Online deposit methods depend on your bank and what you're depositing

Most banks let you deposit checks through their mobile app or website without visiting a branch. Some also let you transfer money from another account, deposit cash at an ATM, or use a third-party service. The method you can use depends on what your bank offers and what you're trying to deposit — a check works differently than cash, and cash works differently than a transfer from savings.

The fastest deposits usually happen within one business day. Some banks post transfers instantly. Checks typically take one to three business days to clear, depending on when you deposit them and your bank's processing schedule.

Key Takeaways

  • Mobile check deposit lets you photograph a check and submit it through your bank's app, and most banks process these within one business day.
  • Transfers from your own savings account or another bank account usually post instantly or within one business day.
  • Cash deposits require an ATM that accepts cash, a branch visit, or a third-party service like MoneyGram or Walmart, depending on what your bank offers.
  • You need your account number and routing number to receive transfers from other people, and you should verify the amount posted correctly before relying on the money.

Mobile check deposit through your bank's app

Most banks offer mobile check deposit in their app. You photograph the front and back of the check, enter the amount, and submit it. The bank's system reads the check image and processes it. You do not mail the check or visit a branch.

After you submit, the bank usually posts the deposit within one business day. Some banks show the money as pending immediately and clear it the next day. A few banks clear checks the same day if you deposit before a certain time — usually 2 p.m. or 5 p.m. — but this varies by bank and by the check amount.

To use mobile check deposit, download your bank's app, log in, and look for "deposit," "mobile deposit," or "check deposit." You will need to photograph both sides of the check clearly. The bank's app will tell you if the image is too blurry or if it cannot read the check number or amount. After the bank processes the deposit, destroy the check or write "deposited" on it so you do not try to deposit it again.

Transfers from another account at the same bank

If you have a savings account or money market account at the same bank, you can transfer money to your checking account through online banking or the app. Log in, select "transfer," choose the account you want to transfer from, enter the amount, and confirm. The money usually posts instantly or within a few minutes.

There are no fees for transferring between your own accounts at the same bank. You can transfer as often as you want. Some banks let you set up automatic transfers on a schedule — for example, moving money from savings to checking every Friday.

Transfers from a different bank

You can transfer money from a checking or savings account at another bank into your account. The receiving bank needs your account number and routing number. You can give this information to the person sending the money, or you can initiate the transfer yourself from the other bank's website or app.

Transfers between different banks usually take one to three business days. Some banks offer faster transfers through services like Zelle, which can post within minutes or hours. Ask your bank whether it offers Zelle or similar services and whether there are limits on how much you can transfer at once.

If you are receiving a transfer from someone else, provide them with your account number and routing number. Your routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank. You can find it on a check, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank. Never share your PIN or password — only your account and routing numbers are needed for a transfer.

Cash deposits at ATMs and branches

Some banks have ATMs that accept cash deposits. You insert cash, the machine counts it, and the deposit posts to your account. The money usually shows up the same day or the next business day. Not all ATMs accept cash, so check your bank's website or app to find a cash-deposit ATM near you.

If your bank does not have cash-deposit ATMs, you can visit a branch during business hours and deposit cash with a teller. Bring your debit card or account number. The teller will count the cash, give you a receipt, and the money posts immediately or the next business day.

Some banks charge a fee if you use an ATM that belongs to a different bank. Your bank's website will tell you which ATMs are part of its network and which ones charge fees.

Third-party cash deposit services

If your bank has no ATMs or branches near you, you can deposit cash at certain retail locations. Walmart, MoneyGram, and some grocery stores offer cash deposit services for certain banks. You bring cash to the location, provide your account number, and the service deposits it into your account. Fees vary — some services charge a flat fee per deposit, and some charge a percentage of the amount.

Check your bank's website to see which third-party services it partners with. Not all banks work with all services, and not all locations offer the service. Call ahead or check the location's website before you go.

What to do after you deposit money online

After you submit a deposit, check your account balance or transaction history to confirm the money posted. For checks, the deposit may show as pending for a day or two before it clears. For transfers, the money usually appears within minutes to one business day.

Do not assume the money is available until your bank confirms it has cleared. Some banks let you use pending deposits right away, but others hold the money until it clears. Check your bank's policy or look at your account to see whether the deposit shows as available or pending.

If a deposit does not appear after the time your bank said it would, contact your bank. For checks, the bank may need to resubmit the image or investigate whether the check was processed. For transfers, the bank can trace the transfer and tell you where it is. Keep your receipt or confirmation number from the deposit so you can reference it when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit a check written to someone else?

No. The check must be written to you or to you and another person. If the check is written to someone else, that person must deposit it or sign it over to you, and even then, many banks will not accept third-party checks. Ask your bank before trying to deposit a check that is not in your name.

What if my mobile check deposit is rejected?

The bank will tell you why — usually because the image is too blurry, the check amount is unclear, or the check number cannot be read. Take new photos with better lighting, make sure the entire check is visible, and resubmit. If the bank rejects it again, visit a branch or call the bank to deposit it in person.

How long does a transfer from another bank take?

Standard transfers take one to three business days. Weekends and bank holidays add time — a transfer submitted on Friday may not arrive until Tuesday. Some banks offer faster transfers through Zelle or similar services, which can post within hours. Check with both banks to see what speed they offer.

Do I need to write anything on a check after I deposit it online?

Yes. Write "deposited" and the date on the back of the check so you remember you already deposited it. Keep the check for at least 30 days in case the bank needs to verify the deposit. After that, you can destroy it.

What is the difference between a routing number and an account number?

Your routing number identifies your bank — it is the same for all customers at that bank. Your account number identifies your specific account. Both are needed for transfers from other banks. You can find both on a check, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank.