Banks and credit unions typically offer remote deposit services that allow you to deposit checks via an app on your mobile phone instead of going into a branch.
While it might seem like physical checks have been replaced with debit cards and online transactions, they are still used millions of times each day. In 2022, 12 billion checks were written in the U.S., according to the Federal Reserve*– more than 32 million for every day of the year.
Chances are you will get a check occasionally, even if it’s just birthday money from your grandma. This article covers how to deposit a check, whether you’re at a physical bank location or using your mobile phone.
Key Takeaways
- The traditional method of depositing a check involves going to your bank’s physical branch and working with a teller to deposit the funds into your account.
- Nowadays, most banks and credit unions offer remote deposit services that allow you to deposit checks via an app on your mobile phone.
- Some of the most common mistakes people make when depositing a check involve forgetting to endorse it, endorsing it incorrectly or failing to provide the necessary documentation.
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How To Deposit a Check at a Bank
The traditional way to deposit a check is to do so with the help of a teller at a physical bank or credit union. In most cases, you’ll need to go to a branch where you hold an account. A bank may also cash a check for a non-account holder, for a fee.
To avoid inconvenience, it’s easiest to deposit a check at the institution that holds your bank account. Along with the check you want to deposit, you’ll usually need to provide a photo I.D. and/or a deposit slip for the account you want to deposit the check into (e.g., your checking account or savings account). Follow these steps to deposit the check:
- Gather documents: Collect the check you want to deposit, photo I.D., your debit card (having it can speed up the process) and a deposit slip (if you don’t have one, most banks will provide one).
- Double-check the information: Make sure the check is made out to you (with your name spelled correctly) and that the amount is correct. Check that the numerical amount matches the spelled-out amount.
- Fill out a deposit slip: Add the date and the dollar amount of the check and your account number if necessary.
- Endorse the check: Sign your name where indicated on the back of the check.
- Work with a teller: Bring the endorsed check and deposit slip to a teller. They may ask for your photo I.D. and/or your debit card to access your account. Tell them whether you want to deposit the entire check or receive part of the amount in cash.
- Get your receipt: The teller should provide you with a receipt for the deposit. It’s a good idea to keep it until the funds are in your account (which may take a few business days).
How To Deposit a Check at an ATM
If you don’t want to talk to a teller, you can usually deposit a check at an ATM (automated teller machine). You usually need to have a debit card or ATM card to deposit a check. Here’s the process to deposit a check at an ATM:
- Find the right ATM: Not all ATMs accept check deposits or serve customers from all banks. Additionally, you may have to pay a fee to use an ATM that doesn’t belong to your bank – or your deposit may be rejected altogether. Contact your bank or credit union to locate an ATM you can use to deposit a check and learn more about any potential fees.
- Gather the necessary items: You’ll need your debit or ATM card along with the check you want to deposit. You also need to know your PIN (personal identification number) to access your account. You might need to use a deposit envelope, although not all ATMs require this. Machines that require envelopes generally have them available.
- Check all the info: Make sure the check is made out to you with your name spelled correctly and that the amount is correct.
- Endorse the check: Follow your bank’s instructions for endorsing a check. You’ll need to sign your name on the back of the check where indicated. You may also need to write your account number on the check.
- Follow the instructions: An ATM usually tells you exactly what to do on the screen. Some machines may have slightly different processes, but the general steps to deposit a check are as follows:
- Insert your debit/ATM card.
- Enter your PIN.
- Select the transaction you want to complete (i.e., deposit a check).
- Choose the account where you want to deposit the check.
- Enter the amount of the check (if prompted to do so).
- Insert the check into the slot indicated.
- Verify that the dollar amount on the screen is correct.
- Follow the remaining prompts to deposit the check.
- Take the deposit receipt and your card with you when you leave.
How To Deposit a Check Online
Most banks now allow their customers to deposit a check online via a mobile banking app. Check whether your bank offers a mobile app and whether that app allows mobile check deposits. Some banks have deposit limits for mobile transactions. If your bank does allow you to deposit a check via a mobile app, follow these steps:
- Download the app: Make sure you have the official app for your bank or credit union on your mobile phone.
- Log in: Follow the app’s instructions to log in to your account. If it’s a new account, you may need to set up your login credentials
- Choose “deposit check”: Select the app’s option for depositing a check.
- Endorse your check: Make sure to follow your bank’s instructions for endorsing the check. You might need to write something like “for mobile deposit only” under your signature.
- Take photos: Allow the app to access your phone’s camera to take a picture of the check, front and back. Most apps will provide instructions for photographing your check.
- Add information: Enter the check amount and any other required information.
- Confirm the deposit: Once you’ve completed all the steps, follow the prompts in the app to complete the transaction. Write down the confirmation number or request an email receipt.
- Hold on to the check: It can take a few days for the money to arrive in your bank account. Keep the check until all of the funds arrive in your account.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Depositing Checks
Even a minor mistake can prevent you from receiving the funds from a check, make the process take longer or compromise the security of your bank account. Avoid these errors:
- Incorrect endorsem*nt: Follow your bank’s exact instructions for signing your name, and make sure to include any additional text, such as “for mobile deposit.” If a check is made out to multiple account holders, they may all be required to endorse it.
- Security issues: Use an ATM in a well-lit area. Never write down your PIN — memorize it. Enable multi-factor authentication for your bank’s mobile app and/or use biometric security features.
- Blurry pictures: Take clear, complete photos of both sides of a check for mobile deposit.
The Bottom Line: How To Deposit Checks
Although cards and cashless transactions are increasingly popular, paper checks are still used every day. If you receive a physical check, you’ll need to deposit it into your bank account to access the funds.
Many banks and credit unions offer multiple methods for depositing checks, such as going to a physical branch, accessing an ATM or using a mobile app. The exact steps to deposit a check vary depending on the financial institution and the deposit method. In general, however, you’ll need to endorse it and confirm the account number you want the funds to go to. Follow your bank’s exact instructions to deposit your check.
FAQ: How To Endorse a Check for Mobile Deposit
If a check is issued to you and another person, such as your spouse, your bank may require that both of you sign the check before you deposit it. If it is issued to you or your spouse, you can typically deposit the check yourself.
If a check is made out to your business rather than your name, you can endorse the check on behalf of your company. You’ll need to write the name of the business and your company title on the back of the check, and then sign your name.
Mobile banking can be as secure as banking in person as long as you take measures to keep your personal information on your device safe.
Depending on the amount of your check, it may clear in one to three business days. However, your bank can hold a deposit for several reasons, such as account activity, past unpaid checks or frequent overdrafts, but there is a maximum hold period by federal law.
*Source: Federal Reserve
Editor’s Note: Before making significant financial decisions, consider reviewing your options with someoneyou trust, such as a financial adviser, credit counselor or financial professional, since every person’s situation and needs are different.
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