Feeling that extra cash burning a hole in your pocket, but wondering how to get it into your USAA account? You've come to the right place! As a primarily online and mobile-focused bank, USAA handles cash deposits a bit differently than traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. But don't fret – there are several convenient ways to get your money where it needs to be. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each method, step-by-step, ensuring your cash deposit process is as smooth as possible.
Let's dive in and get that money deposited!
How to Deposit Cash for USAA: A Detailed Guide
While USAA doesn't have a vast network of physical branches for over-the-counter cash deposits like traditional banks, they offer several robust alternatives designed for their mobile-first members.
Step 1: Understand Your Options – What Works Best for You?
Before you even think about leaving your house, it's crucial to understand the various methods available for depositing cash with USAA. Each method has its own benefits and limitations. Consider the amount of cash you need to deposit, your proximity to specific ATMs, and your comfort level with different technologies.
- USAA-Owned Deposit-Taking ATMs: This is often the most direct method for cash deposits.
- Allpoint+ Network ATMs: A growing network of ATMs that now accept cash deposits for participating banks, including USAA.
- Money Orders: A classic and reliable method, though it involves an extra step.
- Depositing at Another Bank/Credit Union (and transferring): A viable workaround for larger or frequent cash deposits.
Let's break down each option in detail.
Step 2: Utilizing ATMs for Cash Deposits
This is often the quickest and most straightforward way to deposit cash into your USAA account.
Sub-heading 2.1: Finding a USAA Deposit-Taking ATM
USAA is expanding its network of deposit-taking ATMs. These are often located in convenient places, and using a USAA-branded ATM is usually the most seamless experience.
- Visit the USAA ATM Locator: Go to the official USAA website (
usaa.com/ATM usaa.com/banking/locations - Enter Your Location: Input your city, state, or ZIP code.
- Filter for "Deposit Cash": Make sure to select the "Deposit Cash" service option to narrow down the results to ATMs that accept cash.
- Locate the Nearest ATM: The map will display the nearest USAA deposit-taking ATMs. Note their address and hours of operation if applicable.
Sub-heading 2.2: Depositing Cash at a USAA Deposit-Taking ATM
Once you've found a USAA deposit-taking ATM, the process is quite simple.
- Insert Your USAA ATM or Debit Card: Just like you would for a withdrawal.
- Enter Your PIN: Securely enter your Personal Identification Number.
- Select "Deposit": Follow the on-screen prompts and choose the "Deposit" option.
- Choose "Cash Deposit": Indicate that you are depositing cash.
- Insert Your Bills: The ATM will have a slot for cash deposits. You can usually insert a stack of bills (up to 30 bills at a time, in any order or orientation). There's no need for an envelope or deposit slip!
- Verify the Amount: The ATM will automatically count the cash and display the total. Carefully review this amount to ensure it matches what you inserted.
- Confirm the Deposit: If the amount is correct, confirm the transaction.
- Get Your Receipt: Choose whether you want a summary receipt, a receipt with images of your deposited cash, or no receipt. It's always a good idea to get a receipt for your records.
Sub-heading 2.3: Using Allpoint+ Network ATMs for Cash Deposits
USAA has partnered with the Allpoint Network, which includes Allpoint+ ATMs that accept cash deposits for participating banks. This significantly expands your options.
- Find an Allpoint+ ATM: Use the Allpoint ATM locator (often found on the USAA website or app, or directly on the Allpoint website). Make sure to filter for "Allpoint+" locations, as only these accept deposits. Allpoint+ ATMs are typically found in major retail stores like CVS and Walgreens.
- Look for Allpoint+ Signage: The ATM itself should have clear "Allpoint+" branding.
- Insert Your USAA Debit Card: Just like any other ATM transaction.
- Follow On-Screen Instructions: The process will be similar to a USAA ATM. Select "Deposit" and then "Cash Deposit."
- Insert Cash: The machine will guide you on how to insert your bills.
- Verify and Confirm: Confirm the deposit amount displayed on the screen.
- Take Your Receipt: Always get a receipt.
Important Note: While USAA has eliminated its out-of-network ATM fees, the ATM operator might still charge a surcharge. However, USAA often refunds up to $10 per monthly statement cycle in non-USAA Bank ATM surcharge or usage fees for
Step 3: Depositing Cash via Money Order
If you don't have access to a deposit-taking ATM, a money order is a reliable alternative. This involves converting your cash into a money order and then depositing the money order as if it were a check.
Sub-heading 3.1: Purchasing a Money Order
- Gather Your Cash: Have the exact amount of cash you wish to deposit, plus a small fee for the money order.
- Visit a Location that Sells Money Orders: Common places include:
- Post Offices: Generally considered very reliable.
- Grocery Stores: Many large grocery chains offer money order services.
- Convenience Stores: Places like 7-Eleven often sell money orders.
- Walmart: Be aware that some Walmart money orders may have a "MOBILE DEPOSIT PROHIBITED" stamp, which means you cannot deposit them via the USAA mobile app. If you plan to mobile deposit, consider getting it from the Post Office.
- Fill Out the Money Order: Provide the necessary information, such as the recipient (which would be yourself, or "USAA Federal Savings Bank" if you prefer) and the amount.
- Keep Your Receipt: This is crucial! The receipt serves as proof of purchase and has tracking information.
Sub-heading 3.2: Depositing the Money Order with USAA
Once you have the money order, you can deposit it using one of two methods:
Option 3.2.1: Mobile Deposit via USAA Mobile App (Recommended)
This is the fastest way to deposit a money order once you have it.
- Open the USAA Mobile App: Log in to your account.
- Select "Deposit": Look for the deposit option, often labeled "Deposit Checks & Money Orders" or similar.
- Endorse the Money Order: Sign the back of the money order and write "For mobile deposit at USAA FSB account number [Your Account Number]" below your signature. This specific endorsement is important.
- Take Photos: The app will guide you to take clear pictures of the front and back of the money order. Ensure all four corners are visible and the image is well-lit.
- Enter the Amount: Input the exact dollar amount of the money order.
- Select Deposit Account: Choose the USAA account you want the money deposited into.
- Review and Confirm: Double-check all details before confirming the deposit.
- Keep the Money Order: Do not discard the physical money order immediately. Keep it in a safe place for a few days (e.g., 5-7 business days) until you see the funds fully clear in your USAA account, in case there are any issues. Once cleared, you can shred it.
Option 3.2.2: Deposit by Mail
This method is slower but can be used if mobile deposit isn't an option for you.
- Prepare the Money Order: Endorse the money order with your signature and "For deposit only to USAA Federal Savings Bank account number [Your Account Number]."
- Include a Deposit Slip: You can order free postage-paid envelopes and deposit slips from USAA's partner, Harland Clarke, or print one from your USAA online account. A deposit slip is essential for mail deposits.
- Mail Your Deposit: Place the endorsed money order and the deposit slip into a secure envelope and mail it to the address provided by USAA for deposits.
- Allow Processing Time: Deposits by mail generally take longer to process, typically a few business days after USAA receives them.
Step 4: Depositing Cash at Another Financial Institution (and Transferring)
For some members, especially those who frequently deal with cash or large amounts, maintaining a secondary account at a local bank or credit union can be a practical solution.
- Open a Local Account: Establish a checking or savings account with a traditional bank or credit union that has physical branches where you can easily deposit cash over the counter.
- Deposit Cash Locally: Go to the local bank or credit union and deposit your cash directly into your account there.
- Transfer Funds to USAA: Once the cash has cleared in your local account, you can transfer the funds to your USAA account via:
- Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT): Set up an external transfer from your local bank account to your USAA account online. This usually takes 1-3 business days.
- Zelle®: If both your local bank and USAA support Zelle, you can send money quickly to yourself using your phone number or email address linked to your USAA account. Note that Zelle is typically for person-to-person transfers, but you can technically send to yourself.
- Writing a Check: Write a personal check from your local bank account to yourself and then deposit it into USAA using the USAA Mobile App or by mail (as described in Step 3).
Considerations: While convenient, this method involves managing two bank accounts and potential transfer limits or fees, depending on your local bank.
Step 5: Understanding Funds Availability and Limits
Regardless of the method you choose, it's important to be aware of USAA's policies regarding funds availability and deposit limits.
Sub-heading 5.1: Funds Availability
- ATM Deposits (USAA and Allpoint+): Generally, cash and check deposits made at ATMs are made available by the next business day after the day of deposit.
- Mobile Deposits: Funds from mobile check or money order deposits are generally made available the first business day after USAA receives your deposit. If you deposit after 9 p.m. Central Time or on a non-business day, it's considered received on the next business day.
- Mail Deposits: Availability for mail deposits varies depending on when the deposit is received and processed.
- Holds: USAA, like any financial institution, may place a hold on all or a portion of deposited funds. If a hold is placed, the hold times and amounts will be displayed within the USAA Mobile App at the time of deposit or you will be notified.
Sub-heading 5.2: Deposit Limits
- ATM Deposits: Select ATMs accept deposits of up to 30 bills and 10 checks per deposit.
- Mobile Deposits: Limits vary from member to member and are displayed in the USAA Mobile App when you initiate a deposit.
- Mail Deposits: There are generally no limits for deposits made through the mail.
Step 6: What to Do If You Encounter Issues
While the process is usually smooth, issues can arise.
- Check Your Receipt: Your receipt is your first line of defense. It proves you made the deposit and should show the amount.
- Review Your Account Activity: Check your USAA account online or via the mobile app for pending transactions.
- Contact USAA Customer Service: If you've waited the appropriate processing time and the funds still haven't appeared, or if there's a discrepancy, contact USAA customer service immediately.
- Phone: 210-531-USAA (8722) or 800-531-USAA (8722).
- Secure Message: You can send a secure message through your online account or the mobile app.
- Have all relevant information ready, including the date and time of deposit, the method used, and any receipt details.
By following these steps, you can effectively deposit cash into your USAA account and keep your finances flowing smoothly!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about depositing cash with USAA:
How to find the nearest USAA ATM for cash deposits?
You can find the nearest USAA deposit-taking ATM by using the USAA ATM Locator tool on their website (
How to deposit cash for USAA if I don't have a deposit-taking ATM nearby?
If there isn't a USAA or Allpoint+ deposit-taking ATM nearby, your best alternative is to purchase a money order with your cash and then deposit the money order using the USAA Mobile App or by mail.
How to use the USAA Mobile App for cash deposits?
The USAA Mobile App does not directly accept cash deposits. Instead, you can use it to deposit money orders (which are purchased with cash) by taking photos of the front and back of the money order.
How to endorse a money order for USAA mobile deposit?
To endorse a money order for mobile deposit with USAA, sign the back of the money order and write "For mobile deposit at USAA FSB account number [Your USAA Account Number]" directly below your signature.
How to get a deposit slip for USAA mail deposits?
You can order free postage-paid envelopes and deposit slips directly from USAA's partner, Harland Clarke, or in some cases, you can print a generic deposit slip from your USAA online banking account.
How to know my USAA cash deposit limit at an ATM?
USAA-selected ATMs typically accept up to 30 bills per cash deposit. For mobile check/money order deposits, your specific limit will be displayed within the USAA Mobile App when you initiate a deposit.
How to check if my USAA cash deposit has cleared?
You can check the status of your deposit by logging into your USAA account online or through the USAA Mobile App and reviewing your account activity for pending or posted transactions.
How to avoid fees when depositing cash for USAA?
Using a USAA-owned deposit-taking ATM will have no fees from USAA. While Allpoint+ ATMs may sometimes charge a surcharge, USAA typically refunds up to $10 per month in non-USAA ATM fees. Money order purchase fees are separate from USAA.
How to transfer cash from another bank to USAA after depositing it there?
After depositing cash at a local bank or credit union, you can transfer the funds to your USAA account via electronic funds transfer (EFT) by linking the external account, or by writing a personal check from that account and mobile depositing it into USAA.
How to contact USAA customer service about a cash deposit issue?
For any issues with a cash deposit, contact USAA customer service by calling their main number at 210-531-USAA (8722) or 800-531-USAA (8722), or by sending a secure message through your online account or mobile app.