5 min
The Do’s and Don’ts of Mobile Check Depositing
Depositing checks via mobile devices is a convenient way to manage finances, but issues can arise if the process isn’t followed correctly. By implementing a few simple strategies, you can ensure smooth and successful mobile check deposits while avoiding common pitfalls.
Summary
Depositing checks via mobile devices is a convenient way to manage finances, but issues can arise if the process isn’t followed correctly. By implementing a few simple strategies, you can ensure smooth and successful mobile check deposits while avoiding common pitfalls.
📸 Take a Better Picture
Capturing a clear and accurate image of your check is the first step in ensuring a successful mobile deposit. To do this, place the check on a flat, stable surface rather than holding it in your hand. Avoid including extraneous items in the frame, such as papers or credit cards, and ensure your fingers do not cover the account number at the bottom. Proper lighting is essential, so use natural light or a well-lit area while avoiding harsh shadows. Many banks recommend ensuring all four corners of the check are visible, and some even suggest marking them with small dots to enhance readability.
Takeaways:
• Place the check on a flat surface to prevent blurriness.
• Ensure proper lighting and avoid shadows.
• Capture all four corners clearly for better processing.
Key Terms
• Account Number Line: The sequence of numbers at the bottom of a check that identifies the bank account associated with the payment.
✂️ Detach Check Stubs or Pay Slips
Many paychecks or business-issued checks come attached to a pay stub or voucher. It’s important to remove any additional attachments before taking a photo. Checks should be in a clean, rectangular form to ensure they are properly read by mobile deposit systems. Extra papers or attachments can confuse the scanning technology, leading to rejected deposits.
Takeaways:
• Remove all attached pay stubs or vouchers before depositing.
• Keep the check in its original rectangular shape for better readability.
Key Terms
• Pay Stub: A document accompanying a paycheck that provides details about earnings and deductions.
🎨 Use a Plain, Dark Background
The background you place your check on can significantly affect its readability. Light-colored checks placed on white or patterned backgrounds can be difficult for mobile deposit apps to process. Instead, choose a dark, solid-colored background that contrasts well with the check. Avoid using surfaces with busy patterns, such as granite countertops or printed tablecloths, which can create distractions and interfere with check scanning.
Takeaways:
• Use a dark, solid background for better check visibility.
• Avoid patterned or textured surfaces that can interfere with image clarity.
Key Terms
• Contrast: The difference in color and brightness that makes an object distinguishable from its background.
📲 Keep Your Banking App Updated
Many modern banking apps use advanced imaging technology, including video mode, to capture check deposits more accurately. These apps provide real-time prompts to adjust lighting, positioning, and framing to ensure a clear image. Keeping your app updated ensures you have the latest deposit features, improving the chances of a successful transaction.
Takeaways:
• Update your banking app regularly to access the latest features.
• Use apps with video-assisted deposit technology for better image capture.
Key Terms
• Video Mode Capture: A feature in banking apps that automatically detects and captures a check image when conditions are optimal.
📶 Check for Good Signal Strength
A strong internet connection is necessary for successfully uploading check images to your bank’s servers. If your signal is weak, your deposit may not go through, or you may receive errors during the process. To prevent this, ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection before submitting a deposit.
Takeaways:
• A weak signal can interfere with check deposit processing.
• Use a strong Wi-Fi or mobile connection when making a deposit.
Key Terms
• Signal Strength: The quality of a wireless connection, affecting data transmission speed and reliability.
✅ Confirm the Check Status – Twice
Even if your banking app confirms that the deposit has been submitted, it’s wise to double-check your account to ensure the funds were successfully added. Some deposits may initially appear successful but later get rejected due to poor image quality or missing details. Always verify the transaction in your bank’s app or website.
Takeaways:
• Don’t rely solely on the initial confirmation message from the banking app.
• Double-check that the deposit was successfully added to your account.
Key Terms
• Deposit Verification: The process of ensuring a check deposit was successfully credited to an account.
❌ Avoid Redeposits and Associated Fees
Accidentally depositing the same check multiple times can lead to fees and delays. Some banks charge penalties for duplicate deposits, while others may simply reject the transaction. To avoid confusion, write “Deposited by mobile app” on the check once the transaction is complete. Some newer check designs also include a checkbox to mark when a check has been deposited.
Takeaways:
• Avoid duplicate deposits by marking checks as deposited.
• Be aware of potential fees for multiple submissions.
Key Terms
• Duplicate Presentment Charge: A fee incurred when a check is deposited more than once.
Conclusion
With these practical tips, you can maximize the success rate of your mobile check deposits and minimize frustrations. From capturing a clear image to verifying deposit status, each step contributes to a smoother banking experience. By following these best practices, you can save time and avoid unnecessary trips to the bank.
