What to Write on the Back of a Check for Mobile Deposit

Mobile check deposit offers a convenient way to deposit funds into your account using a smartphone. This digital banking tool eliminates the need to visit a physical bank branch or ATM, allowing deposits from virtually any location at any time. Proper endorsement of the check is a necessary step to ensure the transaction is processed correctly and securely, preventing potential delays or rejections.

Standard Mobile Deposit Endorsement

For mobile check deposits, a specific endorsement phrase is generally required to ensure security and prevent the check from being deposited multiple times. The most common and widely accepted practice involves signing your name in the endorsement area on the back of the check, typically above a pre-printed line that may say “Endorse here.” Directly below your signature, you should handwrite “For Mobile Deposit Only.” This specific wording is important because it restricts the check’s use, meaning it can only be deposited into an account via a mobile device and cannot be cashed or deposited in person.

Using blue or black ink for the endorsement is recommended to ensure legibility, as other ink colors or pencils may lead to processing issues. It is also important that your signature matches the one your bank has on file to avoid temporary delays in processing. Even if a check has a pre-printed box for mobile deposit, many banks still require the handwritten “For Mobile Deposit Only” endorsement.

Understanding Bank-Specific Endorsement Requirements

While “For Mobile Deposit Only” is a common endorsement, financial institutions can have additional or slightly different requirements for mobile deposits. It is important to check your specific bank’s mobile banking application or website for their precise instructions. These variations might include requiring your account number, the bank’s name, or a specific date written alongside your signature and the standard phrase. For example, some banks may require the endorsement to be “For Mobile Deposit Only at [Bank Name]” or “For Mobile Deposit Only [Account Number]”. Failure to include these specific requirements can lead to the deposit being delayed or rejected.

Handling Your Check After Mobile Deposit

After successfully submitting a mobile deposit, it is important to follow specific procedures for the physical check. Most financial institutions recommend retaining the original paper check for a certain period. This retention period typically ranges from 5 to 30 days, or until you have confirmed the funds have fully cleared and posted to your account. Keeping the check during this time is a safeguard in case of any processing errors or if the bank requires the original item for verification.

Once the deposit has been confirmed and the funds are available, the physical check should be securely destroyed. This prevents any possibility of the check being accidentally or fraudulently deposited again. Secure destruction methods include shredding the check with a cross-cut or diamond shredder to ensure all sensitive information is irretrievably destroyed. Avoid simply tearing the check or placing it in regular trash or recycling containers, as this could expose your financial details.