machines, your best option is to transfer money from another bank account. Open a free checking account at a local bank or credit union if you do not already have one, deposit your cash there, and then transfer the funds to Ally. This takes a few extra days but guarantees you can get your cash into your Ally account.

Another option is to ask a trusted friend or family member who banks with Ally to deposit cash at a partner ATM on your behalf. They would need to use their own Ally debit card and account, so this only works if you can transfer the cash to them first or reimburse them afterward.

Timing and when the money shows up

Cash deposited at a MoneyPass or Allpoint ATM usually appears in your Ally account within a few hours, though Ally states it may take up to one business day. Deposits made after business hours or on weekends may not process until the next business day. If you deposit on a Friday evening, for example, the money might not show up until Monday.

Transfers from another bank account take one to three business days. Check deposits take one to three business days as well. If you need cash in your Ally account urgently, an ATM deposit is your fastest option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit cash at a regular ATM that is not part of Ally's network?

No. Only MoneyPass and Allpoint ATMs accept cash deposits from Ally customers. If you use an ATM from a different network, you will not be able to deposit cash. You can withdraw cash from any ATM, but deposits only work at partner machines.

Is there a limit to how much cash I can deposit at an ATM?

Most ATMs have a per-transaction limit, typically between $500 and $1,000. If you need to deposit more than that, you can make multiple deposits or use the transfer method through another bank account. Contact Ally directly if you have questions about deposit limits on a specific machine.

What happens if the ATM rejects my cash?

ATMs reject cash if the bills are damaged, torn, or too worn. If this happens, the machine will return your cash and you can try again with different bills. If the ATM malfunctions and keeps your cash, contact Ally customer service with the ATM location and time of the deposit, and they will investigate.

Can I deposit cash using someone else's Ally debit card?

No. You must use your own Ally debit card and PIN to deposit cash at an ATM. Using someone else's card is not permitted and could be considered fraud. If you need to deposit cash on behalf of someone else, they should do it themselves or you should transfer the cash to them first.

Do I need to tell Ally before I deposit cash?

No. You do not need to notify Ally in advance. Simply find a partner ATM, insert your card, and complete the deposit. The transaction will be recorded in your account automatically.