What Is a PDF Check and How Do You Deposit One?

Understanding What a PDF Check Is

A PDF check is a digital version of a traditional paper check in Portable Document Format (PDF). This format allows for secure transmission and storage of check information, offering an alternative to mailing physical checks.

PDF checks originate from accounting software, financial platforms, or scanned physical checks. They contain the same essential components as a paper check: the bank’s routing number, account number, check number, payee, amount, date, and drawer’s signature.

PDF checks exist solely in digital format until printed. Unlike purely electronic payment methods, such as Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers or wire transfers, which move funds directly, a PDF check requires a process similar to depositing a physical check. It functions as a digital image that needs to be presented to a financial institution for processing.

Receiving and Verifying a PDF Check

Recipients commonly receive PDF checks as email attachments. Upon receipt, carefully scrutinize its legitimacy to protect against potential fraud.

Examine the PDF’s visual quality. Look for clear, sharp text and images; blurry or pixelated details can suggest tampering. Verify that fonts, logos, and alignment appear consistent and professional, as inconsistencies might indicate a fraudulent document.

Cross-reference the sender’s identity and contact information with your existing records or expected payment details. If in doubt, contact the sender directly through independently verified channels, such as a phone number you already have on file or a known email address, rather than replying to the email that delivered the PDF check. This step is important to confirm authenticity and avoid scams.

Depositing a PDF Check

After verifying a PDF check, you can deposit the funds into your bank account using several methods. For most deposit methods, the PDF check must first be printed clearly on a standard sheet of paper to ensure all necessary information, such as routing and account numbers, is legible for processing.

Mobile check deposit is a common method available through most banking applications. To use this feature, print the PDF check, endorse the back, and use your smartphone’s camera to capture images of both the front and back. The banking app guides you through aligning the check for a successful capture.

Alternatively, deposit a printed PDF check at an automated teller machine (ATM) or directly at a bank branch. At an ATM, simply insert the printed and endorsed check into the designated slot. For in-person deposits, present the printed and endorsed check to a teller.

After the deposit, funds typically become available within one to three business days. Some financial institutions may place a hold on larger amounts for a longer period, generally not exceeding seven to ten business days. Confirm the deposit by checking your bank account online or through your mobile app.