What Is a Mobile Deposit Adjustment?

Mobile deposits offer a convenient way to deposit checks using a smartphone. However, financial institutions sometimes need to correct a deposited amount. These corrections are known as mobile deposit adjustments, and understanding them helps maintain accurate financial records.

Understanding Mobile Deposit Adjustments

A mobile deposit adjustment occurs when a financial institution modifies the amount of a check submitted through a mobile banking application. This ensures the deposited funds accurately reflect the check’s true value. Banks use automated systems and manual review to identify discrepancies.

Adjustments can either increase or decrease the amount credited to an account. For instance, if a customer enters a lower amount than the check’s actual value, the bank might make a positive adjustment. Conversely, if an amount is overstated, a negative adjustment will reduce the credited sum to match the check.

Common Reasons for Adjustments

Several factors can lead to a mobile deposit adjustment. One frequent cause is an image quality issue, such as a blurry, poorly lit, or cropped photo, preventing the bank from accurately reading check details. Another common reason involves missing or incorrect endorsements on the back of the check, like a missing signature or the absence of “For Mobile Deposit Only” as required by many banks.

Discrepancies between the amount entered by the user and the actual amount written on the check also trigger adjustments. If the numerical or written-out amount on the check does not match the app input, the bank’s system will flag it. Attempts to deposit the same check multiple times will result in an adjustment for the duplicate deposit. Checks deemed fraudulent or unpayable by the issuing bank, due to insufficient funds or a stop payment order, will also lead to a reversal or adjustment.

Responding to a Mobile Deposit Adjustment

Upon receiving a notification about a mobile deposit adjustment, review your bank statements or online banking portal. Banks typically send alerts via email or through their mobile app, detailing the reason for the change. This initial review helps confirm the adjustment amount and its impact on your account balance.

If the reason for the adjustment is unclear or you believe an error occurred, promptly contact your bank’s customer service. Be prepared to provide deposit details, including the date and original amount, to facilitate their investigation. Communicate with your financial institution to resolve any discrepancies.

Strategies to Prevent Future Adjustments

To minimize future mobile deposit adjustments, adopt these best practices. Always ensure the check is placed on a dark, flat surface with adequate, even lighting to capture a clear, focused image of both the front and back. Confirm all four corners of the check are visible in the photo, without shadows or glare.

Properly endorse the check by signing the back and adding “For Mobile Deposit Only” along with your account number, if your bank requires it. Double-check that the numerical amount you enter into the mobile banking app precisely matches both the numerical and written amounts on the check. After a successful mobile deposit, retain the physical check in a secure location for a period before shredding it, as some banks may require it for further verification.