How to Properly Fill Out a Check to Deposit

Understanding how to properly deposit a check is a valuable financial skill. This guide will walk you through endorsing your check, accurately filling out a deposit slip, and finally, submitting your deposit through various convenient methods.

Endorsing Your Check

Endorsing a check is a crucial step that legally transfers ownership of funds to your bank for deposit. This action validates the check for banking purposes and helps prevent unauthorized cashing. The endorsement is typically placed on the back of the check, usually within a designated area. It is important to use permanent ink, such as blue or black, for clarity and security.

The most common and secure method for depositing a check is a restrictive endorsement. This involves writing “For Deposit Only” followed by your signature. This ensures that the check can only be deposited into an account and cannot be cashed by anyone else, even if lost or stolen. For mobile deposits, many banks specifically require “For Mobile Deposit Only” written below your signature, and sometimes the bank’s name or your account number. Failing to include this specific wording for mobile deposits can lead to the check being rejected.

If your name is misspelled on the check, you should endorse it by first signing the name as it appears on the check. Immediately below that, sign your correct legal name as it is registered with your bank. This dual signature clarifies that you are the intended recipient despite the discrepancy. If a check is made out to multiple people, such as “John and Jane Smith,” both individuals typically need to endorse the check. However, if the check reads “John or Jane Smith,” either party can endorse it.

Filling Out a Deposit Slip

A deposit slip serves as a written record of the funds you are depositing, providing itemized details to your bank and creating an official transaction record for yourself. Accurately completing the slip ensures your funds are credited to the correct account without delay.

Begin by writing the current date in the designated field on the slip. Next, ensure your account holder’s name and account number are correctly entered; often, these details are pre-printed if you are using slips from your own checkbook. If using a generic slip, you will need to manually enter this information.

For cash deposits, list the total amount of currency and coins in the “Cash” section. When depositing checks, each check should be listed individually in the “Checks” section. After itemizing all cash and checks, calculate the “Subtotal” by adding these amounts together. If you wish to receive some cash back from your deposit, indicate that amount in the “Less Cash Received” field. Finally, subtract any cash received from the subtotal to arrive at the “Net Deposit” or “Total” amount, which is the final figure to be deposited into your account. Legibility and precision are paramount when filling out the slip to avoid processing errors.

Submitting Your Deposit

Once your check is properly endorsed and, if applicable, your deposit slip is completed, you have several options for submitting your deposit. These methods offer varying levels of convenience.

Depositing at an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is a common choice for its 24/7 availability. Many modern ATMs allow you to insert checks directly without an envelope, and they will scan the checks and display the amounts for your confirmation. Always take your receipt and retain it until the funds are fully available in your account.

You can deposit your check with a bank teller during business hours. Present your endorsed check, the completed deposit slip (if used), and a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license. The teller will process the transaction, provide you with a receipt, and confirm the deposit amount. This method can be helpful if you have questions or require immediate confirmation of your deposit.

Mobile check deposit, available through most banking apps, offers considerable convenience, allowing deposits from almost anywhere using your smartphone or tablet. Remember that for mobile deposits, the specific endorsement “For Mobile Deposit Only” is often required beneath your signature to prevent duplicate deposits. It is advisable to keep the physical check in a secure place for a few days, typically between seven and fourteen days, until you verify the funds have successfully posted to your account.

Most checks clear within one to two business days, though some funds, often the first $225, may be available sooner. Larger amounts, new accounts, or checks with certain characteristics may experience longer holds, potentially up to seven business days or more. Banks are required to inform you if an extended hold is placed on your deposit. Always monitor your account activity to ensure the deposit is processed correctly and the funds become available as expected.