How to Deposit a Check into Your Bank Account

Quick answer

• Identify the bank or credit union where you want to deposit the check.
• Ensure the check is properly endorsed on the back with your signature.
• Choose your preferred deposit method: in-person at a teller or ATM, or remotely via mobile app.
• For mobile deposits, endorse the check, take clear photos of the front and back, and follow app instructions.
• Verify the deposit amount and keep the physical check in a safe place until the funds are confirmed available.
• Check your account balance to confirm the deposit has been processed.

Who this is for

• Individuals who have received a physical check and need to add the funds to their bank account.
• New bank customers unfamiliar with the deposit process.
• Anyone looking for a quick refresher on the available methods for depositing checks.

What to check first (before you act)

Your Bank or Credit Union

Before you can deposit a check, you need to know where you’ll be doing it. This is typically your primary checking or savings account provider. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to open one.

The Check Itself

Examine the check for any obvious errors or missing information. Ensure the date is current, the payee’s name is correct (it should be you or your business), and the written and numerical amounts match.

Your Account Information

Have your account number readily available. This is essential for all deposit methods. You can usually find it on your debit card, bank statements, or by logging into your online banking portal.

How to Put a Check Into Your Bank Account: Step-by-Step

Here’s a straightforward workflow for depositing a check:

1. Endorse the Check:

• What to do: Turn the check over to the back. Look for the endorsement area, usually marked with lines. Sign your name exactly as it appears on the “Pay to the Order of” line. For mobile deposits, you may also need to write “For Mobile Deposit Only” below your signature.
• What “good” looks like: A clear signature that matches the payee name on the front of the check.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Forgetting to endorse the check. Without your signature, the bank cannot accept it. Always check the back before proceeding.

2. Choose Your Deposit Method:

• What to do: Decide whether you want to deposit the check in person, at an ATM, or using your bank’s mobile app.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve selected the most convenient and secure method for your situation.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Not knowing all the available options. Many banks offer multiple ways to deposit, so explore them to find the best fit.

3. Deposit In-Person (Teller):

• What to do: Visit a branch of your bank or credit union. Go to the teller window and present the check and your ID (if requested). Inform the teller you wish to make a deposit and provide your account number or debit card.
• What “good” looks like: The teller accepts your check and processes the deposit efficiently. You receive a receipt.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Going to the wrong bank branch. Ensure you are at a branch of your specific bank or credit union.

4. Deposit In-Person (ATM):

• What to do: Locate an ATM belonging to your bank or one that accepts deposits for your bank. Insert your debit card, enter your PIN, and select the “Deposit” option. Follow the on-screen prompts, which will guide you to insert the endorsed check into the designated slot.
• What “good” looks like: The ATM successfully reads the check and confirms the deposit. You receive a printed receipt.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Using an ATM that doesn’t accept checks or is not affiliated with your bank. This can lead to delays or the check being returned.

5. Deposit Remotely (Mobile App):

• What to do: Open your bank’s mobile app. Navigate to the mobile deposit feature. Enter the check amount. Take clear, well-lit photos of the front and back of the endorsed check when prompted. Submit the deposit.
• What “good” looks like: The app confirms your deposit submission and provides a reference number.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Taking blurry or incomplete photos of the check. This can cause the deposit to be rejected. Ensure all four corners are visible and the image is sharp.

6. Verify Deposit Details:

• What to do: Double-check the amount you entered (for mobile deposits) or the amount the teller/ATM processed.
• What “good” looks like: The amount matches the check’s value.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Incorrectly entering the deposit amount in the mobile app. Always verify the written amount on the check.

7. Keep the Physical Check:

• What to do: Do not discard the physical check immediately after depositing. Keep it in a secure place until you have confirmed the funds are available in your account.
• What “good” looks like: You have the check safely stored until the deposit is fully processed and cleared.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Destroying the check too soon. If there’s an issue with the deposit, you may need the physical check for resolution.

8. Confirm Funds Availability:

• What to do: Check your bank account balance online, via the mobile app, or by calling customer service. Look for the deposited amount to appear. Note that funds may not be immediately available; banks have policies on hold times.
• What “good” looks like: The deposit amount is reflected in your available balance.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Assuming the money is immediately spendable. Understand your bank’s funds availability policy, as some checks may be subject to holds.

9. Securely Store or Destroy the Check:

• What to do: Once you are certain the funds have cleared and are available, you can securely store the check for your records (usually for a period recommended by your bank or for tax purposes) or shred it to prevent fraud.
• What “good” looks like: The check is no longer a risk and is handled appropriately.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Leaving a deposited check in an insecure location. This could lead to someone else trying to cash it again or using your information.

Common Mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Forgetting to endorse the check	The bank will reject the deposit.	Sign the back of the check before attempting to deposit it.
Incorrectly endorsing the check	The deposit may be rejected or delayed.	Sign your name exactly as it appears on the “Pay to the Order of” line.
Depositing at the wrong bank/ATM	The check will not be deposited into your account; you’ll have to re-attempt the deposit.	Ensure you are at a branch or ATM of your specific bank or a partner network that accepts deposits for your bank.
Using blurry or incomplete mobile photos	The mobile deposit will be rejected, requiring you to re-deposit via another method.	Take clear, well-lit photos of the entire front and back of the check, ensuring all four corners are visible.
Entering the wrong amount for mobile deposit	The deposit may be rejected, or you may be credited the incorrect amount, requiring manual correction.	Carefully verify the written amount on the check before entering it into the mobile app.
Destroying the check too soon	If there’s an issue with the deposit, you may not have the necessary proof or recourse to resolve the problem.	Keep the physical check in a safe place until you have confirmed the funds are fully available in your account.
Not understanding funds availability	You might overspend based on an incomplete balance, leading to overdraft fees.	Check your bank’s funds availability policy to understand when deposited funds will be accessible.
Endorsing for someone else	This can be considered fraud and lead to serious legal consequences.	Only endorse checks made out to you or your business.
Depositing a stale-dated check	The bank may refuse to accept the check if it’s too old.	Check the date on the check; most banks have a limit on how old a check can be before it’s considered stale.
Depositing a check with insufficient funds	The check may be returned unpaid by the issuing bank, and you may incur fees from your bank.	Ensure the person or entity writing the check has sufficient funds in their account.

Decision Rules

• If you need funds immediately and are near a branch, then deposit in person at a teller because this is often the fastest way to get credit for funds.
• If you have a smartphone and your bank offers mobile deposit, then use the mobile app because it’s convenient and available 24/7.
• If you are depositing a large check, then consider depositing in person at a teller to ensure proper handling and potentially faster verification.
• If you receive a check made out to multiple payees, then all listed payees must endorse the check because it signifies agreement from everyone to deposit the funds.
• If you are depositing a check into a business account, then ensure the endorsement includes the business name and an authorized signature because business accounts have specific endorsement requirements.
• If you are unsure about the funds availability timeline, then check your bank’s policy or ask the teller/customer service because policies vary significantly.
• If the check is post-dated, then most banks will still accept it, but it’s good practice to confirm with your bank if you have concerns because some may hold it until the date indicated.
• If you receive a check that is not made out to you, then do not attempt to deposit it and return it to the sender because depositing a check not payable to you can have legal implications.
• If you notice an error on the check (e.g., amounts don’t match), then contact the person or entity who issued the check to get a corrected one because the bank cannot alter the check.
• If you are depositing a government check (e.g., tax refund, Social Security), then follow the standard endorsement procedures, as these are generally treated like personal checks.

FAQ

Q: How long does it take for a deposited check to clear?

A: Most checks clear within one to two business days, but some may take longer, especially for larger amounts or if deposited on a weekend or holiday. Check your bank’s funds availability policy.

Q: Can I deposit a check into someone else’s account?

A: Generally, no. You can only deposit checks made payable to you into your own account. For joint accounts, both parties typically need to be present or endorse the check if required by the bank.

Q: What happens if I deposit a check into the wrong account?

A: Contact your bank immediately. They can usually reverse the transaction and move the funds to the correct account, though this may take some time.

Q: Can I deposit a foreign check?

A: Some banks may accept foreign checks, but it often involves higher fees and a longer clearing period. It’s best to check with your bank directly about their policy.

Q: What is the limit for mobile check deposits?

A: Mobile deposit limits vary by bank and by customer. They can be daily, weekly, or monthly. Check with your bank for your specific limits.

Q: Should I shred the check after depositing?

A: Yes, once you’ve confirmed the funds are available and cleared, it’s a good security practice to shred the physical check to prevent potential fraud.

Q: What if the check is written for more than the amount I expect?

A: Do not deposit it. Contact the issuer immediately to clarify the correct amount. Depositing a check for an amount different from what was agreed upon can lead to complications.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• International Money Transfers: This guide focuses on domestic check deposits. For sending or receiving money from abroad, explore international wire transfers or services.
• Cashing Checks Without an Account: While some services allow check cashing, this article assumes you have a bank account. Look into check-cashing services or retailers if you don’t.
• Disputing a Bounced Check: If a check you receive is returned due to insufficient funds, this article doesn’t cover dispute resolution. You would need to contact the issuer of the check.
• Setting Up Direct Deposit: This is about depositing physical checks. For recurring payments like paychecks, learn about setting up direct deposit with your employer.
• Online Payment Platforms: Services like Zelle, Venmo, or PayPal are digital payment methods, not for depositing physical checks. Explore these platforms for peer-to-peer digital transactions.