If you’ve ever deposited cash or checks at an ATM and wondered why the money isn’t available right away, you’re not alone. Banks use deposit holds to verify funds, manage fraud risks, and comply with regulations. But how long should you expect to wait, and can you speed up the process? This guide breaks down ATM deposit hold times and what affects them.
Why Banks Place Holds on ATM Deposits
- Fraud prevention: Holds give banks time to confirm checks aren’t fake or altered.
- Funds availability rules: U.S. regulations (Reg CC) allow banks to delay access to certain deposits for security.
- Check type: Government checks usually clear faster than personal checks.
- Customer history: New or risky accounts often face longer holds.
Typical ATM Deposit Hold Times
Most banks follow these general timelines for ATM deposits:
- Cash deposits: Often available same-day or next business day if made before cutoff time.
- Local checks: Usually clear within 1–2 business days.
- Non-local or large checks: May take 3–7 business days.
- New accounts (first 30 days): Can face longer delays, sometimes up to 10 days.
Factors That Affect How Long Deposits Take
- Deposit method: Cash clears faster than checks, and mobile deposits may have different rules.
- Bank policies: Some banks (like credit unions or online-only banks) release funds sooner as a customer perk.
- Time of deposit: Deposits after cutoff (often 5–8 PM) may not start processing until the next business day.
- Account type: Premium accounts may enjoy faster availability than basic checking accounts.
How to Speed Up ATM Deposit Availability
- Deposit cash instead of checks: Cash almost always clears faster.
- Use in-network ATMs: Out-of-network machines can add processing delays.
- Deposit early in the day: Beat the cutoff time to avoid overnight delays.
- Maintain a strong account history: Fewer overdrafts and steady balances may earn faster releases.
- Ask for exceptions: If you need funds urgently, some banks will release deposits sooner upon request.
Can You Avoid Long ATM Deposit Holds?
You can’t always skip holds, but you can reduce their impact. Choosing a bank with same-day cash availability and strong customer-friendly policies helps. Some institutions even advertise “instant” or “next-day” deposits to attract customers.
For step-by-step strategies to minimize deposit delays, check out our partner guide on how to avoid ATM deposit holds.
FAQs
Why is my ATM deposit still pending?
Banks hold deposits until they verify funds. Timing depends on check type, amount, and your account status.
Do weekends and holidays delay deposits?
Yes. Deposits usually only process on business days, so weekends and bank holidays extend hold times.
Can my bank release funds sooner?
In some cases, yes — especially if you ask and have a good account history.