If you own your ATM and load the cash yourself, here’s the short version: it depends on your transaction volume, and it’s better to start conservative and adjust.
Quick Reference by Volume
| Monthly Transactions | Suggested Load | Refill Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 50–100 | $2,000–$3,000 | Every 1–2 weeks |
| 100–200 | $3,000–$5,000 | Weekly |
| 200+ | $5,000–$10,000 | Twice per week |
Most ATM software tracks usage in real time and will alert you before cash runs low, so these numbers are a starting point, not a rule — adjust based on your actual withdrawal patterns.
A Few Quick Notes
- Stock mostly $20 bills — it’s the standard denomination for single-cassette machines and what customers expect
- Weekend-heavy businesses (bars, event venues) may need a bigger load right before Friday even if the weekly total looks modest, since demand concentrates in a two-day window
- Reconcile every load against your processor’s settlement reports so discrepancies get caught early, not weeks later
For the full picture — denomination mix, security practices while loading, and when a third-party cash loading service makes sense instead of doing it yourself — see our complete ATM cash loading best practices guide.
Don’t Want to Handle Cash Loading at All?
If you’d rather not manage this yourself, our free ATM placement program includes cash loading as part of the service — no upfront cost, no need to think about refill schedules. Contact us to see if your location qualifies.