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How to Start ATM Machine Business in 2025

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How to start ATM machine business in 2025? Well, not much has changed in the past few years. The ATM machine business is a pretty stable, reliable business model that doesn’t involve a huge learning curve. You don’t need any specific education, training, or certification to get started. 

Resolving to be healthy, wealthy, and wise this new year? Don’t wait for good fortune—make it. Make the wise decision to generate some semi-passive wealth. If you want to get into the ATM industry, we can tell you how to start ATM machine business in just a few simple steps.

There is a lot of information out there about the best way to start an ATM machine business. So we’ll break it down into a few simple steps and provide you with information you’ll need to keep up with current trends and evolving technology.

How to Start ATM Machine Business in 2025 in 5 Simple Steps

Step 1: Choose Equipment

The first step in how to start ATM machine business is to select your machine. You can purchase your machine from anywhere, really. But you have to keep in mind that you cannot simply purchase a machine and be in business. That machine must be connected to credit card networks, and that can only happen through a processing company.

So, it might be best to purchase your equipment from an ATM company that serves as a vendor as well as a processor. That way, you know that the equipment you purchase is compliant (more on this later) and will connect to the processing networks. 

Step 2: Paperwork and Contracts

Second, you’ll need to complete the necessary paperwork and contracts. Don’t be daunted, though. It’s really quite basic and nothing more than you’d need to start any new job or business venture.

You’ll need to provide a copy of your driver’s license, complete a background check, and submit an ACH form. This ensures that you are legally allowed to own an ATM business and lets the ATM company know where to deposit your revenue!

And, just like any other “job”, you’ll need to complete a W-9 form for tax purposes as well as any other contracts or documents required by the ATM company who will process your transactions. For example, the ATM company will need documentation of what denominations you plan to dispense and how much you plan to surcharge. This can always be changed, so don’t worry. Once you’re in business, you’ll get a better idea of what you need to service your customers. 

Step 3: Find a Location

This is the fun part. We can give you all the advice in the world, but when it comes down to it, you really know best. The best locations really depend on where you’re located. Where is there a gap in the market? What businesses do you already have a good relationship with who might benefit from ATM services? What locations are convenient for you to commute to?

These are all factors when it comes to choosing locations to partner with for ATM placements. But, of course, it comes down to a little bit of research on your part. What locations need ATM service? What locations are unhappy with their current provider or just need an upgrade? These are prime opportunities for you.

Then, once you find a location that is interested in partnering with you, you will want to develop a contract that meets the needs of both parties. Part of your startup paperwork will include a placement agreement that stipulates a number of policies. Will you share the surcharge revenue? Who is responsible for vaulting? Who will be providing the internet connection? What happens if one party wants out of the contract? These are all clauses you’ll want to consider in a contract between yourself and the location owner.

Step 4: Choose Your Surcharge

A major part of operating an ATM business is setting your surcharge fee. This is the fee that users pay to use your machine out-of-network from their own bank network. This is how you make money from your machine. This fee is increasing across the country, so anywhere from $3-$5 is becoming the standard. 

However, it’s a good idea to gauge the fees in your area to make sure you’re offering a competitive rate. It doesn’t make any sense, for example, to set a $4 surcharge fee if the ATM down the street offers ATM service for $3 a transaction. Alternatively, if the ATM down the street offers a $4 surcharge fee, you stand to make a lot more in just quantity if you offer a $3 surcharge fee.

Step 5: Install Your Machine

Once you have your equipment and location chosen, you can install! Installation is fairly simple. You can do it yourself or, if you choose, can hire a technician to install it for you. The most important installation tip is to bolt your machine down! Making sure that your equipment doesn’t budge is a huge deterrent to thieves.  

Your equipment can come pre-programmed. But if it isn’t, this is also something you can easily take care of yourself either with the help of a user manual, technician call, or video. Once you’re installed and programmed to communicate with the network, you’re in business and ready to make money!

How to Start ATM Machine Business in 2025: What’s Changed

Every year, there are advancements in technology, innovative solutions, and regulations and laws you must abide by. Existing ATM machine business owners know that it is their responsibility to keep up with these changes from year to year. 

But as a new ATM machine business owner, you simply need to be sure that all of the information you receive regarding how to start ATM machine business is relevant, up-to-date, and compliant. Here are some areas to consider:

Regulatory Updates and Compliance

Regulations are always changing no matter what industry you’re in. For the ATM industry, this might apply to accessibility and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Or it could apply to payment card industry (PCI) which involves ATM PIN pads and data encryption. 

Furthermore, the rise of cryptocurrency ATMs has attracted regulatory attention due to concerns over money laundering and compliance with financial laws. Operating such machines requires strict adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, and non-compliance can lead to legal actions.

In other words, ATM equipment you purchase and how you set it up matters and might change from year to year. But you don’t have to worry. There are a number of trusted resources available to guide you including your ATM company. It is their job to ensure that operators they contract with are fully compliant—that is, if you work with a reputable ATM company. 

Technological Advancements

Technology is always changing, too. Newer ATM technology is typically more user friendly, both for the operator and the customer, which is a benefit of purchasing the newest equipment you can afford.

Customers trust equipment that looks sleek, clean, and, well, functional. Moreover, the more convenient ATM features are, the more likely customers are to use it over competing machines. That equates to more transactions and more revenue for you. 

The market is experiencing a shift towards smart ATMs equipped with features like mobile integration, biometric authentication, and cash recycling capabilities. These advancements enhance user experience and operational efficiency, making them a competitive choice for new ATM deployments.

There’s also a growing trend towards ATMs that support contactless and cardless transactions, allowing users to initiate withdrawals using mobile apps or biometric data. Implementing such features can attract tech-savvy customers seeking convenience. 

A decline in physical cash usage could influence your business. However, while cash usage may decline, ATM service is still something consumers need and expect. Just because there are more payment options now doesn’t mean no one uses cash. It is still necessary and convenient in a number of situations. 

And while ATM fees are rising, that just goes to show that there is more money to be made in the industry. Whether you meet the market standard or offer a competitively low surcharge fee, chances are that customers will pay it for convenience’s sake, and that’s good for business.

Security

The more safeguards that are put into place, the more creative criminals get. When one barrier arises, a new breach is invented. Therefore, it is important to remain aware of innovative ATM attacks, tampering tactics, and potential points of a breach so that you can be proactive in preventing and closely monitoring your machines. 

You can’t spot tampering if you don’t know what to look for, and you can’t protect your machine if you can’t predict how someone might attack it. Vigilance is the most important thing you can do when it comes to ATM security. So you need to remain educated about what to look for and actions to take in response.

Tips for How to Start ATM Machine Business in 2025

As you work to start your ATM machine business in 2025, follow these simple tips to ensure you minimize mistakes and maximize success:

First, keep yourself informed of changing regulations. Regularly consult with ATM industry news sources and updates from your ATM company to ensure you remain compliant with the latest standards. 

Second, if your budget allows, invest in advanced technologies. Consider deploying smart ATMs with features like contactless transactions and biometric authentication to meet evolving consumer preferences.

Third, assess market demand. This might mean finding the most lucrative location or simply understanding regional cash usage trends so that you can adapt your business model accordingly. 

Finally, never compromise on security. Implement robust security protocols to protect against fraud and comply with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, especially if dealing with digital currencies.

By staying knowledgeable of these developments and adapting your business strategy, you can position your ATM business for success in the evolving financial landscape of 2025. Ready to get started? ATMDepot.com can help. Get your free ATM startup kit or contact us today! Check out our complete guide on how to start an ATM business for beginners here. 

Happy new year! We at ATMDepot.com wish you health, wealth, and wisdom. It’s in your hands now!

The Gift that Keeps on Giving: Give Yourself the Gift of an ATM Machine Business

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If anyone is wondering what to get me for Christmas, I’m a size ATM machine business. 

With the holidays right around the corner, it’s easy to get overwhelmed trying to find the perfect gift for those special people in your life. But it’s important not to neglect self-care. It might even be more important than ever. After all, is anyone else going to gift you an ATM machine business?

Keep reading to learn more about the psychological and emotional motivations behind self-gifting and the ongoing benefits of an ATM machine business.

Why Self-Gift?

Self-gifting is not sad. Actually, it helps boost self-esteem. Our culture is embracing, normalizing, and encouraging the practice of self-care due to the number of psychological and emotional benefits. Self-gifting eases stress, promotes relaxation, and enhances feelings of wellbeing. According to CivicScience, 42% of Americans plan to buy themselves a holiday gift this year.

It’s okay to think of ourselves sometimes. We spend most of our time concerned about the wellbeing of others (partners, children, colleagues), so when we slow down and think about ourselves, that pressure is alleviated if only for a moment. 

Humans thrive on recognition and positive reinforcement. But, frankly, all of that typically ends once we grow up and become adults. No more awards for perfect attendance. No more pizza parties for stellar test scores. As responsible adults, we must contribute to the workforce, do our civic duties, and raise healthy families. But we are also responsible for our own wellbeing. Arguably, no one can nurture that better than ourselves.

Reasons People Self-Gift

Self-gifting can be an act of self-love, promoting mental and emotional wellbeing. It’s a way to nurture oneself and practice self-compassion.

Self-gifting is a way to reward our achievements, and we get to define those however we want. It might be after reaching a personal or professional milestone or a form of recognition and motivation for future accomplishments. 

Maybe that milestone is a savings goal or other exercise in self-restraint. After waiting, saving, or working toward something, self-gifting can be a satisfying reward for patience and discipline. 

Self-gifting is also a way to celebrate independence, especially after significant life changes like a breakup or a new chapter in life. The ability to buy oneself a gift can reflect financial independence and personal agency, which can be empowering.

Birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions are the perfect opportunities to recognize yourself. As an adult, no one is sending you birthday card money anymore. So it’s up to you to celebrate yourself! After all, only you know what you really want anyway, right?

Buying a gift for yourself can mark a journey of personal growth or symbolize self-appreciation for becoming a better version of yourself. It can also be a way of acknowledging your perseverance through a challenging time.

Self-gifting is associated with self-empowerment and mindfulness, fostering a healthier relationship with oneself. Of course, it is most effective when done in moderation—you want it to be special. 

And what if you could gift yourself something that would continue to benefit you, that actually earned you more than what you paid for it? Wouldn’t that be special! An ATM machine business might be just the thing.

Ways to Treat Yourself

So what does self-gifting look like? Is it a specialty coffee after a grueling grocery trip? Is it those kicks you’ve had your eye on? A long overdue vacation? 

Self-gifting can take many forms, ranging from small indulgences to more significant investments in yourself.

One of the most common indulgences is a nice dinner or a night out with friends. But it can be even simpler, like treating yourself to a rare treat or dessert or premium coffee or adult beverage to enjoy at home.

Sometimes, you just need to shop to decompress. Retail gifts can include clothing, jewelry, or even tech gadgets. But gifts can come in the form of experiences, too. Treat yourself to a spa visit, travel, or a concert or show. 

Self-care can also include hobbies. Time is, after all, one of our most valuable resources. Dedicate some time to journaling, reading, or other creative projects. Start a workout routine or attend a wellness or fitness class—good for mind, body, and spirit!

Heck, while we’re talking mind, body, and spirit, how about some rest? Take a personal day to rest or enjoy without obligations. Consider a digital detox, unplugging to give yourself some mental space.

Finally, consider investing in yourself. Take an online course, learn new skills, or develop professionally if that is an area of your life you’d like to enhance. 

Now, while self-gifting typically requires spending some money, an ATM is an investment that can offer you a return. Is there any better gift than financial freedom?

Why an ATM Machine Business Is the Gift that Keeps on Giving

An ATM machine business is one of the simplest ways to generate semi-passive income. The main startup cost is the equipment itself, and it immediately starts paying for itself when you’re connected and in business! Once you’ve made your return on your investment, you can start to profit from your little machine. 

All it takes is some initial planning and setup, a little ongoing maintenance and monitoring, and your ATM machine business makes money while you sleep! Have you ever received a gift that can do that?

An ATM machine business is not just a gift. It’s an investment in yourself and your future. What could you do with an extra $1,000 a month? We’re sure you’ll think of something….

ATMDepot makes getting started a breeze. We’ve got all of the experience, resources, and ongoing support you need from step 1 to scaling your business! You don’t need any specific education or certification. Come as you are! 

If you are interested in making an extra few hundred dollars a month while you do other things, invest in an ATM machine. Why not? It’s Christmas! The new year is right around the corner. This could be the next step in achieving your financial goals next year.

Request a FREE startup kit today! Questions? Contact us at ATMDepot.com.

And, hey, that ATM machine business looks good on you 😉

How Does an ATM Business Work: Top 15 Questions New ATM Business Owners Ask

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So you want to be an ATM owner. But how does an ATM business work? You will want to know what to expect before you get started. And, if you’ve already gotten started, you might have some specific questions about what to do next.

You’re not alone. Here, we’ve compiled the top 15 questions new ATM business owners ask. 

Setup and Startup

1. Do I need any licenses or permits to operate an ATM?

You do not need a specific license to operate an ATM business, but you will need some sort of business name to complete the agreement with the ATM processor as your ATM vendor and to open a business bank account. 

You can establish a limited liability company (LLC) to separate your personal assets from your business liabilities. Or, the simplest and most common route among new IADs is to create a sole proprietorship and operate under a fictitious business name, or a DBA—doing business as. 

2. How do I choose a good location for an ATM?

High foot traffic areas like convenience stores, bars, malls, or near public transportation hubs are ideal. If you want your machine to make money, it’s got to be in a place where the most people see and use it. However, you will also want a location where there is the largest need for ATM service. This might be shopping centers, cash-only venues, or anywhere that is currently lacking ATM access. People will pay more for convenience.

You might want to start where you have already built a relationship. Any businesses you frequently visit will be easier to negotiate than colder leads. Regardless, the process is the same. Get in touch with the business owner, introduce yourself, pitch your offer, list the benefits, and provide your contact information. 

Offer a share of surcharge profits or other incentives to secure prime locations. You can also simply request a referral. If one business owner isn’t interested but knows someone who might be, locations that are seeking ATM service or want to change providers are easy ins! 

For more ideas, check out our list of some of the best ATM locations.

3. How much cash do I need to stock an ATM?

This depends on location demand, but typically $2,000 is a starting point. You might be able to get away with $1,000 if you have a tight budget, but keep in mind that the less money you load, the more frequently you might have to visit the bank and the machine to reload cash. This can create more work for you and cut into your profit. Monitor the transaction activity on your machine and stock as necessary depending on the cash needs of your customers.

Tech and Operation

4. Do I need to own the cash I put into the ATM?

Most independent ATM operators use their own cash unless they partner with a vault cash provider. Using your own cash saves you money on a cash vaulting service. Your ATM service provider will settle the ATM funds to your ATM business bank account from which you withdraw those same funds to restock the machine.

5. What software or services are required to run the ATM?

How does an ATM business work without software and credit card network connection? It doesn’t. You can’t simply purchase and place an ATM machine to operate your business. You’ll need ATM processing services to connect your machine to banking networks for transactions.

6. How often do I need to refill the ATM?

This depends on transaction volume and the cash capacity of the machine. High-traffic locations may require daily or weekly refills. Since weekends are typically high transaction days, it might be a good idea to refill the machine on a Thursday or Friday. 

Try to avoid refilling the machine at the same time every day. Keeping an unpredictable schedule will keep you and your vault cash safe from anyone who might be watching.

7. What if the ATM breaks down or has technical issues?

Most maintenance you can easily conduct yourself. For more complex problems, simply contact your ATM provider or other ATM technician for help. Consult the manual for your machine when necessary, and check YouTube for how-to videos to save yourself time and money hiring someone else. 

Know your machine well by monitoring the activity. That way you can identify errors and anomalies more quickly. The faster you resolve an issue, the less time you spend out of business, and the more money you make. This is where 24/7 customer support really comes in handy. But there are some common error codes you can quickly handle yourself.

8. How secure is my ATM from theft or fraud?

Your ATM machine is really no more vulnerable than any cash register anywhere. You simply need to remain vigilant and aware of potential threats. Just like you know where your purse or wallet is at all times or analyze your bank statements, secure your machine and monitor its activity.

Simple barriers can deter vandalism, theft, and tampering. Make sure your machine is firmly bolted to the ground. Keep a straight, clear path to the machine open for customers, but block the sides with furniture or displays to minimize physical and logical attempts to access the hardware and software. 

Keep your machine under surveillance. Whether it is always in view of a location employee or in the line of security cameras, advertising this kind of monitoring can deter criminals as well as reassure customers of their safety. 

Know your machine well. You don’t want someone to install a pinhole camera or fake front to your machine that would compromise customer account data. Regularly inspect your machine to ensure that it hasn’t been tampered with. The most important thing you can do is be vigilant. 

Finance and Profit

9. How do ATM owners make money?

For independent ATM deployers, most revenue comes from surcharge fees charged per transaction and, in some cases, a portion of interchange fees. Surcharge fees vary by location but typically range from $2 to $4 per transaction. 

How does an ATM business work if you don’t own and operate your own machines? Site locators who negotiate with location owners on behalf of ATM owners can request a flat rate or negotiate for a share of the surcharge. ATM vendors can mark up the price of ATM equipment to earn an upfront commission and/or keep a share of the surcharge for servicing the machine. And ATM vaulters can create a fee schedule that calculates rates based on distance and frequency.

10. How profitable is an ATM business?

Profitability depends on location, transaction volume, and operational costs. Some ATMs earn $300–$1,000+ per month. But remember that your profit is surcharge revenue less operating costs.

Most IADs expect to make an annualized return of 35%-70% or more. With just one machine, you can make a few hundred dollars a month. If you want to make thousands of dollars, plan to scale your business by adding more machines to your route.

Check out these formulas and calculators to help set the right surcharge fee and estimate your revenue.

11. What are the ongoing fees or costs?

Ongoing costs will include internet service, insurance, maintenance, and travel. 

While you can simply connect to and use the location’s internet service provider (ISP), you have much more control over your ATM operation if you purchase your own wireless device. The minimal cost is worth the benefits. If the location loses service for any reason, you are at their mercy and might not have control over communication with the ISP. In the meantime, your machine will be out of service and you’ll miss out on those transactions.

It is a good idea to purchase at least limited liability insurance. And some locations might require this as part of your agreement. It is relatively cheap and typically covers bodily injury, property damage, medical payments, and legal defense.

Maintenance costs might include service calls or replacement parts. You should also make sure you regularly clean the machine. Purchase a gentle cleaner to wipe down the machine. Replace any worn decals, and address any signs of vandalism as applicable.

Finally, depending on the number of locations you service and their distance from your home, you might consider fuel or other travel costs. 

Growth and Expansion

Yes, many operators expand their business by managing multiple machines in different locations. After you get comfortable with your first one, start scouting out other locations!

12. Can I operate multiple ATMs? 

The more machines you operate, the more money you stand to make. However, don’t create more work than you can manage. You always want to be able to provide good service to your locations to maintain a positive professional reputation.

Trends include mobile wallet compatibility, cryptocurrency transactions, and enhanced security features. Monitoring trends in the ATM industry is crucial for staying competitive, maximizing profitability, and ensuring the longevity of your business.

14. How do I monitor my ATM transactions and performance?

Your ATM processing company should set you up with online monitoring tools. This gives you access to a dashboard where you can, and should, track transactions, identify trends, meet cash needs, and watch out for unusual activity. 

15. Can I integrate additional services like bill pay or mobile recharges?

How does an ATM business work as people use cash less than digital payments? Well, some ATMs support additional financial services to increase usage and profits. Services might include utility bill payments, mobile phone recharges, money transfers, and gift card purchases.

First, determine if there’s a need for these services in your ATM’s location. Then, ensure your ATM model supports software updates or has the hardware capabilities for additional features. 

Find a processing partner that offers these services. Consider integration compatibility with your current ATM setup, service fees or revenue-sharing models, and customer support and troubleshooting assistance.

How Does an ATM Business Work: Now You Know

ATMDepot is a one-stop shop for your ATM business needs. You can purchase equipment, set up processing, and receive ongoing support and 24/7 customer service.

So how does an ATM business work? We hope we’ve answered your questions. If we missed anything, don’t hesitate to contact us!

How to Start an ATM Machine Business: Requirements and Process

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In this article, we’ll tell you how to start an ATM machine business. However, this time we will focus on the requirements and process. So at this stage, you should already know what to expect from an ATM business. You’re sure that it is something you want to do. You might even already have equipment and a location.

If that’s the case, you are ready to officially get started. So what’s the first step? 

Starting an ATM machine business does not necessarily require a set of steps to be completed in an exact order. Not every independent ATM deployer goes about starting an ATM business in the same way. And some “steps” can be completed concurrently.

However, when it’s all said and done, there are some things aside from purchasing an ATM machine you’ll need to do to get up and running. Here’s what that looks like: 

Find a Processing Company

To start an ATM business as an independent ATM deployer (IAD), you need an ATM machine. Now, there are a lot of ways to get your hands on one. However, you can’t just purchase an ATM machine from anywhere and set yourself up in business. Your machine won’t work unless you find a processing company to connect your ATM machine to the card networks.

Can you purchase an ATM machine from anywhere? Essentially, yes. But you then need to find a processing company. Fortunately, many ATM vendors also offer processing. So you don’t have to look very far.

The processing company will help make sure your ATM machine is registered, legal, and compliant. This will require some paperwork. You need to know how to start an ATM machine business the right way so that you remain compliant with the law.

Complete Paperwork

First, you will need to provide your driver’s license to prove your identity and pass a background check. This will guarantee that you are legally allowed to run an ATM business. The banking network does not allow anyone convicted of a felony or financial crime to run an ATM business. However, you can get around this by working with a trusted friend or family member and putting the business in his or her name instead.

Your ATM provider should help ensure that you meet all federal government requirements to legally operate an ATM business. With the right ATM provider, the process should be quick and easy.

ATM Processing Agreements

Once it is certain that you meet all compliance requirements, you need to complete your equipment order form. This will indicate what equipment you want to purchase. However, if you’ve already purchased equipment from somewhere else, you will still need to indicate the cash denomination(s) you want to dispense and the surcharge fee you want to charge. This allows your machine to be programmed properly and the appropriate funds to be deposited to your bank account. 

Other documentation your ATM provider will need before you get started includes an ACH form, W-9, ATM operator agreement application, ATM processing agreement, and a voided business check.

An ACH form documents your account information. You will need to provide account and routing numbers and give permission to have funds electronically transferred to your account. And since you will be earning revenue from your ATM machine, you will need to complete a W-9 form to report residuals for tax purposes.

Your ATM application is also known as the ATM Operator Agreement. This form tells banking partners who they are working with and makes sure all federal regulations are met. The ATM processing agreement, on the other hand, lists your rights and obligations as the ATM owner as well as the rights and obligations of the ATM processor. This will be the legal contract between you and the ATM processor that runs your ATM machine program. This contract also ensures your payment as agreed upon.

Finally, a voided business check verifies the legitimacy of your linked account. Your linked account must be a checking account, not a savings account. 

Get an ATM Business Bank Account

You cannot use your personal bank account for vault cash or to deposit your surcharge revenue. You need a specific, dedicated bank account for your ATM business. For more detailed information about the nuanced process of opening an ATM business bank account, check out our article “The Best Banks for ATM Business”. 

One of the most common questions people ask is how to start an ATM machine business without an LLC. While you can operate your ATM machine as an LLC or corporation, the most common route is to register as a sole proprietor under a “doing business as” (DBA) business name. Then, you can open your bank account under that.

Some ATM processors will license you the rights to use their name as part of your company name. This will of course require additional paperwork and a fee for usage rights. However, the nominal fee is often worth the instant credibility. You gain trust by associating your business with one that’s more established and well-known.

You can start inquiring with your local banks about their experience managing ATM business bank accounts before you complete your official ATM paperwork. This way you already have an idea of where to take your business. But you will want to have the above contracts and agreements finalized before sitting down with your banker. That way, you show that you are serious and ready to do business. You will need to be prepared with copies of your contracts when opening the account.

Secure a Location

The same is true of securing a location. You can scout for a location at any point in the process of starting an ATM business. You might want to be sure you will have a place to put the machine once you order it. But again, waiting until you have all of your contracts and agreements in place before meeting with a location owner with your proposal will increase your chances of getting someone to work with you. 

In “Choosing an ATM Location: 9 Best Locations for ATM Machines,” we describe in depth the process of choosing the right location for your ATM machine. Then, when you are ready to close the deal with a location owner, you will want to have a site location agreement (SLA) drawn up and signed. 

Also known as an ATM business contract or placement agreement, the SLA is a documented agreement between you—the ATM owner—and the proprietor or merchant where the ATM will be placed. When you use someone else’s business or space to house your ATM machine, you will need more than a verbal agreement. 

The SLA details the ins and outs of the ATM placement and operation. This protects you if you ever have any issues working with the third party. It might include clauses that cover the responsibilities of each party, revenue split/share, length of effectiveness of the agreement, etc.

You can work with a lawyer to create a personalized contract or agreement, write your own from scratch, or use one of our templates at ATMDepot.com if you become a member. You can also find scripts there for pitching and selling your idea to business owners you’d like to work with to get them on board!

Install and Program

When all of the above is in place, you are ready to install and program your machine for use! Again, there is not just one way to do this. For example, you might have your ATM equipment delivered to your house and then move it to the location yourself. Or, you might have your ATM vendor ship the equipment straight to the location. It depends on the order you complete the process. 

Furthermore, your machine might come pre-programmed from the manufacturer or vendor, or you might end up doing it yourself. You might install the machine yourself as well, or you might hire this out. 

Regardless of what this part looks like for you, just know that it is possible to program and install the machine yourself if necessary. These “7 ATM Installation Tips” can help. It will cost extra to have someone do either or both for you, but it might be worth it for peace of mind. 

This is the final step. Once your machine is bolted in place and programmed to dispense your chosen denomination for the surcharge fee you set, you are ready to do business!

How to Start an ATM Machine Business

To summarize, there are a few things you need to have in place to officially begin making money from your ATM business. You need to get compliant with paperwork and set up an ATM business bank account. You need to determine surcharge fee, cash denomination, and revenue share (how much goes into which accounts). And you need to make sure you are protected with an SLA.

If you want to know everything there is to know about how to start an ATM machine business all in one place, check out the ATM Business Road Map. Because there is not one way to start an ATM business, you do not have to wait until you complete the course to get started. Just refer to the information as you go! Learning from an ATM business mentor is the best way to get from A to Z as quickly as possible and with minimal mistakes. Try it risk free and get started today!

ATM Cash Machine Business vs. Vending Machine: Which Is a Better Side Hustle?

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An ATM cash machine business and a vending machine business are two side hustle options that can earn you a semi-passive income. So which one is better? 

At the end of the day, it is up to you and your personal goals, experience, and comfortability that will affect your decision. However an ATM cash machine business can be a simpler venture in many ways. Here, we’ll provide you with a side-by-side look at some considerations of each.

Why Are ATM Cash Machine Business and Vending Machine Business Good Side Hustles?

An ATM cash machine business and a vending machine business are similar in many ways. Both businesses involve the purchase, placement, operation, and maintenance of one or more machines. 

Compared to traditional retail businesses, ATM cash machines and vending machines typically have lower overhead costs. There is no storefront rent, utilities, or a large staff; just the equipment and product.

The success of each is dependent on the quality of the location. Finding a quality location requires research into the target demographic, market gaps, and amount of foot traffic.

Since there is no storefront rent, both businesses, therefore, require placement negotiations. You will have to partner with other business or location owners or renters by appealing to them with the extra service you can offer to their customers.

Additionally, both businesses offer semi-passive income. This means that you can be making money while you do other things: work another job, pursue hobbies, sleep…. But you will still have to monitor the activity on your machine, making sure it’s stocked, operational, and generating revenue.

Then, of course, there is ongoing maintenance for both. You might have to troubleshoot error codes, handle customer complaints, make sure the machine is clean and presentable, and address any tampering, vandalism, or damage.

However, while both an ATM cash machine business and a vending machine business involve automated transactions and generate revenue through user interactions, there are several important differences between the two.

Key Differences Between ATM Cash Machine Business and Vending Machine Business

Product Offering

The most obvious difference between an ATM cash machine business and a vending machine business is the product offering. One offers convenient access to cash while the other offers food and beverage. 

A vending machine business generates revenue based on the sale of the products it offers. An ATM cash machine generates revenue from a service fee, or a surcharge. Customers pay for access to the service, but they essentially receive that which already belongs to them. An ATM doesn’t sell anything per se.

An ATM cash machine business is simpler in this respect. The only “product” you work with is cash. The only metrics you need to monitor are how much cash is needed and at what times. This allows you to ensure that your ATM machine has enough cash to meet the demand during the times of highest need (maybe weekends, holidays, local events, etc.). 

There are a lot more factors to consider with a vending machine. For example, will you offer snacks or drinks? How much of a variety will you offer? Which product(s) sell more frequently than others? You need to strategically select and monitor the products that appeal most to your target demographic.

The same is true of an ATM cash machine business but on a much more limited scale. For example, most ATM machines offer a single denomination (20s), though you can opt for two denominations.

But that’s pretty much it. With an ATM cash machine business, your biggest stocking concerns are which denominations to offer and when the busiest cash-demand times of the month are.

Market and Placement

While product offering is limited to an ATM cash machine business, the placement options are more diverse. And that’s a good thing.

Vending machines are commonly placed in offices, schools, hospitals, gyms, and other public spaces. ATM cash machines, however, succeed wherever there is a need for cash. 

Vending machines typically require locations where large numbers of people congregate for a long duration of time. ATM cash machines do well in similar locations, like shopping centers, bars, and casinos. But they also do well in areas where people are simply passing by, like markets, convenience stores, and parking lots. 

ATM cash machines are also more versatile in that they can be placed indoors or outdoors. This offers 24/7 access to your service which allows you to make more money. 

Finally, ATM cash machines can be easier to place than vending machines. First of all, you aren’t limited to large venues that necessitate vending machines. You can appeal to salons, restaurants, and other small businesses which expands your options. 

And, business owners are motivated to add an ATM cash machine to their location for the benefits they’ll see in return. The added service can bring in more traffic, increase sales, and encourage cash payments which saves the company money on credit card transaction fees.

So while both businesses rely on placement negotiations with other businesses, the process and options vary greatly.

Regulatory Compliance

Just like any other business, an ATM cash machine business and vending machine business will have to comply with industry regulations. 

Operating a vending machine business may require adherence to various regulations and permits, depending on the location and types of products sold. Ensuring compliance with health, safety, and licensing requirements can add complexity and administrative burden.

ATM cash machines must meet regulation guidelines according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). But new machines are already designed to meet these requirements, so most of that burden is off your shoulders! All you need to do is make sure there is a clear path to the machine and that all functions are accessible.

Conclusion

While both vending machine and ATM businesses offer opportunities for generating passive income through automated transactions, they involve different products/services, target audiences, revenue models, and operational considerations. Carefully evaluate these factors to determine which type of business aligns best with your goals, resources, and risk tolerance.

An ATM cash machine business is simpler than a vending machine business in many ways which can make it a better side hustle. And what’s more is there is a risk-free training program available to you to get started in the ATM business from the ground up. 

If you want to start making money while you sleep, find out everything you need to know from ATMDepot.com’s own CEO and founder, Noah Weider with the ATM Business Road Map. With the right information, tips, and support, starting an ATM business has never been easier. Get started today!