Yes, you can deposit money into a checking account in several ways

You can put money into a checking account through your bank's branch, an ATM, a mobile app, a wire transfer, a direct deposit from your employer, or by mailing a check to the bank. The method you choose depends on how much money you're depositing, how quickly you need it to show up, and what your bank offers. Most deposits show up the same day or within one business day, though some methods take longer.

The account must be open and in your name (or a joint account where you're listed as an owner). If you're depositing cash or a check, you'll need to be a customer of that bank or use an ATM or branch that accepts deposits from non-customers, which is rare. If you're sending money from another bank or person, wire transfers and ACH transfers are the most common routes.

Key Takeaways

  • Cash and check deposits at a bank branch or ATM usually show up the same day or by the next business day.
  • Mobile app deposits (taking a photo of a check) typically clear within one to three business days.
  • Wire transfers and ACH transfers from another bank take one to three business days and require the receiving account number and routing number.
  • Direct deposit from an employer requires you to give your employer your account and routing number, and the money arrives on a set schedule (usually weekly or biweekly).
  • Some banks charge fees for certain deposit methods, so check your account terms before you deposit.

Depositing cash or checks at a bank branch

Walk into any branch of your bank during business hours with your cash or check and your debit card or ID. Tell the teller you want to make a deposit. They will ask which account to deposit into, count the cash or take the check, and give you a receipt. The money is usually available in your account immediately for cash, or by the next business day for checks.

If you're depositing a check, the bank will hold it for a short time to verify the check is real and that the account it's drawn on has enough money. This is called the hold period. Most checks clear within one business day, but some banks hold checks for up to five business days if the check is large, from an unfamiliar bank, or from an account with a history of problems.

Using an ATM to deposit cash or checks

Many banks have ATMs that accept cash and check deposits. Insert your debit card, select "deposit," choose your account, and follow the on-screen instructions. The ATM will count the cash or scan the check and give you a receipt. The money usually shows up in your account within a few hours or by the next business day.

Not all ATMs accept deposits, and not all ATMs accept both cash and checks. Some accept only cash. Check your bank's website or app to find an ATM near you that takes deposits. If you use an ATM that belongs to a different bank, your bank may charge you a fee, and the deposit may take longer to process.

Mobile app deposits (check photos)

Most banks let you photograph the front and back of a check using their mobile app and deposit it without visiting a branch or ATM. Open the app, select "deposit check," take clear photos of both sides of the check, enter the amount, and confirm. The bank will send you a message when the deposit is received and when it clears.

Mobile deposits usually clear within one to three business days. The check must be signed, made out to you, and legible in the photo. Some banks limit how much you can deposit this way per day or per month—often $2,000 to $5,000 per day. After you photograph the check, most banks ask you to write "deposited" on the back and keep it for a set period before destroying it.

Wire transfers and ACH transfers from another bank

If someone is sending you money from a different bank, they can use a wire transfer or an ACH transfer. Both require your account number and your bank's routing number. You can find your routing number on the bottom left of a check, on your bank's website, or by calling the bank.

A wire transfer is faster but usually costs money (often $15 to $30). The money typically arrives the same day or within one business day. An ACH transfer is slower but usually free or costs very little. ACH transfers take one to three business days. Ask the person sending you money which method they prefer and whether they will pay the fee.

Direct deposit from your employer or government payments

Direct deposit is the most reliable way to receive regular paychecks or government payments like Social Security or tax refunds. You give your employer or the government agency your account number and routing number, and the money is deposited automatically on a set schedule. Direct deposit is free and the money usually arrives on the same day or within one business day of the payment date.

To set up direct deposit, ask your employer's payroll department or the government agency for a form. Some employers let you set it up through an employee portal or app. You will need to provide your account number, routing number, and the type of account (checking). Once it's set up, you don't have to do anything—the money arrives on its own.

What to do if a deposit doesn't show up

If you deposited money and it hasn't shown up after the expected time, first check your account online or call the bank to confirm the deposit was received. If it was received but hasn't cleared, wait the full hold period (usually one to three business days). If the hold period has passed and the money still isn't there, contact your bank's customer service.

Bring your receipt or a record of the deposit (a screenshot of the mobile app confirmation, for example). The bank can trace the deposit and tell you where it is. If the deposit was lost or the bank made an error, they will add the money to your account. If you deposited a check and it bounced (the account it was drawn on didn't have enough money), the bank will remove the money from your account and may charge you a fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a check deposit to clear?

Most checks clear within one business day. Large checks, checks from banks outside your bank's network, or checks with issues may take up to five business days. Ask your bank about its specific hold policy when you deposit.

Can I deposit money into someone else's checking account?

No, you cannot deposit money into an account unless you are the account owner or a joint account holder. If you want to send money to someone else, use a wire transfer, ACH transfer, or mobile payment app like Venmo or PayPal.

Is there a limit to how much I can deposit?

Banks do not have legal limits on deposits, but they may report large cash deposits (over $10,000) to the government for tax purposes. Some banks limit mobile app deposits to $2,000 to $5,000 per day. Check your bank's terms for any limits on your account.

Do I have to pay a fee to deposit money?

Depositing at your own bank's branch or ATM is free. Using another bank's ATM may cost a fee. Wire transfers usually cost $15 to $30. ACH transfers are usually free. Mobile app deposits are free. Check your bank's fee schedule for specifics.

What information do I need to give someone to send me money by wire or ACH?

You need to provide your account number and your bank's routing number. You may also need to give your bank's name and address. Do not share your debit card number or PIN. Your account and routing numbers are safe to share for deposits.