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If you're holding a check and wondering about the easiest ways to deposit it, several options are available to make the process hassle-free. You can deposit a check via mobile deposit, at an ATM or by visiting your bank or credit union. Read on to learn more about these options, including how long you might have to wait before accessing your money.
Option 1: Use Mobile Check Deposit
Mobile check deposit is a convenient and increasingly popular method for depositing checks. With this option, you can deposit a check using a phone or tablet from the comfort of your home. Generally, when you deposit a check, it goes into your checking account. However, if you have a savings account that allows mobile deposits, you could also deposit the check directly into your savings account. Any account that allows check deposits should accept a mobile check deposit if it's set up to enable them.
Most banks and credit unions offer mobile banking apps that include the mobile check deposit feature. To complete a mobile check deposit, you can follow the steps below. However, each bank app might be a little different, so check with your bank if you run into challenges.
- Download and install your bank or credit union's mobile banking app: You can usually find the mobile banking app of your bank or credit union from the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Log in: Open the app and log in using your online banking credentials. You may need to set up an account if you're not already registered for online banking.
- Choose "mobile deposit": Once logged in, navigate to the mobile deposit section within the app. This option is usually prominently displayed on the main screen, but if you have issues finding it, a customer service rep or bank employee can walk you through it the first time.
- Enter check details: Follow the onscreen instructions to enter the check amount and select the account where you want to deposit the funds.
- Take photos: Use your smartphone's camera to capture clear photos of the front and back of the check. Make sure the check is properly endorsed by signing the back.
- Review and submit: Review the information you've entered and the images you've captured to ensure everything is accurate. Once everything looks good, submit the deposit.
The funds from a mobile check deposit are often made available within one to two business days. By law, at least $225 of your money should be available by the next business day, with the remainder accessible the following business day.
However, some banks may have a longer hold period, especially for larger checks or accounts with limited transaction history. Your bank or credit union has a cutoff time for what it considers the end of the business day. If you make a deposit after the cutoff time, the bank or credit union can treat your deposit as if it was made on the next business day.
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Option 2: Go to an ATM
Another common way to deposit checks is using an automated teller machine (ATM). This method is great if you prefer a physical interaction but still want a relatively quick deposit process.
To make an ATM deposit, you can typically follow the below directions, but some machines work slightly differently, so pay close attention to the options shown on your screen.
- Locate an ATM: Find an ATM affiliated with your bank or credit union. Many banks have ATM locators on their websites or mobile apps. When you arrive, stay alert to your surroundings and complete the transaction in a well-lit area.
- Insert your debit/ATM card: Insert your card into the ATM's card slot and enter your PIN. Then select the "Deposit" option from the onscreen menu.
- Enter check details: Follow the prompts to enter the check amount and the account where you want to deposit the funds.
- Insert the check: The ATM usually instructs you to insert the check directly into the designated slot. Be careful to smooth wrinkles out of the check as much as possible; many ATMs will reject a crumpled-up check.
- Verify deposit: Some ATMs may ask you to verify the check amount and other details before finalizing the deposit.
- Collect receipt: After completing the deposit, collect your card and the receipt for your records.
The availability of funds from an ATM deposit can vary, but it's often similar to mobile deposits, with funds becoming accessible within one to two business days. However, it's essential to note that this may depend on your bank's specific policies. You can always contact your bank to get clarification. Regardless, a bank or credit union's cutoff time for receiving deposits can be no earlier than noon at an ATM.
Option 3: Visit a Bank or Credit Union
If you have a complex deposit that requires special handling (or just prefer a face-to-face interaction), visiting a bank or credit union in person is a practical choice. If you only want to cash a check, make sure you're at a branch you already have an account with; otherwise, you risk a wasted trip.
To make a check deposit at a bank or credit union:
- Visit the branch: Find the nearest branch of your bank or credit union and go during their open business hours.
- Fill out a deposit slip: Upon arriving at the branch, locate the deposit slips (usually available near the entrance or at the teller counter). Fill out the deposit slip with your account information and the check details and sign the back. If you have trouble completing it, a bank teller can help you.
- Go to the teller counter: Wait in line and approach the bank teller when it's your turn, then hand over the completed deposit slip and the signed check.
- Verify information: The teller will review your deposit slip and the check to ensure everything is in order and give you a receipt for your deposit.
Funds from a deposit made in person at a bank or credit union are typically available within one business day. However, this may vary depending on the specifics of the deposit and your financial institution's policies. Federal regulations require a bank or credit union's cutoff time for receiving deposits to be no earlier than 2 p.m. at physical locations.
The Bottom Line
Depositing a check doesn't have to be a complicated process. Whether you choose the convenience of mobile check deposit, the familiarity of using an ATM or the personal touch of visiting a bank or credit union, each option has its benefits. If you're in a hurry and need access to your money quickly, it's worth it to familiarize yourself with your bank's policies about timelines for deposited funds—especially if you're tempted to try a more costly way to get access to cash.