Walk into your bank or credit union with your cash and a deposit slip, hand both to a teller, and the money goes into your account within one business day
The simplest way to deposit cash is in person at a branch during business hours. You fill out a deposit slip (a small form with your account number printed on it), list the amount of cash you're depositing, sign it, and give it to a teller along with your cash. The teller counts the money, confirms the amount matches your slip, and processes the deposit. Your account is credited the same day or the next business day, depending on the time you deposit and your bank's processing schedule.
If you don't have a deposit slip, ask a teller for one when you arrive. Most banks keep them at the counter or in the lobby. You can also request deposit slips by mail or download them from your bank's website if you want to fill one out at home before you go.
Key Takeaways
- In-person deposits at a teller window are the most direct method and typically post to your account within one business day.
- You need a deposit slip with your account number, your cash, and a valid ID to complete an in-person deposit.
- ATM cash deposits work at many banks but not all—check whether your bank's ATMs accept cash before you try.
- Mobile deposit does not work for cash; it only works for checks you photograph with your phone.
- Deposits made after business hours or on weekends may not post until the next business day.
What you need to bring to the bank
Bring your cash, a valid photo ID, and either a deposit slip or your debit card. The deposit slip has your account number printed on it, which tells the bank which account to credit. If you don't have a slip, the teller can look up your account using your debit card or by asking for your account number.
You do not need to announce how much cash you're depositing or why. The teller will count the money in front of you to verify the amount, and you'll receive a receipt showing the deposit and your new account balance. Keep that receipt until you see the deposit appear in your online banking or on your statement.
Using an ATM to deposit cash
Many banks have ATMs that accept cash deposits, but not all of them do. Before you try, check your bank's website or call a branch to confirm your bank's ATMs have this feature. If they do, insert your debit card, select "Deposit," choose "Cash," and follow the on-screen prompts. The ATM will ask you to insert your bills one at a time or in a stack, depending on the machine. It counts them automatically and asks you to confirm the total before processing the deposit.
ATM deposits typically post to your account within one business day, though some banks take up to two business days to verify the amount. You'll receive a receipt from the machine. If the ATM rejects a bill or the count doesn't match what you expected, the machine will return your cash immediately.
Timing and when the money shows up
Deposits made during business hours (usually 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays) typically post the same day. Deposits made after hours, on weekends, or on holidays post the next business day. Some banks process deposits in batches, so even a same-day deposit may not show in your account balance until the following morning, though it is credited as of the day you deposited it.
If you need the money urgently, deposit during business hours at a teller window rather than at an ATM. A teller can process your deposit immediately and confirm it in your account before you leave. ATM deposits go into a queue and are verified later, which takes longer.
Why your bank might hold a cash deposit
Banks rarely hold cash deposits, but it can happen if the amount is unusually large, if you're a new customer, or if your account has had fraud or suspicious activity. A hold means the bank credits your account but does not let you withdraw the money for a set period—usually one to five business days—while they verify the deposit.
If your bank places a hold on a cash deposit, they must tell you in writing or by phone. Ask how long the hold will last and when the money will be available. If you believe the hold is unreasonable, you can file a complaint with your bank's customer service department or with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
Depositing cash at a different bank's branch
You can deposit cash only at a branch of your own bank or credit union, not at another bank's branch. If your bank has multiple locations, you can walk into any of them and deposit cash into your account. If you need to deposit cash and don't have access to your bank's branch, you have two options: use a mobile check deposit service if your bank offers it (though this only works for checks, not cash), or wait until you can visit a branch.
Some credit unions belong to shared branching networks, which means you can deposit cash at a different credit union's branch if both are part of the same network. Check your credit union's website to see if this option is available to you.
What happens if you deposit a large amount of cash
Banks are required to report cash deposits of $10,000 or more to the federal government using a form called a Currency Transaction Report (CTR). This is a routine compliance requirement and does not mean you've done anything wrong. The bank files the report automatically; you don't have to do anything.
If you deposit less than $10,000 but the bank suspects you're deliberately breaking up deposits to avoid the reporting requirement, they may file a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR). This is rare and usually only happens if you deposit similar amounts multiple times in a short period without a clear reason. If you have a legitimate reason for regular cash deposits—you run a cash business, for example—tell the teller. Transparency prevents misunderstandings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit cash into someone else's account?
No. You can only deposit cash into an account in your own name. If you want to give money to someone else, deposit it into your account first, then transfer it to theirs using online banking, a wire transfer, or a peer-to-peer payment app. The other person cannot deposit cash into your account on your behalf.
What if the teller counts the cash differently than I did?
The teller's count is the official amount. If there's a discrepancy, the teller will show you the count and ask you to verify it. If you disagree, you can ask to recount together or take your cash back and try again. Once you sign the deposit slip and leave the branch, the deposit amount is final.
Do I need to report cash deposits to the IRS?
The bank reports deposits of $10,000 or more to the federal government, but that report does not go to the IRS automatically. You are responsible for reporting all income to the IRS on your tax return, regardless of the amount or how you received it. If you're self-employed or earn cash income, keep records of your deposits and report them when you file taxes.
Can I deposit cash at a bank I don't have an account with?
No. You must have an account at the bank or credit union where you're depositing cash. If you don't have an account, you'll need to open one first. Some banks allow you to open an account online, while others require you to visit a branch in person.
What if I lose my deposit receipt?
Check your account online or call your bank to confirm the deposit posted. Your bank's records are the official proof of the deposit, not the receipt. If there's a discrepancy between what you deposited and what appears in your account, contact your bank immediately and they can investigate.