Yes, you can deposit most checks online using your bank's mobile app or website

Most banks and credit unions now offer mobile check deposit, which lets you photograph the front and back of a check and submit it through their app or website. The bank receives the image, processes it, and the funds appear in your account — usually within one to three business days. You do not need to visit a branch or an ATM.

Not every check can be deposited this way. Personal checks, payroll checks, and government checks typically work. Checks from other banks, cashier's checks, and checks made out to a business rather than you usually cannot be deposited remotely. Your bank's app will tell you whether a specific check is may be able to access before you submit it.

Key Takeaways

  • Mobile check deposit works through your bank's app or website by photographing both sides of the check.
  • Funds typically post within one to three business days, though some banks offer faster posting for certain account types.
  • You must endorse the check (sign the back) and write "For mobile deposit only" below your signature to prevent misuse if the physical check is lost.
  • Daily and monthly deposit limits vary by bank — some allow $5,000 per day, others $10,000 or more, so check your bank's rules before depositing large amounts.
  • If your bank does not offer mobile deposit, you can mail the check, use an ATM deposit envelope, or visit a branch in person.

How to set up mobile check deposit on your bank's app

Open your bank's mobile app and look for a menu option labeled "Deposit a Check," "Mobile Deposit," or "Remote Deposit." You will need to register for the feature the first time you use it — this usually takes a few minutes and requires you to verify your identity and account information.

Once registered, the app will guide you through taking photos. You photograph the front of the check, then the back. The app checks that both images are clear, that the check amount and routing numbers are readable, and that you have not already deposited that check. If the images pass, you confirm the amount and submit. The app then shows you a confirmation number.

Keep the physical check for at least 30 days after deposit. Do not spend it or deposit it elsewhere. After 30 days, destroy it by shredding or writing "VOID" across it in large letters.

What to write on the back of the check before photographing

Sign the back of the check as you normally would. Below your signature, write "For mobile deposit only" in blue or black ink. This instruction tells anyone who finds the check that it cannot be cashed in person — it reduces the risk if the physical check goes missing after you photograph it.

Do not write anything else on the back. Do not include your account number, routing number, or any other banking details. The bank reads the numbers from the front of the check automatically.

Deposit limits and how long funds take to appear

Your bank sets a daily limit (how much you can deposit in one day) and a monthly limit (how much in 30 days). These vary widely. Some banks allow $5,000 per day and $25,000 per month. Others allow $10,000 per day and $50,000 per month. A few have no stated limit. Check your bank's website or app to find your specific limits before depositing a large check.

Funds typically post to your account within one to three business days. Some banks offer next-business-day posting for certain account types (such as premium checking or business accounts), but this is not standard. Weekend and holiday deposits may take longer. The bank's app usually shows you an estimated posting date when you submit the check.

Checks that cannot be deposited online

Your bank will reject checks that are not may be able to access for mobile deposit. These include checks made out to someone other than you, checks that are more than six months old, checks with damage or illegible printing, and checks that are not drawn on a U.S. bank. Cashier's checks, money orders, and traveler's checks also cannot be deposited remotely at most banks.

If your check is ineligible, you have other options: mail it to your bank (if they accept mailed deposits), deposit it at an ATM with a deposit envelope, or visit a branch in person. Some banks also allow you to have a teller photograph the check for you if you visit.

What happens if the photo is blurry or the check is rejected

If your photos are too dark, blurry, or cut off, the app will ask you to retake them before you submit. If you submit anyway and the bank cannot read the check, they will reject the deposit and notify you through the app or email. The funds will not post, and you will need to try again with clearer photos or use a different deposit method.

If the bank suspects fraud — for example, if you try to deposit the same check twice — they will reject it and may contact you to investigate. This is rare with legitimate deposits, but it can happen if you accidentally submit twice or if someone else deposits the check in person after you photograph it.

Banks and credit unions that offer mobile check deposit

Most large banks offer mobile deposit: Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, Citibank, and U.S. Bank all have it. Most credit unions offer it as well, though smaller institutions may not. If your bank does not list mobile deposit in its app menu, contact them directly to ask whether it is available for your account type.

Some banks restrict mobile deposit to certain account types. For example, a bank might offer it to checking account holders but not savings account holders, or to customers with accounts open for at least 30 days. Check your bank's terms before assuming you can use it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit a check made out to someone else?

No. The check must be made out to you or to you and another person whose name is on the account. If the check is made out to someone else, they must deposit it themselves or sign it over to you in writing (called a third-party endorsement), and even then many banks will not accept it through mobile deposit.

What if I take a blurry photo by accident and submit it?

The bank will reject it and tell you the images are not clear enough. You can retake the photos and resubmit. There is no penalty for resubmitting — you are not charged a fee or flagged for fraud.

Do I need to destroy the check right away after depositing it?

No. Keep it for at least 30 days in case the bank needs to verify the deposit or investigate a problem. After 30 days, shred it or write "VOID" across it. Do not deposit the physical check anywhere else or try to cash it.

What if my bank does not offer mobile deposit?

You can mail the check to your bank's processing center (ask for the address), deposit it at an ATM with a deposit envelope if your bank has ATMs, or visit a branch in person. Some banks also let you schedule a mobile deposit through a teller if you call ahead.

Does mobile deposit cost money?

No. Mobile check deposit is free at virtually all banks and credit unions. There are no per-deposit fees or monthly charges for using the feature.