How to Start an ATM Business

Starting an ATM business is one of the most accessible and scalable ways to build passive income as an entrepreneur. The model is straightforward: you own ATM machines, place them in high-traffic locations, and collect a surcharge fee every time someone makes a withdrawal. Startup costs are low, there’s no storefront to run, no employees to manage, and you can start with a single machine.

ATM Money Machine has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs start ATM businesses over nearly 30 years. We provide everything you need to launch — the machines, in-house processing, sample contracts, marketing materials, and real one-on-one support from people who know this business inside and out.

ATM machine for starting an ATM business

Start Here: Your Step-by-Step ATM Business Guide

Watch the video for the complete walkthrough of how to start your own ATM business.

What Is an ATM Business and How Does It Work?

An ATM business, also known as an independent ATM deployer (IAD) business, involves owning one or more ATM machines placed at third-party business locations. You negotiate an agreement with each host business, install your machine, and collect the surcharge fee charged to customers who use it.

How Do ATM Owners Make Money?

Your revenue comes from the surcharge fee on each withdrawal. The national average surcharge is approximately $3.22. If your ATM processes 300 transactions a month at that rate, that’s about $966 in gross surcharge revenue from a single machine. If you’re paying the location owner $.75 per transaction, that’s $225 to them — leaving you with over $700 from that machine. Not every location will do 300 transactions a month, and your actual numbers will depend on foot traffic, surcharge level, and what you negotiate with the location.

How Much Can ATM Owners Earn?

Earnings vary based on the number of machines you operate, their locations, and transaction volumes. A single machine can bring in anywhere from $200 to $1,000 or more per month in surcharge revenue. Using the per-machine example above, an operator with five to ten well-placed machines can realistically net $1,500 to $7,000 or more per month, depending on traffic and location split.

Is an ATM Business Profitable in Year One?

Yes — for operators who choose good locations and stay on top of their machines. In year one, most operators focus on recouping their initial machine investment, which typically takes six to twelve months depending on transaction volume. Once the machine is paid off, the surcharge revenue is mostly yours — your ongoing costs are minimal.

How to Start an ATM Business Step by Step

Follow these nine steps to launch your first ATM business.

Step 1 — Learn the Business Before You Buy

Before you buy a machine, get a clear picture of what the ATM business involves: startup costs, profitable location types, surcharge revenue, and your day-to-day responsibilities as an operator.

Our step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process, and our team is available to answer your questions before you spend a dollar.

You’ll need enough capital to purchase your first machine and load it with cash. New ATMs start at $2,399, while used machines start at $1,599.

You’ll also typically need $1,500 to $4,000 to stock the machine, depending on expected transaction volume. Plan for at least $5,000 per location to cover the machine and initial cash supply. ATMs cannot be leased.

Location is the most important factor in ATM profitability. Look for businesses with consistent foot traffic, customers who regularly use cash, and limited access to an existing ATM. Bars, convenience stores, laundromats, entertainment venues, and retail shops are all strong candidates.

ATM Money Machine does not find locations for you—that is your responsibility as the operator. However, we provide marketing handouts that make it easier to explain the benefits of having an ATM to business owners.

See our guide to finding the best ATM placement locations for a detailed breakdown of what makes a location profitable.

A location agreement formalizes your arrangement with the host business. It explains the commission the business owner will receive, the terms of the agreement, and each party’s responsibilities. We provide sample contracts to every customer to help you create a fair and clearly defined agreement.

Some business owners do not request a commission. For those who do, our suggested sliding scale is:

• 0–200 surcharge transactions: $0.25 per transaction
• 201–400 surcharge transactions: $0.45 per transaction
• 401–700 surcharge transactions: $0.50 per transaction
• 701 or more surcharge transactions: $0.75–$1.00 per transaction

ATM processing connects your machine to the card networks and handles transaction routing and settlement. When you purchase an ATM from us, our in-house processing is included.

We establish your merchant ID and configure the processing before your machine ships, so it arrives ready to use. You may use either a personal or business bank account for ATM transactions. You also do not need an LLC or business entity to get started—the paperwork can be completed as an individual.

Every ATM needs access to a power outlet and a connection to the processing server. You have three connection options:

• Hardwired internet: The most reliable option. The ATM connects directly to the modem or an Ethernet jack. ATMs cannot connect to a business’s Wi-Fi.

• Phone line: A traditional connection method that is less commonly used today.

• ATM wireless box: A dedicated wireless solution that requires no internet or phone line from the business. The wireless box provides a secure signal specifically for ATM transactions.

Once you have secured a location, it is time to choose your machine. We carry new ATMs from Genmega, Hyosung, and Triton, along with used machines at a lower price point. Every machine ships fully pre-programmed and ready to process transactions.

New ATMs start at $2,399, and used machines start at $1,599. A used machine can be a smart entry point for a moderate-traffic location or a limited budget. For a high-traffic location where maximum reliability is important, consider purchasing a new machine.

Contact us, and we’ll help you compare your options and select the right ATM for your location.

Your ATM ships directly to the location fully pre-programmed. Once it arrives, plug it in, connect it to the processing network, load it with cash, and complete a test transaction.

Your machine includes a step-by-step guide and instructional videos explaining how to operate it. If you need help getting started, a video call with our team is also available at no charge. Most operators can have their ATM running in under 30 minutes.

We provide online monitoring that allows you to track transactions, cash levels, and machine status from any device. You can also receive text and email alerts when cash is running low or the machine reports an error.

Most ATM owners initially stock their machines with $1,500 to $4,000. Standard ATMs can hold between $16,000 and $20,000 in twenties, so loading more cash means fewer refill visits. The cash is recycled: customers withdraw it from the ATM, and the corresponding funds are deposited back into your bank account the next business day.

Once your first machine is profitable, you can scale by finding additional high-traffic locations, securing agreements, purchasing more machines, and repeating the process. Many operators begin with one ATM and eventually build routes containing 10, 20, or more machines.

How to Get an ATM Machine for Your Business

Choosing the right machine for your first location matters. Here are your main options:

Buy a New ATM Machine

A new ATM is ideal for operators who want maximum reliability and the latest technology. Every new machine includes a full factory warranty, with an optional lifetime warranty covering parts and labor.

New machines generally require less maintenance during their early years, and every component arrives in factory condition. We carry new ATMs from Genmega, Hyosung, and Triton.

Buy a Certified Used ATM Machine

A certified used ATM is an excellent option for first-time operators who want to reduce their initial investment.

Every used machine in our inventory is inspected, tested, and refurbished by our in-house technicians. Each machine is confirmed to be EMV-compliant, fully operational, and ready to deploy.

New vs. Used: Which Is Right for You?

If budget is your primary concern and your location has moderate traffic, a certified used ATM can be a smart entry point.

If you have secured a high-traffic location and want maximum reliability from the beginning, consider investing in a new machine. Contact our team, and we’ll help you compare the available options.

How Much Does It Cost to Own an ATM?

Your first-year costs include the ATM, the cash used to stock it, any commission paid to the location owner, and basic maintenance.

Used ATMs start at $1,599. New Genmega and Hyosung ATMs start at $2,399, while new Triton machines begin in the mid-$3,000s. Most owners initially stock their machines with $1,500 to $4,000 in cash.

How to Find the Best Locations for Your ATM Business

The quality of your locations determines the profitability of your ATM business. Here is how to identify and secure strong placements.

What Makes a Location Profitable?

Profitable ATM locations have consistent daily foot traffic, customers who regularly use cash, limited nearby ATM competition, and extended business hours.

The business owner should also be willing to promote the ATM and work with you. Generally, the more customers who visit the business each day, the more transactions your ATM can generate.

Best Business Types for ATM Placement

Convenience stores, bars and nightclubs, laundromats, entertainment venues, hotels, dispensaries, and busy retail shops are consistently strong ATM locations.

Avoid low-traffic offices, quiet residential areas, and businesses where customers rarely need cash. Always consider the location’s foot traffic, operating hours, customer habits, and existing ATM competition.

How to Pitch a Business Owner

When approaching a business owner, focus on what the ATM can do for their business. Explain that you will place, stock, and maintain the machine at no cost to them and that they can earn a commission from each transaction.

We also provide printable marketing handouts that explain the benefits of having an ATM and make your presentation more professional.

What to Include in a Location Agreement

Your location agreement should document the surcharge amount, commission paid per transaction, agreement length, renewal terms, and the process for ending the arrangement.

It should also explain each party’s responsibilities. As the ATM owner, you are generally responsible for stocking the cash and maintaining the machine. We provide sample location agreements to every customer.

Genmega ATMs

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Hyosung ATMs

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Triton ATMs

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How to Own an ATM Machine

Owning an ATM involves a few ongoing operational responsibilities. Here is what day-to-day ATM ownership looks like:

Loading Cash

You are responsible for keeping your ATM stocked with cash. Use the online monitoring portal to track cash levels and replenish the machine as needed. Plan your loading schedule around transaction volume so the ATM remains available during busy periods without requiring unnecessary trips.

Monitoring Your ATM in Real Time

Our real-time monitoring platform gives you instant visibility into your machine’s cash levels, transaction counts, and error status from any device. You’ll get text and email alerts when cash is running low or if there’s an error, so you can respond before it affects your revenue.

Maintaining and Servicing Your ATM

Basic ATM maintenance — cleaning the card reader, clearing paper jams, replacing receipt paper — is simple and you can handle it yourself. For anything more complex, our technician network is available to help. Learn more about our ATM maintenance services for ongoing support options.

Expanding Your ATM Route Over Time

Once your first machine is profitable, the path to scaling is straightforward. Identify additional high-traffic locations, secure agreements, purchase additional machines, and repeat the process. Many successful ATM business owners started with a single machine and built routes of 10, 20, or more machines over several years.

ATM Business Requirements and Legal Considerations

Starting an ATM business is relatively low-barrier from a regulatory standpoint, but there are some legal considerations to be aware of.

Do You Need a License to Start an ATM Business?

In most states, no specific license is required to operate as an independent ATM deployer. However, some states have registration or disclosure requirements. You will need a merchant ID, which we set up for you as part of the processing setup when you buy from us. Our team can point you to the relevant regulations for your state. It is always a good idea to consult with a local business attorney before you launch.

No. You don’t need an LLC or any business entity to buy an ATM or start operating — you can complete the paperwork as an individual and use a personal bank account for ATM transactions. If you want to set up an LLC, you can, but it’s not required.

As an ATM operator, your machine must comply with PCI DSS security standards and the EMV chip-card requirements set by the major card networks. All ATMs we sell are EMV-compliant, and our processing infrastructure is PCI DSS certified. We keep you updated on any compliance changes so you’re never caught off guard.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting an ATM Business

Learning from the mistakes of others is one of the fastest ways to accelerate your success. Here are the most common pitfalls we see new ATM operators make.

01

Choosing a Low-Traffic Location

The biggest mistake new ATM owners make is placing a machine where there is not enough foot traffic. A low-traffic location may generate fewer than 50 transactions per month, making it difficult to recover your investment. If a location underperforms, you can relocate the machine to a stronger site.

02

Underestimating Your Cash Loading Capital

A machine that processes 300 transactions a month at an average withdrawal of around $60 is dispensing roughly $4,500 a week. You don’t need $4,500 sitting in the machine at all times — remember, the cash customers withdraw gets deposited back to your bank account the next business day, so it recycles. But you do need enough loaded that the machine doesn’t run dry between your visits. Running out of cash on a busy night means lost revenue and frustrated customers.

03

Buying from the Wrong ATM Provider

Not all ATM vendors offer the same level of support after the sale. Buying a machine from a provider that offers no ongoing support, no processing assistance, and no maintenance resources can leave you stranded when problems arise.

04

Skipping a Location Agreement

Operating without a formal location agreement creates significant risk. A business owner can ask you to remove your machine at any time, leaving you without a placement and with a machine earning nothing.

Start Your ATM Business with ATM Money Machine

ATM Money Machine is a family-owned business founded by Larry Galvin in 1997 and now run alongside his daughter, Meghan Stamelos. For nearly 30 years, we have helped hundreds of entrepreneurs launch ATM businesses with the equipment, processing, tools, and personal support needed to succeed.

We are a long-term partner—not just a machine seller—and we maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Nearly 30 Years of ATM Industry Experience

We have helped hundreds of entrepreneurs build ATM businesses from the ground up. Our experience helps us anticipate the challenges you may face and guide you through them before they become problems.

Sample Contracts and Marketing Tools Included

Every customer receives sample location agreements, a commission structure guide, and marketing materials designed to help you approach business owners and secure profitable ATM placements.

In-House Processing

Our in-house processing is included with every ATM purchase. We configure your processing account before the machine ships and remain your processing partner for the life of the machine.

Real Support from Real People

When you need assistance, you reach a knowledgeable member of our team—not an outsourced call center. We provide answers from people who understand ATM ownership and the ATM business.

FAQs About Owning and Operating an ATM Business

How much money do I need to start an ATM business?

Plan for at least $5,000 per location — that covers the machine (new from $2,399, used from $1,599) plus the initial cash to stock it ($1,500 to $4,000 depending on the location).

Net earnings typically range from $200 to over $1,000 per month per machine, depending on transaction volume, surcharge amount, and any commission you pay the location. . High-traffic machines in premium locations can earn significantly more.

Most ATMs reach full payback within six to twelve months of consistent operation. A machine earning $300 per month net will pay back a $2,500 investment in roughly eight months.

Absolutely. You do not need to own a business to be an ATM owner. Most independent ATM deployers place machines in other people’s businesses. You own the machine, collect the surcharge revenue, and pay the host business a commission.

Contact our team to discuss your location and goals. We will help you choose the right machine, handle programming and processing setup, and ship it to you ready to deploy. The whole process from purchase to live machine typically takes less than two weeks.

No prior experience is required. The ATM business is one of the most beginner-friendly passive income models available. Our team provides the guidance, tools, and support you need to launch successfully even if you have never owned an ATM before.

Contact ATM Money Machine