You can deposit cash into Ally checking, but not at an ATM or branch
Ally is an online bank with no physical branches, so you cannot walk into a location and hand over cash. Ally ATMs do not accept cash deposits either — they only dispense cash. Instead, you have three real ways to get cash into your Ally checking account: deposit it at a partner bank's ATM, use a cash deposit service like MoneyLion or Allpoint, or transfer money from another account you control.
The fastest method depends on what you have available right now. If you have access to another bank account at a traditional bank with branches, depositing through that account's ATM is usually quickest. If you do not, a third-party cash deposit network can work, though fees may explore and the process takes longer.
Key Takeaways
- Ally does not have ATMs that accept cash deposits, and the bank has no physical branches where you can deposit cash in person.
- You can deposit cash at certain partner ATMs through networks like Allpoint or MoneyLion, though fees and timing vary by service.
- If you have another bank account, depositing cash there and transferring the funds to Ally is often faster and cheaper than third-party services.
- Mobile check deposit through the Ally app works for checks but not for cash.
Depositing cash through a partner ATM network
Ally partners with Allpoint, a network of ATMs at retailers and banks across the United States. You can deposit cash at any Allpoint ATM that accepts deposits — not all of them do. To find one, use the Allpoint locator on their website or in the Ally mobile app, and filter for "deposit" capability. The ATM will guide you through the deposit process, and the funds typically post to your Ally account within one business day.
Allpoint deposits are free when you use an ATM at a bank or credit union. Deposits at retail locations (like grocery stores or pharmacies) may carry a fee of $1 to $3, depending on the retailer. Before you deposit, check the ATM screen or ask the retailer what the fee is, because you will see it charged to your account after the transaction completes.
Another option is MoneyLion, a financial app that offers cash deposit services at participating retailers. You load cash into a MoneyLion account, and then transfer the funds to your Ally checking account. This method involves an extra step and may carry fees, so it is usually slower and more expensive than an Allpoint ATM.
Transferring cash from another bank account you own
If you have a checking or savings account at another bank — especially one with physical branches or ATMs — deposit the cash there first, then transfer the money to Ally. This is often the cheapest and fastest route. Deposit the cash at your other bank's ATM or branch (most do not charge for deposits from their own customers), then log into your Ally account and initiate an external transfer.
External transfers from another bank to Ally usually take one to three business days. You will need your other bank's routing number and your account number there to set up the transfer. Once you have entered those details in the Ally app or website, you can move money back and forth between the two accounts whenever you need to.
This method works best if you already have another bank account and do not mind waiting a few days for the money to arrive. It avoids fees and gives you a clear record of where the cash came from.
What does not work for cash deposits
Ally ATMs will not accept cash deposits under any circumstances. Even though Ally ATMs are available at thousands of locations nationwide, they are designed only to dispense cash and allow balance inquiries. If you try to deposit cash at an Ally ATM, the machine will not accept it.
Mobile check deposit through the Ally app works for paper checks, but the app cannot process cash. You cannot photograph cash and deposit it remotely. You must use one of the methods above — a partner ATM, another bank account, or a third-party cash service.
Timing and fees at a glance
| Deposit Method | Time to Post | Typical Cost | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allpoint ATM (bank/credit union) | 1 business day | Free | You need cash in your account quickly and have a partner ATM nearby |
| Allpoint ATM (retail location) | 1 business day | $1–$3 | No bank ATM is available, and the fee is worth the convenience |
| Transfer from another bank account | 1–3 business days | Free | You have another bank account and can wait a few days |
| MoneyLion or similar service | 1–2 business days | Varies | You have no other bank account and no Allpoint ATM nearby |
Finding an Allpoint ATM near you
The easiest way to locate an Allpoint ATM that accepts deposits is to open the Ally mobile app, tap the ATM locator, and search for "deposit" capability. You can also visit the Allpoint website directly and use their locator tool. Both show you the exact address, hours, and whether the ATM accepts deposits.
Allpoint ATMs are commonly found at grocery stores, pharmacies, convenience stores, and bank branches. If you live in a rural area or a place with fewer retail locations, you may have fewer options nearby. In that case, transferring from another bank account is usually your best choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit cash at an Ally ATM?
No. Ally ATMs only dispense cash and allow you to check your balance. They do not accept cash deposits. You must use an Allpoint ATM, transfer from another bank account, or use a third-party cash deposit service.
Are there fees for depositing cash at Allpoint ATMs?
Deposits at bank and credit union ATMs on the Allpoint network are free. Deposits at retail locations may cost $1 to $3, depending on the retailer. Check the ATM screen before you complete the transaction to see the fee.
How long does it take for a cash deposit to show up in my Ally account?
Cash deposited at an Allpoint ATM typically posts within one business day. Transfers from another bank account take one to three business days. Exact timing depends on when you deposit and whether the day falls on a weekend or holiday.
What if there is no Allpoint ATM near me?
If you have another bank account, deposit the cash there and transfer it to Ally — this is usually free and straightforward. If you do not have another account, MoneyLion or a similar service can help, though fees and timing vary.
Can I deposit cash using the Ally mobile app?
The Ally app has mobile check deposit for paper checks, but it does not accept cash photos or remote cash deposits. You must physically deposit cash at an ATM or through another account.