Can You Deposit a Cashier’s Check on a Mobile App?

Mobile banking applications offer a convenient way to manage finances from almost any location. This digital accessibility extends to depositing checks, allowing users to complete transactions without visiting a physical bank branch or ATM. Many financial institutions enable the mobile deposit of various check types, including cashier’s checks. This streamlined process leverages a smartphone’s camera to capture check images and submit them directly to the bank.

Understanding Mobile Deposit for Cashier’s Checks

A cashier’s check is a secure payment instrument issued by a bank, drawn on the bank’s own funds, not on an individual’s account. This makes them safer than personal checks as funds are guaranteed by the issuing bank. Most banks allow mobile deposit of cashier’s checks, along with other check types. However, banks may have specific policies and requirements that must be met before a successful deposit can occur.

Before mobile depositing, prepare the cashier’s check correctly. The back of the check must be endorsed with a signature and a restrictive endorsement such as “For Mobile Deposit Only” to prevent further negotiation. Placing the check on a dark, flat surface with good lighting helps ensure clear images.

Banks set daily or per-check deposit limits, which vary based on customer account history. Checks older than 180 days or unreadable due to damage may not be accepted. It is advisable to review specific bank guidelines within their mobile app or on their website, as requirements can differ.

Steps for Mobile Deposit

Begin by opening your bank’s mobile application on your smartphone or tablet. Within the app, locate and select the mobile deposit feature, often found under a “Deposit” or “Transfers & Pay” menu. You will then choose the account into which you wish to deposit the funds and enter the exact amount of the cashier’s check.

The application will prompt you to take clear photographs of both the front and back of the properly endorsed check. For best results, position your device directly above the check, ensuring all four corners are visible and it lies flat. After capturing images, the app displays a summary of deposit details for your review. Confirm all information, especially the amount, is accurate before submitting. Upon successful submission, most apps provide an immediate confirmation message or email, indicating the deposit is processing.

After Your Mobile Deposit

After submitting your mobile deposit, banks provide a confirmation message within the app or via email. This indicates the deposit is processing, not that funds are immediately available. While cashier’s checks are secure, banks may place holds on funds, especially for large amounts or new accounts, to verify authenticity. Fund availability timelines can vary, but often a portion of the funds may be available within one business day, with the full amount accessible within two to five business days, depending on the bank’s policies.

Retain the physical cashier’s check for 7 to 14 days in case the bank requires further verification or the deposit encounters an issue. Once the funds are fully credited to your account and confirmed, the physical check should be securely shredded or destroyed to prevent fraud. You can typically monitor the status of your deposit directly within your mobile banking app, often in a “Deposited Checks” or “Activity Center” section.