Can I cash a check at an ATM? A complete guide
Hey, $mart parents 👋
Teach money lessons at home with Greenlight’s $mart Parent newsletter. Money tips, insights, and fun family trivia — delivered every month.
Key findings
- You can deposit checks at most bank ATMs, anytime
- Funds may be available as soon as the next business day
- Mobile deposit is often faster and more convenient
- Non-bank ATMs may charge fees and have lower limits
If you’ve ever received a birthday card with money in it, chances are, it came in the form of a check. In order to access those funds, you’ll have to cash the check—but, can you skip the bank line and cash a check at an ATM instead? Below, you’ll find everything you need to know to do it safely, efficiently, and with ease using modern banking tools.
Can you cash a check at an ATM?
The short answer is yes, you can cash a check at an ATM. Cashing a check at an ATM is a fast and convenient option—no teller line required. Here’s how you can do it.
Choose your ATM
Most banks—like Capital One, PNC, Chase, and Wells Fargo—allow check deposits at their ATMs for account holders 24/7. Non-bank ATMs (such as those at grocery stores) may also accept checks, but often charge fees or have lower deposit limits.
Complete any required endorsement
Endorse the back of your check with "For deposit only,” your account number, and your signature to ensure it reaches the right place.
Insert your debit card and enter your PIN
#1 family finance and safety app
This verifies your account and links the check to it securely.
Choose "deposit check" on the ATM screen
Some machines let you deposit multiple checks at once; others require one at a time.
Insert the check
Many modern ATMs scan the check without an envelope. The machine will confirm deposit details, so verify the amounts and information before approving.
Collect your receipt
Keep this until funds are available or unless your bank lets you view ATM deposits in the app right away.
How long until funds are available?
Funds aren’t usually available immediately when you cash a check at an ATM. Here’s how long you’ll have to wait for the cash to hit your account.
Standard hold timelines
Local personal/business checks: Often available next business day after 1 p.m.
Non-local or government checks: May take 2+ business days.
Large deposit holds: Institutions may split deposits, with part available immediately and the rest delayed.
Why do holds apply?
Banks need time to verify checks and prevent fraud. Federally regulated "next-business-day" availability is common, but policies can differ between financial institutions.
Fees and deposit limits
Institution type | Fees | Deposit limits |
Your bank’s ATMs | Free | Varies by account level |
Non‑bank ATMs | $3–$7 per check typical | Limits set by the ATM operator |
After-hours/weekend | No extra fee, but longer to post | Business-day processing |
Tip: Check your bank’s fee/disclosures page before using non‑partner ATMs. Always compare to avoid surprise fees.
Why mobile deposit might be faster
Most banks offer check deposit via mobile app. Mobile deposits usually post funds faster—often within 1 business day—and eliminate travel time to an ATM. If you already use your bank’s app, mobile deposit can be an easier path.
Troubleshooting common issues
Cashing a check at an ATM isn’t always foolproof—you might encounter these common problems, but there are easy ways to try and fix them.
ATM won’t accept check → Gently smooth or flatten folded checks.
ATM camera can’t read check → Clean the scanner window; reinsert.
Error after deposit → Call customer support; keep your receipt.
Receipt lost? → Review transaction history in your app or online.
ATM vs teller vs mobile: quick comparison
Method | Convenience | Funds availability | Fees | Ideal for |
ATM deposit | High (24/7) | Next-day standard | Usually free | Quick in-person use |
Teller in-person | Lower | Same‑day (often by close) | May be free | Complex transactions |
Mobile deposit | Highest | Fastest (often next day) | Free | Remote/efficient |
Pro tips for smooth deposits
Ensure your check deposit goes smoothly by following these easy tips.
Use ink endorsements. Pencil or lighter inks may not scan cleanly at ATMs
Deposit early. Before 2 p.m. local time for faster processing
Avoid weekends/holidays. These count as non-business days
Be familiar with bank limits. Larger or frequent deposits may trigger holds
FAQs
Can I get cash right away from an ATM with a check?
No, ATM deposits credit your account. Withdrawals depend on funds availability. For immediate cash, use in‑bank teller lanes.
Can non-bank users cash checks at someone else's ATM?
Usually not. Most machines limit check deposits to account holders only.
What's the cutoff time for same‑day processing?
Banks often consider deposits before approx. 2 p.m. local time as same-day. Confirm with your bank’s policy.
Empower kids to earn and learn. Manage chores, jobs, and allowances. Teach kids to earn, save, and invest with the Greenlight app. Try Greenlight, one month, risk-free.†
This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.
Share via
