If someone writes you a check, or you wish to pay in your wages, you may be wondering how to deposit a check. It’s possible to cash checks, of course, but many people prefer to make a deposit and pay them into a bank account.
There are various ways to do this, including visiting your bank or credit union branch, making an ATM check deposit or even depositing your check electronically if you have a smartphone and the relevant mobile banking app. In this guide, we’ll focus on depositing at an ATM.
How To Deposit a Check at an ATM
Many banks and credit unions offer their customers the opportunity to deposit personal checks at ATMs. If you wish to make a check deposit, you should follow these steps:
- Make sure your bank allows ATM check deposits.
- Visit the branch or find an ATM that offers the relevant service.
- Endorse (sign) the back of the check or checks you wish to pay in.
- Insert your card and follow the instructions on the screen.
- Deposit the check when prompted to do so.
- Remove your card and take the receipt.
When you visit an ATM, it’s always beneficial to ensure that you have your bank-issued card with you.
Can I Deposit a Check at an ATM of a Different Bank?
In some cases, it will be possible to deposit a check at an ATM of a different bank. If you bank with TD Bank, for example, you can use any ATM that is part of the NYCE Shared Deposit scheme. Note, however, that not all banks will let you do this, and the check may take longer to clear.
How Long Does It Take To Deposit a Check at an ATM?
One of the main benefits of depositing a check at an ATM is the speed of the process. If you go to an ATM, the whole process we’ve described above will take just a couple of minutes.
After you deposit the check, your bank will hold funds during the clearing process. The time it takes to clear deposits varies among banks. Some banks, such as US Bank, PNC Bank, and TD Bank, offer same-day service, with a portion of the check available to withdraw on the same business day.
Most, however, provide a next-day service, which usually enables the customer to draw up to $200 of the deposit.
If you are wondering when your check will clear, check the cut-off times for your bank. Some banks have an earlier daily cut-off than others. Chase, for example, has a deadline of 11 p.m. ET, while TD Bank has a cut-off of 8 p.m.
Types of Checks You Can Deposit at an ATM
In this section, we’ll discuss the possibility of depositing three common check types.
Can You Deposit a Personal Check at an ATM?
Most customers are looking to deposit personal checks when they want to pay money into their accounts. Banks usually provide this service through a network of local ATMs and branch offices.
Can You Deposit a Third-Party Check at an ATM?
If you have a third-party check, the process is more complex, as you’ll need to ensure that the third party has endorsed the check. If the third party has signed the check and agreed to “pay to the order of your name,” you should be able to deposit a check at the bank, but you may not be able to use an ATM. An ATM may accept the check, but the bank might want more information before clearing the funds to prevent fraud.
Can You Deposit a Cashier’s Check at an ATM?
Cashier’s checks are drawn from the bank’s own account. If you have a cashier’s check, you can deposit it at an ATM, provided that you have your debit card with you.
Security Concerns
In the vast majority of cases, it’s completely safe to deposit a check at an ATM. There is a chance of errors and delays, and some people might feel more comfortable going into the bank and leaving their check with a cashier.
However, if you follow the instructions carefully and use an ATM in a safe location, you should feel confident using ATMs to deposit your checks.
If you have any queries, don’t hesitate to contact your bank. It’s much safer to deposit checks than to carry large amounts of cash around with you.
Cashing a Check at an ATM
Some ATMs offer the option to cash a check, but the process may be slightly more complex than going to the bank to cash your check. If your bank offers this service, take your check to the ATM, insert your card, make sure you have endorsed the check and follow the instructions on the screen.
You may need to have the value of the check in your account already to make a withdrawal instantly or use your money for a transaction.
Further Reading
- Our Guide on Switching Bank Accounts
- Current Balance and Statement Balance Explained
- Top Checking Account Options Reviewed
- Certified Checks Explained
- How to Fill Out a Money Order
The Bottom Line
Depositing a check at an ATM is convenient and hassle-free, but it’s important to make sure that you use an ATM that offers this service and ensure that you are ready to make the deposit, and that means you have your bank-issued card with you and the endorsed check. The time it takes for funds to clear will depend on your bank.
