How to Deposit Checks

Co-authored by Gina D'Amore

Last Updated: January 17, 2023 References

It used to be that depositing a check required you to make a special trip to the bank, wait in line, and wait longer for the check to clear. Many new and creative methods are available for depositing any check into your checking or savings account quickly and safely. With some banks, it's even possible to deposit a check with a mobile smartphone.

Method 1

Method 1 of 6:

Depositing at the Bank

1
Ensure the check is valid. Check that the following items are legible and correct: name and address of the check’s issuer, date of issue, your name, and amount of money. Also confirm that the front of the check is signed.
2
Visit your bank. You must take your check, account number, and a valid form of personal identification. You can visit any branch of your bank.
- To find the nearest branch, search online. Most banks will show nearby branches on a map.
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3
Fill out a deposit slip. There should be a stack of slips along with pens at a table. Deposit slips are about the same size as a check. You can also request a deposit slip from the teller, but the process will move more quickly if you fill out the deposit slip ahead of time.
- Write in your account number and the amount of the check on the deposit slip. There should also be space for requesting cash back.
4
Endorse your check. You can endorse a check by signing on one of the gray lines on the back. The back of most checks say “Don’t write below this line” because the bank documents the transaction beneath this line.
- If two names are on the face of the check, then one or both of you might need to sign. When the names are joined by an “and,” then both will sign. If the names are joined by an “or,” only one person needs to sign.^{[1]
  X
  Research source} Sometimes, the bank teller might just take one person's name and deposit the check into their account and then wait for the other person who wrote the check to dispute any fraud charges (should it not be the right person).
5
Ask the teller to deposit the check. After deposit, the teller can inform you of your current balance. You can also get cash if you want. Don’t leave until you receive proof of deposit.
- Keep in mind that it can take 3-5 business days (or even up to 2 weeks) before you receive the money from your deposit. Banks sometimes decide to hold onto money for longer because they make interest for each day that they hold onto it, or because a large amount was deposited (and they have to ensure that it's not fraud).

Method 2

Method 2 of 6:

Depositing to a Credit Union

1
Visit any credit union. Depositing at your credit union is a lot like depositing at a bank. Take your endorsed check and your account number. However, credit union members can also deposit checks at other credit unions.
- Most credit unions participate in shared branching. Use the locator at https://co-opcreditunions.org/locator/ to find the nearest branch.
2
Fill out a deposit slip. If you’re visiting your credit union, then fill out a deposit slip, just as you would at a bank. However, if you’re visiting a different credit union, you should ask if you need to use a special deposit slip. Provide the teller with the name of your branch and possibly the address of the main branch of your credit union.
3
Deposit the check into your checking or savings account. This is also a good opportunity to withdraw cash without paying the fee credit union customers normally pay at ATMs. Ask for a receipt that shows your current balance before leaving.

Method 3

Method 3 of 6:

Depositing at an ATM

1
Visit one of your bank's Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). It's important that you select your own bank's ATM. Most ATMs will dispense cash to anyone with a debit card who is willing to pay a fee. However, the ATM will usually accept deposits only from bank members.
- Credit union members who regularly do shared drafting at other locations will have to use an ATM from their particular credit union, not a shared draft union.
2
Log in. Swipe your ATM card or debit card and enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN).^{[2]
X
Research source} You may need to speak to a teller inside if you don’t have your PIN.
3
Choose which account to deposit into. Select "deposit" and then the account you want the check deposited into. Next, you'll have the choice between cash and check. Select “check.”
4
Insert the check. Confirm the check is legible and endorse it. The machine should tell you how to insert the check—face up or face down. Follow the directions and insert your check into the slot. The ATM will scan the check and ask you to confirm information, such as the amount, account number, and other information.
5
Complete any other transactions. The ATM should provide you with your current balance and ask if you want to perform any more transactions. You can deposit cash, withdraw cash, or print a receipt.

Method 4

Method 4 of 6:

Depositing with a Mobile App

1
Download a mobile deposit app. Check to see if your bank features a mobile deposit app for your tablet or smart phone. Chase, Bank of America, Citibank, and other banks have developed apps for mobile devices that make depositing a check as simple as taking a picture. If an app is available, download it onto your phone or mobile device.
2
Endorse your check. Read your bank’s rules for how to endorse the check. All banks will require your signature. However, some banks will also require that you include your account number and other information.^{[3]
X
Research source} You can find your bank’s rules online or by calling.
3
Photograph the check. Open the app and select Deposits. You will then be given options marked "Front of Check" and "Back of Check." Use these options to photograph the front and back of your endorsed check.^{[4]
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4
Deposit your check. Direct the funds to the appropriate account, such as your checking or savings. Fill in the amount of the check using the app, and confirm all information is correct on the confirmation screen. If it is, click “Submit” or "Deposit this Check."
- You should receive a text or email when the check has been deposited.
5
Void the check. Once your check is deposited, write “processed” or “void” on the check. You should keep the voided check for two months, though your bank might set a different length of time.^{[5]
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Method 5

Method 5 of 6:

Using Online Deposit

1
Check if your bank offers online deposit. Visit your bank’s website to check. Most national banks offer online banking, though local banks might not. Some banks might require that you pass a credit check before they will let you enroll.
2
Endorse your check. You’ll need to sign your name on one of the gray lines on the back of the check. Your bank might also require other information, so check online. For example, you might need to include your bank account number or member number.^{[6]
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Research source}
3
Direct your funds to the appropriate account. Visit your bank’s website and log into your account. Go to the deposit online area of the website, which is often located under account tools. Choose the account you want to deposit your check into (i.e., your savings or checking account).^{[7]
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Research source}
4
Scan both sides of the check. You’ll need to pick a scanner. Since only one scanner is usually attached to your computer, this shouldn’t be difficult. The bank’s software should initiate the scan as it guides you through the process. You’ll need to scan both the front and back of the check.^{[8]
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5
Type in the amount if necessary. Some banks will require that you enter the amount manually. Make sure the amount you type is the amount on the face of the check.
6
Submit your deposit. The bank should review your submission and either deposit the money instantly or on the next business day. Check with your bank to find out how long it takes.
- Depending on your bank, you may get a confirmation email. If not, you can simply log into your account and see if the money has been deposited.

Method 6

Method 6 of 6:

Mailing a Check

1
Find the mailing address. Call up the bank and ask. Find the toll-free number on your bank card and speak with a representative to figure out where to send the check.
- Bank of America, for instance, has different addresses depending on whether you are sending the check by regular mail or sending it overnight or by FedEx.^{[9]
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2
Endorse your check. Sign the back of the check. Depending on your bank, you may need to include other information, such as your account number. Confirm what information you need to include with the bank.
- You might need to fill out a deposit slip. Deposit slips should come with your checks, so look at the back of your checkbook.
3
Mail your endorsed check. Include the check and the deposit slip, if necessary. Depending on your bank, you may also need to include a photocopy of your picture ID.
- Remember to never mail cash. Instead, deposit cash through an ATM or by visiting your bank.

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Community Q&A

Question

Can I mail a check to the bank for deposit?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Yes. Include a filled-out deposit slip or -- lacking that -- a letter stating your desire to deposit the check. Include your name, address, and bank account number.
Question

Can I deposit my check at any bank branch?

Community Answer

Yes.
Question

Can someone deposit a check to my account?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Yes, if he/she knows your account number and if the check is made out to you, or you have endorsed the check.