Tag Archive for: atm business owners

ATM Power Requirements: Can Batteries or Solar Power Run an ATM?

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Do you need to know ATM power requirements for events and off-grid locations? Powering an ATM isn’t always as simple as plugging it into the wall. 

Whether you’re deploying an ATM at a dedicated full-time location, planning a temporary event, or looking for backup power during outages, many people ask the same question: Can an ATM run on batteries or solar power?

The short answer is yes. However, the right solution depends on usage, location, and expectations. This article explains how much power ATMs use, what battery and solar setups realistically require, and how to choose the best option for full-time locations versus temporary events.

How Much Power Does an ATM Use?

One of the most common misconceptions is that ATMs use very little electricity. In reality, ATM power requirements are closer to those of a small office workstation than a phone charger. While exact numbers vary by manufacturer and model, you can expect typical ATM power consumption to fall within general ranges. 

There are two power states: idle and dispensing. A typical ATM, like the Genmega 2500, draws roughly 25-100 watts when idle and between 150–300 watts when dispensing or printing during a transaction. Large or illuminated screens, toppers, receipt printers, cash recyclers and outdoor or through-the-wall (TTW) ATMs will see higher average power draws. 

Dispensing and printing lasts only a few seconds. So for most ATMs, 99%+ of the time is spent idle, meaning the majority of the energy draw is from the idle state. When considering a power source, know that any battery or solar solution must handle both continuous power draw and short bursts of higher demand.

Powering ATMs with Batteries: What’s Required

Battery power is often the foundation of off-grid or backup ATM setups. However, not all battery systems are the same. There are some factors you need to consider before selecting the most appropriate battery system.

Battery Power for Full-Time Dedicated ATM Locations

For permanent or semi-permanent installations without reliable grid power, battery-only systems require careful planning.

First, consider the total runtime required: 8, 12, 24+ hours? What’s the expected daily average transaction volume? What’s the battery capacity (measured in watt-hours or kilowatt-hours)? Will there be temperature control and ventilation?

Keep in mind that small consumer uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units typically used for computers are not sufficient for running an ATM for extended periods. Most full-time setups require a large battery bank (often lithium-based), a high-quality inverter (pure sine wave is critical for ATMs), and a method for recharging (solar or generator).

Lithium batteries are increasingly preferred over lead-acid. This is due to higher efficiency, longer lifespans, faster charging times, and reduced maintenance.

Battery Power for Temporary Events and Pop-Ups

Events such as festivals, fairs, sporting events, and pop-up retail locations have different requirements.

Overall, battery power works well for events. Operating windows are usually short (4–12 hours). There are predictable transaction spikes. And there is no need for permanent installation.

Therefore, common solutions include portable power stations, custom battery banks with inverters, and hybrid battery+generator setups.

High-traffic events may still exceed the capacity of many “plug-and-play” battery units, especially if the ATM is used continuously. Operate by this rule of thumb: The busier the event, the more likely a generator or hybrid system is needed.

Can Solar Power Run an ATM? The Reality of Solar Powered ATMs

Solar power is one of the most frequently misunderstood ATM power options. While solar can support an ATM, it rarely works as a standalone solution.

Solar panels do not directly power ATMs in most cases. Instead, they charge batteries during daylight hours, extend battery runtime, and reduce reliance on generators or grid power.

To estimate solar needs, account for ATM power usage, number of operating hours per day, average daily sunlight (“sun hours”), and seasonal and weather variability.

Simply, daily ATM energy needs ÷ average sun hours = required solar capacity.

Because ATMs must operate reliably regardless of cloud cover or nighttime use, solar almost always requires a battery bank.

The Most Practical Option: Solar + Battery Hybrid Systems

For off-grid or semi-remote locations, hybrid solar-and-battery systems are often the most reliable solution.

Batteries provide consistent power while solar panels recharge batteries during the day. This combination reduces generator runtime or fuel costs and improves uptime.

Hybrid systems work especially well for rural or remote ATM locations, seasonal venues (campgrounds, marinas, tourist areas), disaster recovery or emergency deployments, and environmentally focused businesses.

While upfront costs are higher, hybrid systems often deliver better long-term reliability than battery-only setups.

FAQs About Battery and Solar ATM Power Requirements

Can a portable power station run an ATM?

Some high-capacity portable power stations can run an ATM temporarily, but many are not designed for continuous high loads or transaction spikes. Always verify wattage limits and inverter quality.

How long will a battery last during heavy ATM usage?

High transaction volume significantly shortens runtime. Continuous dispensing can drain batteries much faster than idle operation.

Can one solar system power multiple ATMs?

It’s possible, but system size increases quickly. Each additional ATM adds substantial load and complexity.

A 100W solar panel generates about 400–600 Wh/day (real-world conditions). That’s only 20–25% of one ATM’s daily use, so fully sustaining a 3-day, 24/7 setup would require at least 3×100W panels, ideally 400W of solar input, to keep the power station topped off during the day.

Is battery or solar power allowed by ATM manufacturers?

Most manufacturers specify strict power requirements. Improper power delivery may void warranties or cause hardware issues.

What happens if power drops mid-transaction?

Power interruptions can cause transaction failures, cash errors, or machine downtime. Therefore, stable power is critical.

Choosing the Right ATM Power Strategy

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for meeting ATM power requirements without traditional electricity. You can follow these general guidelines based on your specific needs and expectations:

  • Permanent off-grid ATM: Large battery bank + solar + backup generator
  • Temporary events: Portable battery systems or battery-generator hybrids
  • Backup power only: High-capacity UPS or short-term battery support

The right choice depends on transaction volume, location, reliability expectations, and budget. However, the next section offers a couple of “plug-and-play” templates you can use to swap in your own specs (transactions, hours, wattage, battery size, solar input) without needing to be an engineer!

Real-World ATM Power Scenarios You Can Model

The easiest way to estimate ATM power requirements for events or off-grid locations is to think in scenarios, not averages. An ATM may be “idle” most of the time, but short bursts of activity—screen brightness, cash dispensing, receipt printing, and communications—drive real power needs.

Here are two common scenarios that you as a deployer may find useful as templates.

Scenario 1: Event-Based ATM (Transaction-Driven Load)

Use this model if you’re deploying an ATM at a festival, fair, concert, or pop-up event and want to estimate power needs based on expected usage.

Assumptions (example):

  • ATM activity: 50 transactions per day (or ~15 transactions per hour during a 3–4 hour peak window)
  • Idle power draw: 25 watts
  • Active transaction power draw: 120 watts
  • Average transaction duration: 60 seconds
  • Operating time: 12 hours

Step 1: Calculate idle energy.

  • 25 W × 12 hours = 300 Wh/day

Step 2: Calculate transaction energy.

  • 50 transactions × 1 minute = 50 minutes of activity
  • 120 W × (50 ÷ 60 hours) ≈ 100 Wh/day
  • Estimated daily energy usage ~400 Wh per day

In practice, this means that a 500 Wh battery would comfortably cover a single day with margin. A 1,000 Wh battery would provide multi-day coverage or insurance against heavier-than-expected usage. 

A small portable solar (100–200 W) can offset idle draw during daylight but usually won’t fully recharge in one day during an event. So, for short events, most of your energy is spent keeping the ATM awake rather than dispensing cash. Planning around idle draw prevents surprise shutdowns late in the day.

Scenario 2: Genmega 2500 ATM (Off-Grid Deployment)

Use this model if you’re deploying a specific ATM model in a semi-permanent or unattended off-grid location. Use the specifications of your ATM model to get a closer estimation.

Assumptions (example):

  • ATM model: Genmega G2500
  • Average idle draw: 25–30 watts
  • Peak active draw: 120–150 watts
  • Location usage: Low volume (≤40 transactions/day)
  • Target uptime: 24/7

Step 1: Estimate daily energy consumption.

  • Idle load: 27 W × 24 hours ≈ 650 Wh/day
  • Transaction load: ~100 Wh/day
  • Total: ~750 Wh/day

Step 2: Check battery size.

  • 1,000 Wh battery → ~1.3 days runtime
  • 2,000 Wh battery → ~2.5 days runtime
  • 3,000 Wh battery → ~4 days runtime (recommended for weather variability)

Step 3: Check solar size (to remain energy-neutral):

  • Daily energy need: 750 Wh
  • Average usable sun: 4–5 hours/day

Required solar:

  • 750 Wh ÷ 4.5 hours ≈ 170 W minimum

Opt for a 300–400 W solar array to recharge batteries after cloudy days, offset inverter losses, and account for seasonal variation. This setup supports continuous off-grid operation, multi-day autonomy during poor weather, and reduced maintenance visits for battery swaps. 

You can adapt these scenarios to your own deployment. Customize by adjusting transactions per day or hour, idle wattage (check your ATM’s spec sheet), operating hours, desired battery life (1 day vs. 3-5 days), and local solar conditions.

ATM power planning is about energy over time, not peak wattage alone. Once you understand your idle load and transaction profile, sizing batteries and solar becomes straightforward and far more reliable.

Here, we recommend some equipment to help ATM deployers like you choose actual power stations or kits. We include options for both event-style temporary setups and longer-term off-grid locations. These selections span from ~1 kWh portable units (good for short events) up to larger solar-ready systems for multi-day/off-grid use:

For Short Events and Temporary Deployments

These 1 kWh-class units are light enough to carry and sized appropriately for portable ATM setups or short event power needs (with solar recharging if a panel is paired):

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 V2 has ~1,070 Wh capacity and ~1,500 W output. It includes solar panel support and multiple ports making it a solid all-around choice for event deployers.

The Anker SOLIX C1000 Gen2 Portable Power Station is another option with ~1,024 Wh, two 100 W solar panels included in some bundles, and a good balance of power and recharge speed.

Finally, the Dabbsson DBS1000 Pro Solar Generator has ~1,024 Wh with a robust inverter and solar support which is nice for slightly heavier loads or UPS-style backups.

Your bonus event kit option is the Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus Solar Generator Kit. It combines a ~1 kWh station with two 100 W panels for better solar input and faster recharge during multi-day events.

For Permanent/Off-Grid ATM Installations

For deployments where you expect continuous operation or need multi-day autonomy and robust solar recharging, these larger units offer more capacity and power headroom:

The Pecron E2000LFP Portable Power Station offers ~1,920 Wh capacity with ~2,000 W output. It’s a solid choice for powering an ATM plus comms/lighting for longer off-grid periods.

The Jackery Explorer 2000 V2 Solar Generator has ~2,000 Wh and ~2,200 W output in a relatively portable footprint which works well for unattended locations.

The OUKITEL BP2000 PRO Portable Power Station offers ~2,048 Wh with a strong inverter and high solar input capability. This is a good option for multi-day or high-reliability installs.

And the Yoshino K20SP21 Solid-State Portable Solar Generator offers ~1,326 Wh with a strong 2,000 W output and multiple ports. This option works well for mixed loads and higher-draw components like routers or lighting.

Additional Tips

Try to match capacity to uptime needs.

For short events, ~1 kWh (1,000 Wh) is often enough with a couple hundred watts of solar charging. For multi-day or unattended sites, aim for ~2 kWh+ and scalable solar input so you don’t run flat during cloudy stretches. If solar panel pairing, most power stations support MPPT solar input, but panel size matters—more watts = faster recharge. 

And in terms of UPS behavior, if the ATM needs uninterrupted power (even through swaps), choose units with UPS passthrough support or devices designed for seamless transfer.

Understanding ATM Power Requirements

Battery and solar power can absolutely play a role in ATM deployments, but only when designed realistically. Understanding ATM power requirements, transaction behavior, and environmental factors is essential to avoiding downtime and costly mistakes.

If you’re considering an off-grid or temporary ATM installation, working with professionals who understand both ATM hardware and power systems can save time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Still have questions about ATM power requirements for event and off-grid deployments? Contact us at ATMDepot.com today!

How Do You Pay Yourself as a Business Owner?

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If you are thinking about starting an ATM business, or any business for that matter, you might be wondering how do you pay yourself as a business owner. When you start your own business, it’s easy to focus on customers, products, and growth and forget one big question: how do you actually pay yourself?

Whether you’re running a one-person freelance operation or managing a small company with employees, paying yourself the right way is crucial for both your finances and your business’s long-term health. Especially in the ATM industry, how do you keep your revenue separate from your business expenses? And how do you calculate your profit? 

In this article, we’ll break down your options and how to do it correctly.

How Do You Pay Yourself as a Business Owner: By Business Structure

How you pay yourself depends first and foremost on how your business is legally set up. The IRS treats each structure differently when it comes to income, taxes, and distributions. 

Sole Proprietorship

If you’re a sole proprietor, your business and personal finances are legally the same. You don’t get a “paycheck”. Instead, you simply draw money from your profits. This is called an owner’s draw and is the most common route for independent ATM deployers (IADs).

With this structure, you’ll pay self-employment taxes (Social Security and Medicare) on your net income so it’s smart to set aside about 25–30% of your profits for taxes.

Partnership

Partners usually take owner’s draws as well based on their share of the partnership’s profits. Therefore, you’ll also pay self-employment taxes on your share. If you are entering into a partnership, make sure your partnership agreement clearly outlines how and when draws are made.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

How you pay yourself as an LLC depends on whether you’re a single-member or multi-member LLC and whether you elect to be taxed as an S corporation.

In a single-member LLC, you take an owner’s draw, similar to a sole proprietor. In a multi-member LLC, each member takes draws according to ownership percentage.

LLCs can also be taxed as an S corporation. In this scenario, you can pay yourself a reasonable salary through payroll and take dividends/distributions from profits often with potential tax savings.

Corporation (C Corp or S Corp)

If you’ve incorporated, you’re both an owner and an employee. In a C Corporation, you receive a salary as an employee; dividends may be taxed separately. In an S Corporation, you must pay yourself a “reasonable salary” and can also take dividends.

When determining which structure to use when you legally set up your business, consider these distinctions and IRS guidelines. For more information about how to structure an ATM business, check out our article Do You Need an LLC for ATM Business?

Salary vs. Owner’s Draw

There are two terms for business owners paying themselves: salary and owner’s draw. If you’re taking a salary (S Corps, C Corps, LLCs taxed as S Corps), you’ll set up payroll and withhold taxes just like you would for an employee. An owner’s draw is when you take money out of your company’s account for personal use. 

As an IAD (sole proprietors, partners, LLCs), you will probably take a draw—it’s a simple way to pay yourself. However, the funds are considered taxable income and are therefore subject to self-employment taxes. So, it’s more flexible than a salary, but it requires discipline to budget for taxes and business expenses. 

How Much Should You Pay Yourself as a Business Owner?

There is no set number, percentage, formula or one-size-fits all answer to the question of how much you should pay yourself as a business owner. However, there are some guidelines you can use to help you gauge this:

First, make sure your personal needs are covered. Consider your minimum monthly take-home number for rent, bills, and other essentials. 

Then, reinvest in your business. Avoid draining your profits early on. Leave enough cash to fund operations, market, or set aside for emergencies or upgrades.

It’s also a good idea to base your pay on business performance. If profits fluctuate, consider a lower base pay and quarterly bonuses when income is strong. (For S Corp owners, the IRS requires that your salary be “reasonable”—in line with what someone doing your job would earn.)

Since many IADs at least start their ATM businesses as side hustles, these guidelines may not necessarily apply. A regular or full-time job may be covering rent and regular bills. In that case, your profit from your ATM business simply goes into your pocket less the amount you want to reinvest in your business.

How Do You Pay Yourself as a Business Owner: Best Practices

Even if you’re the only person in your business, it’s important to separate your finances to keep things organized, clean, and compliant. Therefore, you should open a dedicated business bank account, use accounting software, automate transfers, and save for taxes.

A dedicated business bank account helps ensure that you don’t use business funds to pay for personal expenses and vice versa. As an IAD, you’ll want two business bank accounts: one from which to withdraw and settle the vault cash for the ATM and a second one into which surcharge revenue is deposited. 

Accounting software like QuickBooks or Wave can help you to track payments and expenses. Don’t forget to allocate a percentage each quarter to taxes, maybe in a separate tax account.

These best practices simplify bookkeeping and make your business more professional.

How to Pay Yourself as an ATM Business Owner (IADs)

If you operate an ATM business—especially as an IAD—the same principles of paying yourself apply, but the cash flow and accounting setup look a little different.

Your income doesn’t come from invoices or client checks; it comes from surcharge fees. Because of that, how you pay yourself depends on how your business is structured and how you manage those cash flows.

Here is what paying yourself might look like as an IAD:

Separate Business and Personal Cash

Keeping business and personal cash separate is especially critical in an ATM business where literal cash is constantly moving. Maintain a dedicated business bank account for surcharge deposits and vault cash management. 

Never take cash directly from the ATM for personal use because it complicates tracking and may raise red flags with processors or regulators. Instead, transfer your profits electronically into your personal account as your “pay.”

Determine What “Profit” Really Means

In the ATM world, “gross surcharge revenue” isn’t the same as profit. Before paying yourself, you must account for a few deductions. These might include processing/network fees, vault cash replenishment, split commissions with location owners, maintenance costs, insurance, internet/telecommunications, repairs, etc. 

What’s left is your true net business income, and that’s where your pay comes from. Check out our article “Is an ATM Business Profitable: How Much ATM Business Owners Make” for more information about how to calculate ATM business profit.

Build a Predictable Payout System

ATM income can fluctuate with transaction volume, so consistency is key.

You can transfer a fixed amount to yourself each month as base pay, then add quarterly bonuses if profits exceed expectations. Use accounting software to track each ATM’s performance and your total net cash flow. And always leave enough in the business account to replenish vault cash and cover service costs.

Keep Tax and Regulatory Compliance in Mind

Because ATM businesses deal with cash and financial networks, your business draws more scrutiny from banks and regulators. To protect yourself, keep accurate digital records of every transaction and payout. You can do this through remote online monitoring of your machine activity. This service should be offered by the processing company you work with. 

Pay self-employment or payroll taxes on your compensation depending on your structure. If your business has partners or investors, clearly document how profits and distributions are divided. If necessary, consult an accountant experienced with ATM operators. They’ll understand the nuances of reporting surcharge revenue and managing cash float.

How Do You Pay Yourself as a Business Owner: The Bottom Line

Treat your paycheck like any other business expense. The more intentional you are about how and when you pay yourself, the stronger and more sustainable your business will be.

For ATM owners, your business might run on quick access to cash, but your pay shouldn’t. Treat your ATM income like any other small business revenue—run it through your books, pay yourself strategically, and always keep tax and vault funds separate. The result is smoother operations, cleaner records, and sustainable profit for the long run.

Still have questions about how do you pay yourself as a business owner in the ATM industry? Don’t hesitate to contact us at ATMDepot before starting your own ATM business. There’s money to be made—we can help!

Bookkeeping and Taxes for ATM Entrepreneurs: Why Zoho Books Is the Smart Start

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Disclaimer: This is not tax advice. I’m not a CPA. Always check with a qualified tax professional before making financial decisions. What follows is based on real-world experience in the ATM business, plus what works for many independent ATM deployers (IADs) just getting started.

Why Bookkeeping Matters in the ATM Business

When you’re new to the ATM business, it’s easy to think:

  • “I’ll track deposits in my bank account.”
  • “I’ll remember what I spent on paper and modems.”
  • “Taxes? I’ll deal with them when April rolls around.”

That approach works for about three months… until:

  • You forget which deposits are surcharge revenue vs. vault cash cycling back.
  • You scramble to find receipts for ATM supplies.
  • You miss deductions that could have saved you thousands.

Good bookkeeping isn’t busywork. It’s the foundation of:

  • Clear financial reporting
  • Stress-free tax preparation
  • Understanding which ATMs make money and which need to be relocated

And here’s the truth: your ATM business may be small at first, but the IRS doesn’t care. If you earn $1 or $1 million, they expect clean, accurate reporting.

How the ATM Business Works with Bookkeeping

Before diving into software, let’s clear up what you actually need to track:

  • Surcharge Income: This is your revenue. Every transaction generates a fee, and your processor pays it out to you.
  • Vault Cash: This refers to your money circulating in and out of the machine. It’s not income, but you need to track it so you know how much is tied up in ATMs.
  • Expenses: Wireless modems, receipt paper, ATM parts, travel costs, insurance, marketing, etc.
  • ATM Assets: The machines themselves. You’ll depreciate these for tax purposes (typically 5 years under MACRS).

If you try to track all this with just a bank statement, good luck. You’ll constantly mix up deposits, and when tax time comes, you’ll wish you had started earlier.

Why Zoho Books Free Plan Is a Great Starting Point

Here’s the deal:

  • Zoho Books is 100% free if your annual revenue is under $50,000.
  • When you’re starting, $50k revenue is usually half a dozen ATMs doing around $700–$800 each per month.
  • It could take 6 months to a year to hit that, unless you’re an absolute hustler placing machines nonstop.

That means you can run your books professionally, at no cost, during your startup phase. By the time you outgrow the free plan, your business should be making enough to cover paid software.

Pros and Cons of Zoho Books

Pros:

  • Free under $50k revenue
  • Cloud-based (log in anywhere)
  • Easy to use—much friendlier than spreadsheets
  • Automates recurring entries (like surcharge payouts)
  • Can connect to bank accounts for automatic imports
  • Generates basic tax-ready reports

Cons:

  • Not as widely recognized as QuickBooks (some CPAs prefer QuickBooks files)
  • Limited integrations compared to larger tools
  • If you outgrow the free plan, pricing jumps (though still cheaper than QuickBooks)
  • Payroll features are limited in the U.S.

For most new IADs, the pros heavily outweigh the cons.

Zoho Books vs QuickBooks vs Spreadsheets

Here’s the side-by-side:

FeatureZoho Books FreeQuickBooks OnlineSpreadsheets
CostFree under $50k$30–$90/monthFree (time cost)
Ease of UseBeginner-friendlySteeper learning curveDepends on your skills
ATM Specific SetupEasy to customize categoriesDoable, more complexManual formulas
ReportsGood basics (P&L, balance sheet)Excellent, advancedOnly what you build
ScalabilityUpgrade when you growScales easilyDoesn’t scale well
CPA FriendlySome CPAs less familiarIndustry standardCPAs hate it
AutomationBank feeds, recurring entriesBest-in-class automationZero

Verdict:

  • Spreadsheets are fine if you like pain, broken formulas, and staying up until 2 AM in April.
  • QuickBooks is powerful, but it can be pricey for beginners.
  • Zoho Books free plan is the sweet spot for new IADs.

Setting Up Zoho Books

Here’s how to get started. I’m not going to show actual screenshots of my setup and blur things, so show you with a simulated screenshot.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Welcome to Zoho Books
[Get Started for Free]
Track income, expenses, invoices and more—all in one place.
  • Go to Zoho Books and sign up for the free plan.
  • Use your business email (not personal Gmail) to keep things professional.

Step 2: Add Your Bank Account

 Banking  
[Link Bank Account]
No accounts linked yet
  • Click Link Bank Account.
  • Connect the account where your processor deposits surcharge or where you receive any other revenue (this is NOT your vault account).
  • This will let you automatically import transactions.

Step 3: Set Up Categories

ATM Revenue

 Record Income
Amount: $1,000 
Category: [ +Add New Category ] 

Notes: Processor payouts or Surcharge Income
  • Add new category: ATM Surcharge Revenue
  • Use this every time your processor deposits your surcharge share.

Vault Cash

Transfer Funds  
From: Business Bank Account
To: Vault Cash Clearing 
Amount: $5,000 
  • Create a category called Vault Cash Clearing.
  • This helps you track how much of your money is sitting inside ATMs.
  • Set aside a fixed amount that you will use for vault cash. You will always balance back to this amount, as vault cash funds are either in the ATM, in the vault cash account, or in transit after being withdrawn. This will be set up in a vault cash account at your bank (other than your income account).

Step 4: Generate Reports

Reports
Profit & Loss 
Balance Sheet
Cash Flow Statement
Expense by Category
  • Profit & Loss shows surcharge revenue minus expenses.
  • The Balance Sheet shows ATM machines as assets, and vault cash as clearing.
  • Expense by Category shows where your money goes.

Pro tip: Run these monthly. Don’t wait until tax season.

Basic Tax Strategies for ATM IADs (Not Tax Advice)

Here are the basics you’ll want to remember (and run by a CPA):

  • Separate accounts: Never mix personal and business.
  • Track mileage: Every trip to load or service an ATM can be deducted.
  • Depreciate machines: ATMs are 5-year assets. Depreciation saves you money.
  • Keep receipts: For supplies, wireless, repairs, and insurance.
  • Know your 1099-Ks: Your processor may issue them, but confirm income matches your books.
  • Quarterly taxes: If you’re profitable, set aside money and pay quarterly to avoid penalties.

Will you Outgrow Zoho Books?

The question is really whether you’ll want to upgrade or change when:

  • Your revenue is consistently over $50k (the Zoho Free version is limited to $50K)
  • You add employees or need payroll
  • You want more integrations with other apps
  • Your CPA insists on QuickBooks or other software for easier collaboration if you hire one

Options:

  • Upgrade Zoho to a paid plan (still cheaper than QuickBooks)
  • Switch to QuickBooks or Xero and import data
  • Export from Zoho before hitting limits

Final Thoughts

If you’re just starting your ATM business:

  • Don’t waste time with messy spreadsheets.
  • Don’t pay for QuickBooks before you need it.
  • Use Zoho Books Free Plan to track revenue, vault cash, and expenses.

You’ll learn good bookkeeping habits without spending a dime. And when you reach $50k revenue, congratulations — you’ll have other opportunities, such as deciding how to scale, rather than whether you can afford accounting software.

Web Page Benefits: 7 Reasons to Design a Custom ATM Web Page

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Web page benefits are numerous when it comes to scaling your ATM business. If you’ve been wishing that leads would just come to you, we’ve got the solution: a custom-designed web page. 

In today’s digital marketplace, even cash-focused industries like ATM operations can’t afford to overlook the power of an online presence. You as an ATM business owner rely heavily on visibility, trust, and accessibility to attract new partners and retain customers. A custom-built website offers ATM businesses more than just a digital storefront. It serves as a tool to showcase services, build credibility, and connect with merchants and customers in real time. 

From highlighting machine locations to offering partnership opportunities, a tailored web page can turn an ATM company into a professional, trustworthy brand that stands out in a competitive market. Keep reading to see how a custom web page can benefit you and how to get access to a done-for-you custom ATM business web page.

7 Web Page Benefits

1. Professional Branding and Credibility

A custom web page allows you to fully align the design with your brand identity. This might include colors, logos, tone, style, etc. specific to who you are and what your business represents. These brand indicators can be applied to other marketing tools, too, like social media pages, business cards, machine wraps, or even your clothing. Branding allows your specific business to be recognized on sight—you become who people think of when they need ATM service.

Strong branding also builds trust. It creates an image of professionalism and dedication. Especially when it comes to a web page, customers often view businesses with their own site as more legitimate than those relying only on social media or third-party platforms.

2. Full Control and Flexibility

Unlike template-based sites, you’re not limited in layout or functionality with a custom web page. You can add features tailored to your business. For example, consider adding one or more of the following:

  • ATM Locator Map (integrated with Google Maps)
  • Service Offerings (installation, operation, cash loading, monitoring, maintenance)
  • Partnership Opportunities (for retailers who want to host an ATM)
  • Testimonials and Case Studies (to build credibility with merchants)
  • Support/Contact Page (quick help for machine issues or merchant questions)

A custom web page also offers integration opportunities. Analytics can track which locations customers search for most. Interested retailers can use lead capture forms to request a machine. And customer support tools like live chat and FAQs can improve the customer experience.

3. Better User Experience (UX)

A custom web page can be designed around your customers’ needs, making navigation intuitive and improving engagement. You can streamline the journey so visitors quickly find what they’re looking for whether it’s services, products, or contact info. 

Publishing information like location finders and surcharge rates can make your ATMs more convenient than your competitors’. You also have the opportunity for mobile optimization. Many ATM customers are on-the-go, so a mobile-friendly design ensures users can quickly find ATM locations or services.

4. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

A custom web page can be optimized from the ground up for search engines, giving you a better chance of ranking higher on Google. More organic traffic means less reliance on paid ads. 

SEO and visibility are the biggest web page benefits. It helps your business web page show up when people search “ATM near me” or “ATM services”. Featuring your custom web page on an already high-ranking website, like an “ATM providers near me” web directory, helps you be seen and get the traffic you need. 

Businesses that create custom web pages on high-ranking directories or websites improve visibility, credibility, and lead generation. This increases revenue and offers long-term growth. These benefits come from both the SEO boost and the trust that consumers place in reputable directories.

Enhancing your online presence and appearing in an “ATM providers near me” targeted directory listings significantly increases the likelihood of being discovered by local businesses actively seeking your services. It allows you to stand out in the digital landscape.

5. Scalability and Long-Term Savings

As your business grows, a custom web page can grow with you. New features, sections, or tools can be added without rebuilding from scratch.

When considering the upfront cost, remember that a custom web page can save money over time compared to paying for multiple plugins, subscriptions, or redesigns. And the value a custom web page provides in increased visibility and lead generation for merchant partnerships more than justifies the cost.

6. Improved Security

Custom web pages can be built with stronger security measures than other, ready-made platforms, reducing risks of hacking or data breaches. ATM businesses handle financial transactions, so websites need to reflect security and professionalism. On a custom web page, you can highlight SSL certificates, compliance messaging, and trust signals.

7. Competitive Advantage

A unique, well-designed web page sets you apart from competitors who may be using the same cookie-cutter templates. In this way, you communicate what makes your business distinct. Not to mention the advantage this visibility gives you over competitors with no online presence.

How to Reap Your Web Page Benefits

Lack the technical know-how, time, and resources to sit down and design your own web page? Skip the DIY. ATMDepot.com now offers a done-for-you custom ATM business web page service. Unlock the full potential of your ATM business with Pro+ Membership and a custom-designed web page. 

A custom web page isn’t just “nice to have”. It’s a business growth tool. If you are just starting out in the ATM business, it’s a good idea to make your ROI and start making consistent profit before budgeting for marketing. But once you get more established and start to figure out what your brand is and the direction you want to take your business, a custom web page is a MUST when it comes to scaling.

Our done-for-you web page isn’t just a listing—it’s your local digital storefront built for search engines, trust, and lead generation. Designed exclusively for Pro+ Members, this page turns you into the go-to ATM provider to build your business and become known as the “ATM Provider Near Me” so you can get exclusive online leads! Gain instant online credibility to become the local ATM expert and the go-to guy/gal in your area.

Build local authority. Attract leads. Boost your ATM business. Invest in your digital presence and visit ATMDepot.com today to reap those web page benefits and own your local market!

Who’s Starting a Side Hustle and Why?

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A side hustle is a way to generate extra money in addition to a regular salary. Whether you have a part-time job, a series of gigs, or a full-time job, a side hustle is something you can do to bring in a little more income. 

It might seem surprising, though, that so many people are looking to a side hustle even when working full-time. Shouldn’t full-time income be enough? For most people, it seems, a side hustle offers a financial boost. It’s something that can be used for those “nice-to-have” budgets while the full-time income covers the “need-to-have”. 

However, the right side hustle isn’t a grind. It shouldn’t be something that drains your battery, that you dread, or that you cut corners on. For many people, a side hustle means making money doing something they genuinely enjoy.

This article draws upon Bankrate’s recent Side Hustle Survey. The results show how some professionals are finding personal and professional gain from their side hustle, not just financial gain. And the beauty of a side hustle is that, if done right, you get to choose how you spend that time, just like other professionals have. Could an ATM business be that side hustle for you?

Why Start a Side Hustle?

The number one reason to start a side hustle is to make extra money. But what is that money for? According to Bankrate’s Side Hustle Survey, 41% of side hustlers use their extra income for discretionary purchases, 35% for regular living expenses, 28% for savings, and 20% for paying down debt.

But the rewards of a side hustle aren’t just financial. One nurse, for example, works as a school nurse in between her regular shifts to get a wider range of patient experience. She gets personal fulfillment from her side hustle. “I work with older adults who are critically sick, so seeing little kids be joyous and jovial and happy all the time is better for my mental health,” Vivian Ezugwu says.

Loan underwriter Martin de Anda started flyer distribution as a side hustle to afford the luxury of going out in his free time. He enjoys the socialization he gets from his side hustle which his desk job doesn’t offer. But after developing a strong client-base, he was able to take this flexible side hustle full time. “I have the flexibility of actually choosing when I want to take a break and just not work because I want to go to the beach or the movies,” he says.

According to Bankrate’s survey, average side hustler monthly income is $885 in 2025. While that might not sound like a lot, a side hustle can also be a way to broaden experiences, give back to your community, or monetize your hobbies. And for some people, when they realize that they can turn their side hustle into a full-time gig, the flexibility often is the biggest incentive. 

Who’s Starting a Side Hustle?

Bankrate’s survey found that younger generations are more likely to have a side job. However, no age group is excluded. Of all side hustlers, 34% are GenZ (18-28), 31% are millennials (29-44), 23% are GenX (45-60), and 22% are boomers (61-79). 

Young professionals in their 20s and 30s, like Ezugwu and de Anda, might seek extra income to pay off student loans, save for travel, or supplement entry-level wages. Mid-career workers in their 30s, 40s, and 50s might be seeking more financial security, exploring a career change, or testing a business idea before leaving their main job. 

Stay-at-home parents seek flexible income that fits around childcare schedules. Retirees use their skills and hobbies to bring in supplemental income or stay active. Creative professionals and hobbyists can turn passions like art, photography, writing, etc. into small revenue streams.

So no matter who you are, a side hustle is not out of reach. 

Why an ATM Business Is the Ultimate Side Hustle

An ATM business can also make a good side hustle for any generation. While GenZers can start an ATM business if they have the capital, Bankrate reports that 34% of GenZers don’t even have an emergency savings fund. But, with savings or financing access, an ATM business can generate income while working full time. The extra income can accelerate debt payoff or savings without adding a second demanding job.

The 30- to 50-year-old mid-career workers, on the other hand, are more likely to have the capital necessary ($2,000-$4,000) to start an ATM business. An ATM business is semi-passive once machines are installed and filled, so it can run alongside a full-time job. An ATM business creates a stable second income stream for long-term wealth building or debt payoff.

Stay-at-home parents can benefit from an ATM business because it can be managed during off-peak hours. Once machines are set up, the workload is predictable and not 9–5 dependent. It offers steady, recurring income that doesn’t require constant active selling or being tied to a desk.

An ATM business can be good for retirees due to its light physical demands (mostly cash loading and machine checks) and flexible scheduling. It can be scaled to match their desired activity level and provides supplemental retirement income without requiring daily high-effort work.

An ATM machine business is low effort at first. Most new ATM business owners start with just one or two machine placements. But it is completely possible to scale to 10 or more machines making ATM operation a full-time, flexible, low-effort gig! Just like de Anda, if you find that you enjoy the flexibility of an ATM side hustle, make it your goal to replace your regular 9-5 desk job.

Benefits of an ATM Business

It’s getting harder and harder for many people to make ends meet for many people. Let alone are they able to save money or travel. For those reasons, side hustles are projected to increase. If you’ve been looking for a way to make some extra money without the demands of a second in-person job that takes you away from your family and fills all of your free time, consider operating an ATM. 

An ATM machine generates semi-passive income. That means that once it’s all set up, it will make money while you’re away. Simply keep it loaded and operational, and you’re in business. To find out exactly how much you can make with just one machine, check out our article on how much ATM business owners make.

Ready to get started? Get your free ATM start-up kit today!