Depositing money through an ATM is convenient, but the funds don’t always appear instantly. Banks place short holds on ATM deposits to verify authenticity and reconcile transactions. Depending on the type of deposit, the network used, and the time of day, clearance can take anywhere from a few minutes to several business days. Here’s how it works — and how to make your money available faster.
Typical ATM Deposit Clearing Times
Cash deposits clear faster than checks because they don’t need imaging or verification from another bank. Check deposits, especially at non-network machines, can take longer. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Deposit Type | Average Clearing Time | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Cash (Your Bank’s ATM) | Instant–24 hours | Often available right away or by the next business morning. |
| Cash (Partner/Shared ATM) | 1–3 business days | Extra time needed for inter-network transfer and confirmation. |
| Check (Same-Bank ATM) | 1–2 business days | Large or new-account deposits may face short holds. |
| Check (Different-Bank ATM) | 3–5 business days | Delays come from image transmission and clearing between banks. |
Why Banks Hold Deposits
ATM deposit holds aren’t random. They protect both the customer and the bank by confirming funds are real and properly recorded. The most common reasons include:
- Fraud prevention: Banks verify cash bills and scanned check images before releasing funds.
- Processing schedules: Deposits after daily cutoff times are processed the next business day.
- Account history: New accounts or those with frequent overdrafts often have longer holds.
- Inter-bank routing: Using a third-party ATM adds transfer time through shared networks.
To see how non-network machines affect your funds, visit our guide on depositing at an ATM that isn’t your bank.
How to Make ATM Deposits Clear Faster
- Use your own bank’s ATMs: They verify deposits immediately, reducing risk of delay.
- Deposit before cutoff: Most banks process deposits made before 5–8 PM local time the same day.
- Favor cash when possible: Cash deposits clear almost instantly.
- Use mobile check deposit: It can clear as fast as an in-branch deposit, with built-in photo verification.
- Maintain a good record: Long-term, low-risk customers often receive quicker access to funds.
Cutoff Times at Major U.S. Banks
Each institution sets its own daily cutoff. Deposits made after these hours count for the next business day. Approximate times:
| Bank | Cutoff Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chase | 11 PM ET (cash) / 8 PM ET (checks) | Same-day for cash; next-day for most checks. |
| Bank of America | 8 PM local | Deposits after cutoff post next business day. |
| Wells Fargo | 9 PM local | Electronic checks post overnight. |
| PNC Bank | 10 PM ET | Verified deposits clear overnight. |
| U.S. Bank | 8 PM CT | Most deposits visible by next morning. |
When an ATM Deposit Is Delayed
If your deposit hasn’t appeared after a reasonable time, take these steps:
- Confirm the deposit appears as “pending” in your online or mobile banking history.
- Wait one full business day before escalating—some transactions post overnight batches.
- Contact customer support with the ATM ID, location, and exact amount deposited.
- Keep your printed or digital receipt—it’s proof of the transaction.
- If five business days pass with no update, request an investigation or provisional credit.
Weekends and Holidays
Weekend deposits often show as pending until Monday unless made at 24-hour ATMs owned by your bank. Federal holidays delay all inter-bank processing. To minimize wait time, plan deposits mid-week or early in the business day.
ATM Deposit Safety and Tips
- Use well-lit ATMs located inside branches or major retailers.
- Count your money before inserting it—machines won’t verify missing cash later.
- Double-check your account immediately after deposit confirmation.
- If the ATM malfunctions, call the number displayed on the screen and note the error code.
- Learn more in our article on reporting ATM issues safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ATM deposits clear on weekends?
Some banks credit cash immediately, but most process deposits on the next business day. Check your institution’s weekend posting schedule for details.
Why is my ATM deposit still pending?
Pending deposits usually mean the funds are being verified or the transaction occurred after cutoff hours. It will post once cleared by the bank’s processing system.
Do check deposits take longer than cash?
Yes. Cash deposits often clear within minutes, while checks require 1–5 business days for verification through the clearinghouse.
What if an ATM keeps my deposit and doesn’t print a receipt?
Call your bank’s support number right away, provide the ATM location and deposit amount, and request an investigation. Verified missing deposits are typically reimbursed within 10 business days.
Bottom Line
ATM deposit times depend on the type of funds, the machine used, and when the deposit was made. Cash clears fastest; checks can take several days. To get access sooner, make deposits before cutoff times and use your bank’s own ATMs. For help locating deposit-enabled machines, see our guide on where to find ATMs that accept deposits.
