An apparatus for processing documents of value having a checking device for checking documents of value in a processing area, an intermediate repository arranged in an intermediate area for intermediately storing documents of value, a transport device for transporting the documents of value to the intermediate repository, a final storage device for storing documents of value from the intermediate repository, an intermediate-area housing enclosing the intermediate area having a first opening that receives documents of value coming from the checking device, a second opening, through which the documents of value are transportable from the intermediate repository into the final storage area, and an intermediate-area housing element which can be moved back and forth between an open position, which allows access to the intermediate repository, and a close position, which prevents access to the intermediate-area housing, and a locking device for locking the intermediate-area housing element in the close position.