Can You Deposit Money at Another Bank’s ATM? (2025 Guide)
Updated November 2025
Wondering if you can deposit cash or checks at an ATM that isn’t your bank? The answer depends on your financial institution, the ATM’s network, and whether the two systems are connected. This guide explains when it’s possible, how those deposits are processed, and safer alternatives when you need to move money fast.
Can You Deposit at Another Bank’s ATM?
In most cases, you cannot deposit money at an ATM owned by a different bank unless your bank participates in a shared network. Large national banks such as Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America only allow deposits at their own branded ATMs.
That’s because ATM deposits require secure data transfer to your financial institution. If the ATM isn’t linked to your bank’s network, it can’t confirm your account number or transmit deposit details. The machine may reject the deposit or simply not offer the option.
However, there are exceptions. Smaller community banks and credit unions often share systems that do allow deposits across institutions—making it possible to deposit funds at another bank’s ATM in select cases.
When Deposits Might Work at Other ATMs
- Shared ATM networks: Credit unions often participate in CO-OP, Alliance One, or STARsf networks that let members make deposits at partner institutions.
- Partner agreements: Some banks partner with convenience stores, gas stations, or other financial groups to accept deposits through co-branded ATMs.
- Cash reload networks: Prepaid and fintech cards (like Cash App or Green Dot) may allow deposits at retailers, but these aren’t true bank ATMs.
For example, Navy Federal Credit Union ATMs allow deposits across their shared network, even when machines are co-located at partner institutions.
If you’re unsure whether a specific ATM will take your deposit, check your bank’s mobile app or online ATM locator for a “Deposit Available” icon before you visit.
Limits and Processing Times
Even if another bank’s ATM accepts your deposit, expect longer hold times and stricter limits. These may include:
- Deposit cut-off times: Deposits made after the network’s daily deadline will process on the next business day.
- Cash vs. checks: Cash clears faster; checks may take up to 2–5 business days depending on the issuing bank.
- Per-day limits: Network ATMs often limit deposits to a few thousand dollars per day—similar to ATM withdrawal limits.
Deposit timing also depends on whether the ATM is envelope-free. For faster posting, learn how envelope-free ATMs work and why they process cash deposits more quickly.
Alternative Ways to Deposit Money
If you can’t deposit at another bank’s ATM—or want your funds available immediately—try these safer alternatives:
- Visit your own bank’s ATM: Instant or same-day credit for cash, with full deposit tracking.
- Deposit in-branch: Teller deposits eliminate machine errors and provide immediate confirmation.
- Mobile check deposit: Snap and submit a check through your bank’s mobile app for near-instant posting.
- Retail reload services: Options like Green Dot® or MoneyPak® allow cash reloads to certain debit or prepaid accounts at stores such as Walmart or CVS.
- Linked accounts: Transfer electronically between checking and savings to move funds quickly without using cash.
If you’re specifically looking for ATMs that accept deposits, explore our dedicated guide on finding ATMs that accept deposits across major U.S. banks and credit unions.
Safety Tips for Out-of-Network ATM Deposits
- Stick to in-network machines: Ensures your deposit routes directly to your bank.
- Avoid off-brand ATMs for cash: Unaffiliated machines may misroute or delay deposits.
- Keep your receipt: It’s proof in case the deposit doesn’t post correctly.
- Check your balance: Confirm the deposit appears in your account within the expected timeframe.
- Use secure, indoor ATMs: Especially for cash deposits or high-value transactions.
FAQs About Depositing at Another Bank’s ATM
Can I deposit money at an Allpoint or MoneyPass ATM?
Generally no. While both networks offer thousands of surcharge-free ATMs, most only support withdrawals. Deposits are available only if your bank explicitly enables them.
What happens if I try to deposit at the wrong ATM?
The transaction will likely fail. If it’s accepted by mistake, the funds may be returned automatically within several business days.
Is mobile deposit safer than using another bank’s ATM?
Yes. Depositing a check through your bank’s app is encrypted, traceable, and much faster than routing through a third-party ATM.
Do deposits count toward ATM limits?
No. Deposits are separate from withdrawal caps, but networks may impose daily deposit caps for security.
Key Takeaways
- Most banks only allow deposits at their own branded ATMs or within shared networks.
- Credit unions are more likely to support cross-institution deposits via shared branching.
- Envelope-free ATMs process deposits faster and more accurately than older models.
- If you need immediate access, use your bank’s own ATM or mobile deposit instead.
- Always verify deposit availability before using an out-of-network machine.
