How to Make Mobile Check Deposits

Millions of Americans regularly use mobile banking, including the ability to deposit checks with a mobile device. Depositing checks with a smartphone, a tablet, or another mobile device is fast, easy, secure, and convenient—and eliminates the need to visit a branch or ATM. Plus, your money is normally available within a couple of business days.

Among the key steps required for making mobile check deposits are:

• Endorsing the check
• Choosing the account where you want to deposit the check
• Entering the amount of the check

Read our step-by-step guide for making mobile check deposits.

1. Download your bank’s app

If you haven’t downloaded your financial institution’s mobile app, you’ll need to do this before you can make a mobile deposit. You typically can find your bank’s app on the App Store (Apple devices) and Google Play (Android devices) platforms.  

2. Endorse the check

In the endorsement section on the back of the check, sign your name using a pen with black or blue ink. Under the signature, you may be required to write something like “For mobile deposit only.” Some checks feature a preprinted box for indicating a mobile deposit, but checking this box won’t fulfill a financial institution’s “For mobile deposit only” requirement.

3. Open the bank app on your mobile device and select the mobile deposit function

After you’ve endorsed the check, open your bank’s app on your mobile device and then choose the function for making a deposit.

4. Choose the account where you want to deposit the check

You’ll be given the option to pick which account will receive the deposit, such as your checking or savings account.

5. Enter the check amount

Make sure the dollar amount on the check is correct before you snap photos of it. For instance, if the check is made out for $375.75, don’t round up the number to $376. The number you plug in to the app should match the exact amount of the check.

6. Take clear pictures of the check with your mobile device

To ensure there are no glitches with your mobile deposit, take pictures of the check in a well-lit area and on a flat surface that’s clear and dark. Be sure that the check is fully within the frame that you see and that nothing else is visible. You’ll be directed to snap a picture of the front and back of the check.

7. Review the deposit details, then hit submit

Review deposit details that have been captured, such as the amount of the check, and change any information that’s incorrect. Once you’re sure all the information is accurate, submit the check to your bank and wait for its confirmation of the deposit.

More Tips for Making Mobile Check Deposits

Here are additional suggestions for making mobile check deposits.

Know Your Bank’s Mobile Check Deposit Limits

Most financial institutions put daily, weekly, or monthly limits on the total amount of dollars that can be deposited with a mobile app. If you exceed those limits, you may need to visit a branch to deposit a check.

Learn When Your Money Will Be Available

Money from a mobile deposit is generally available within one or two business days, depending on the time of the deposit and the amount of the check. It might take longer, though, if your financial institution puts a hold on the check for any number of reasons.

Keep the Check Until It’s Been Processed

Safely store the check until you see the entire amount of the deposit show up in your account’s list of past or recent transactions.

Shred the Check Once It’s Cleared

Once the check has cleared, destroy it right away by shredding it or using another secure method.

The Bottom Line

Mobile deposit allows you to quickly, conveniently, and safely deposit a check in your bank account without going to a branch or ATM. To make sure the process goes smoothly, follow the right steps, such as properly endorsing the check and taking clear photos of it.