The main ways to put cash into your checking account

You can deposit cash at an ATM, at a bank teller window, through a mobile app that accepts cash deposits, or at a third-party location like a grocery store or convenience store that your bank partners with. The fastest route is usually an ATM or teller window at your bank's branch. Mobile app deposits work only for checks, not cash. Third-party locations vary by bank and may charge a fee.

The method you choose depends on when you need the money available, whether your bank charges fees, and what locations are near you. A teller deposit clears the same day. An ATM deposit usually clears within one business day. Third-party deposits may take longer and sometimes cost money.

Key Takeaways

  • ATM deposits and teller deposits are the most direct methods and usually clear within one business day or the same day.
  • Your bank's mobile app cannot accept cash deposits, only checks, so you will need to use an ATM or visit a branch for cash.
  • Third-party locations like grocery stores or pharmacies may accept cash deposits if your bank has a partnership, but fees and clearing times vary.
  • Deposits made after business hours or on weekends may not show in your account until the next business day.

Depositing cash at an ATM

Most ATMs that belong to your bank accept cash deposits. Insert your debit card, enter your PIN, select "Deposit," and follow the on-screen prompts. The machine will ask you to insert bills one at a time or in a stack, depending on the model. Some ATMs count the cash automatically; others require you to enter the amount yourself. The ATM will print a receipt showing the deposit amount.

Cash deposited at an ATM usually appears in your account within one business day. If you deposit after 8 or 9 p.m., or on a weekend or holiday, the deposit may not process until the next business day. Check your bank's website or app for the exact cutoff time at your branch.

ATM deposits are free at your own bank's machines. Using an ATM from a different bank may cost $1 to $3 per transaction, depending on both banks' policies. Some banks waive out-of-network fees for their customers; others do not.

Depositing cash at a bank teller

Walk into any branch of your bank during business hours, take a number or wait in line, and tell the teller you want to deposit cash. Bring your debit card or account number so the teller knows which account to credit. Hand over the cash, and the teller will count it, enter it into the system, and give you a receipt. The deposit is recorded immediately and usually appears in your account the same day.

Teller deposits are always free. This method is useful if you have a large amount of cash, because the teller can verify the count on the spot and answer questions about your account. If your bank is closed when you need to deposit, use an ATM instead.

Depositing cash at third-party locations

Some banks partner with grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores to accept cash deposits at their registers. Ask your bank whether it has these partnerships and which stores near you participate. You will need your debit card or account number. The cashier will take your cash, enter the amount, and give you a receipt. The deposit may take one to three business days to appear in your account.

Third-party deposits are sometimes free, but some banks charge $1 to $2 per transaction. Check your bank's fee schedule before you use this method. These locations are useful if your bank has limited branch hours or if you need to deposit cash while you are already shopping, but the longer clearing time means the money will not be available as quickly as an ATM or teller deposit.

What happens after you deposit cash

Once the cash enters your account, it is yours to use. However, the bank may place a hold on the funds for one to five business days if the deposit is unusually large or if you are a new customer. A hold means the money is in your account but you cannot withdraw it yet. Your bank will notify you if a hold is placed and when it will be lifted.

If you need the cash available immediately, deposit at a teller window during business hours. Teller deposits clear the same day and are less likely to trigger a hold. ATM deposits usually clear by the next business day but may be held longer depending on your bank's policy.

Fees and limits on cash deposits

Most banks do not charge a fee for cash deposits at their own ATMs or teller windows. However, some banks limit the amount of cash you can deposit at an ATM in a single transaction—often $500 to $1,000 per deposit. If you need to deposit more, use a teller or make multiple ATM deposits.

Third-party deposits and out-of-network ATM deposits usually cost money. Your bank may also charge a fee if you deposit cash at a branch that is not your home branch, though many banks waive this fee. Check your account agreement or call your bank to confirm which deposits are free and which cost money.

What to do if your cash deposit does not show up

If you deposited cash and it has not appeared in your account after the expected time, first check your receipt to confirm the amount and the date. Log into your bank's app or website and look at your recent transactions. If the deposit is not listed, contact your bank's customer service line or visit a branch with your receipt.

If you used an ATM, the bank can review the machine's records to see whether the cash was actually received. If you used a teller, the teller's records will show the deposit. If the bank confirms the deposit was received but the money is not in your account, ask whether a hold has been placed. If a hold is in effect, the bank will tell you when it will be lifted. If no hold is in place and the deposit is missing, the bank will investigate further and may credit your account while they look into it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit cash using my bank's mobile app?

No. Mobile banking apps can only accept check deposits through a camera photo. For cash, you must use an ATM, visit a teller, or use a third-party location if your bank offers one. There is no way to deposit physical cash remotely.

How long does it take for a cash deposit to clear?

Teller deposits clear the same day. ATM deposits usually clear within one business day. Third-party deposits may take one to three business days. Deposits made after business hours or on weekends will not process until the next business day.

What if I deposit cash at the wrong bank's ATM?

The deposit will still go into your account, but you will likely be charged a fee of $1 to $3 by one or both banks. Some banks waive out-of-network fees for their customers. Check your account agreement or call your bank to see if you are charged for using other banks' ATMs.

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

ATMs typically limit single deposits to $500 to $1,000. Tellers have no limit. If you need to deposit more than your ATM allows, use a teller window or make multiple ATM deposits on different days. Banks do not report cash deposits to the IRS unless they exceed $10,000 in a single transaction.

Why is my cash deposit on hold?

Banks place holds on deposits to protect against fraud or if the deposit is unusually large for your account. Holds typically last one to five business days. New customers are more likely to have holds placed. You can ask the bank to lift the hold early if you need the money sooner, though they may decline.