How to Fill Out a Check for Mobile Deposit

Mobile check deposit offers a convenient alternative to traditional branch or ATM deposits. This feature, widely available through banking applications, allows you to deposit checks using your smartphone’s camera. The process streamlines banking tasks, enabling deposits from virtually any location at any time.

Endorsing Your Check for Mobile Deposit

Properly endorsing a check for mobile deposit ensures your funds are processed securely and without delay. Turn the check over to locate the endorsement area on the back, typically a blank space or a designated box. Your signature, matching the payee’s name on the front, should be placed within this area using blue or black ink.

Following your signature, a restrictive endorsement, such as “For Mobile Deposit Only” or “For Deposit Only,” is required. This wording is a security measure that helps prevent the check from being accidentally or fraudulently deposited multiple times, such as via mobile and at a physical branch. Some banks may require you to include your account number or the bank’s name, such as “For Mobile Deposit at [Bank Name] Only.” Consult your bank’s specific mobile deposit instructions. Place all endorsement information clearly within the designated area, avoiding any pre-printed “do not write below this line” sections, to ensure the mobile app can accurately capture the necessary details.

The Mobile Deposit Submission Process

Once your check is endorsed, navigate your bank’s mobile application to complete the deposit. Open your banking app on your smartphone or tablet and log into your account. Locate the “Deposit Checks” or a similarly labeled function, often found on the main menu.

You will be prompted to select the specific account for deposit and enter the check’s monetary amount. The application will guide you to take clear photographs of both the front and back of your endorsed check. Place the check on a dark, flat surface in a well-lit area, positioning your device directly above it to ensure all four corners and details are visible within the app’s on-screen guides. After capturing the images, review the details before confirming and submitting the deposit, which typically provides an on-screen confirmation message.

Managing Your Check After Deposit

After submitting your mobile deposit, it is important to manage the physical check responsibly. Most financial institutions advise retaining the original paper check for a specific period, generally ranging from 5 to 14 days, or even up to 30 days, to account for any potential processing issues or verification needs. During this retention period, write “Electronically Deposited” along with the date of deposit on the check’s front to prevent accidental re-deposit.

Once the deposit has cleared and the funds are fully available in your account, which often occurs within one to two business days, the physical check should be securely destroyed. Shredding the check is a recommended method to protect your financial information. You will typically receive confirmation of a successful deposit through an in-app message, email, or text notification from your bank. Consult your bank’s funds availability policy for precise timelines, as holds can sometimes be placed on larger deposits or new accounts.