Hey there! Are you ready to say goodbye to those trips to the ATM or bank branch just to deposit a check? Imagine a world where you can deposit your checks from the comfort of your couch, in your pajamas, at any time of day or night. Sounds pretty good, right? Well, with Wells Fargo's mobile deposit feature, that world is already here!
Depositing a check online with Wells Fargo is incredibly convenient, safe, and surprisingly simple. Whether you're a seasoned mobile banking pro or just starting your digital banking journey, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth and successful deposit. Let's get started!
How to Deposit a Check Online with Wells Fargo: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Get Ready for Your Mobile Deposit Adventure!
Before you even think about snapping a photo of your check, there are a few crucial preparations to make. Think of this as your pre-flight checklist for a smooth digital banking experience.
Sub-heading: Download and Log In to the Wells Fargo Mobile App
First things first, you'll need the Wells Fargo Mobile® app. If you don't already have it, head over to your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS) and search for "Wells Fargo Mobile." Download and install it.
Once installed, open the app and log in using your Wells Fargo Online® username and password. If you haven't set up online banking yet, you'll need to do that first on the Wells Fargo website.
Sub-heading: Prepare Your Check for Deposit
This is the most critical step to avoid any processing delays. Follow these instructions meticulously:
- Endorse Your Check: Turn your check over to the back. In the endorsement area, you must sign your name exactly as it appears on the "Pay to the Order of" line.
- Add the Mobile Deposit Endorsement: Immediately below your signature, write "For Mobile Deposit at Wells Fargo Only." Some checks may even have a pre-printed box you can check for mobile deposit, which is even easier! Do not skip this part. Improper endorsement is the most common reason for deposit rejections.
Step 2: Navigate to the Deposit Feature in the App
Once you're logged into the Wells Fargo Mobile app, finding the deposit option is straightforward.
Sub-heading: Locating the Deposit Option
Look for the "Deposit" option, usually located in the bottom navigation bar of the app. Alternatively, you might see a "Deposit Checks" shortcut on your account summary screen. Tap on it to begin.
Step 3: Input Your Deposit Details
This is where you tell Wells Fargo where you want the money to go and how much it is.
Sub-heading: Select Your Account
You'll be presented with a list of your eligible Wells Fargo checking and savings accounts. Choose the account where you want to deposit the check. If you have a preferred account, you can even set it as your default for future mobile deposits.
Sub-heading: Enter the Check Amount
Carefully type in the exact dollar amount of the check you are depositing. Double-check this number! A mismatch between the entered amount and the check's actual amount can lead to holds or rejections. The app will also show you your remaining daily and 30-day mobile deposit limits at this stage, which is helpful to keep in mind.
Step 4: Capture Clear Images of Your Check
This step is all about getting good "photos" of your check, as these images are what the bank uses to process your deposit.
Sub-heading: Positioning Your Check for the Best Photo
- Lighting is Key: Place your endorsed check on a dark-colored, plain surface that is well-lit. Avoid shadows or glare.
- Flat and Unobstructed: Ensure the check is lying completely flat and that there are no objects or hands obstructing any part of it.
- Directly Overhead: Position your mobile device's camera directly over the check, not at an angle.
- Fit All Four Corners: The app will typically provide guides on your screen. Make sure all four corners of the check fit within these guides.
Sub-heading: Taking the Front and Back Photos
The app will prompt you to take a photo of the front of the check first, then the back. Use the camera button within the app to capture the images. The app might even automatically capture the image once it detects a good shot. Take your time to ensure the images are clear, legible, and include all relevant information (check number, payee, amount, routing number, account number, and your endorsement).
Step 5: Review and Submit Your Deposit
You're almost there! This final review step is crucial to ensure everything is correct before sending it off.
Sub-heading: Verify All Details
On the review screen, carefully check the following:
- The account you selected for the deposit.
- The entered deposit amount.
- The images of the front and back of your check. Make sure they are clear and all information is readable.
Sub-heading: Final Submission
If everything looks correct, tap the "Submit" or "Deposit" button. You'll receive an on-screen confirmation message indicating that your deposit has been received and is being processed. Wells Fargo will also send a confirmation to your primary email address and your Wells Fargo Online® Message Center secure mailbox.
Step 6: What to Do After a Successful Mobile Deposit
Your work isn't quite done after hitting submit! There's an important final step to take for your security.
Sub-heading: Mark and Store Your Check
- Write "Mobile Deposit" and the date on the front of your physical check. This prevents accidental re-deposit.
- Store the check in a safe place for at least 5 business days. This is important in case the original check is required for any reason.
- After 5 days, destroy the check by shredding it. Do not just throw it in the trash!
Important Considerations for Wells Fargo Mobile Deposit
- Deposit Limits: Wells Fargo has daily and 30-day mobile deposit limits, which can vary based on your account history and relationship with the bank. These limits are usually displayed within the app when you're making a deposit. If you frequently deposit large checks, you might need to speak with Wells Fargo about increasing your limits.
- Funds Availability: Generally, deposits made on a business day before the cutoff time (typically 9 PM Pacific Time for mobile deposits) will be available the next business day. However, some deposits may be subject to longer holds (up to 7 business days or more) due to various factors like new accounts, frequent overdrafts, large check amounts, or if the bank suspects fraud. You'll be notified if a hold is placed.
- Eligible Checks: Most standard checks (personal checks, cashier's checks, government checks) are eligible for mobile deposit. However, certain types of checks, like foreign checks, money orders, or temporary checks, might not be accepted via mobile deposit.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Wells Fargo mobile deposit limits?
You can typically view your daily and 30-day mobile deposit limits within the Wells Fargo Mobile app when you initiate a deposit. It will usually be displayed on the screen where you enter the check amount.
How to endorse a check for Wells Fargo mobile deposit?
Sign your name on the back of the check in the endorsement area, and directly below your signature, write "For Mobile Deposit at Wells Fargo Only." Some checks may have a checkbox for mobile deposit that you can simply check.
How to resolve issues with Wells Fargo mobile deposit photos?
Ensure your check is on a dark, plain, well-lit surface. Hold your camera directly over the check, not at an angle, and make sure all four corners are within the guides on the app's screen. Blurry or cut-off images are common issues, so retake the photos until they are clear.
How to find my Wells Fargo Mobile app version?
On iOS, go to Settings > Wells Fargo. On Android, go to Settings > Apps > Wells Fargo. The version number should be listed there. Ensure your app is up to date for the best experience.
How to know if my Wells Fargo mobile deposit was successful?
You'll receive an on-screen confirmation message in the app immediately after submission. Additionally, Wells Fargo will send a confirmation email to your primary email address and a message to your Wells Fargo Online® Message Center secure mailbox.
How to check the status of a Wells Fargo mobile deposit?
You can view the status of your deposit in the Account Activity section for the relevant account within the Wells Fargo Mobile app or Wells Fargo Online. The amount will appear in your available balance once it's cleared.
How to get a refund for fees due to a Wells Fargo mobile deposit hold?
If a deposit hold was placed without proper notification at the time of deposit and the check was ultimately paid, you may be eligible for a refund of any fees incurred due to the hold. Contact Wells Fargo customer service (1-800-TO-WELLS or 1-800-869-3557) for assistance.
How to dispose of a check after Wells Fargo mobile deposit?
Write "Mobile Deposit" and the date on the front of the check, store it in a safe place for 5 business days, and then shred it to destroy it completely.
How to increase my Wells Fargo mobile deposit limits?
Mobile deposit limits are often based on your account history and relationship with Wells Fargo. You can try contacting Wells Fargo customer service or visiting a branch to inquire about the possibility of increasing your mobile deposit limits.
How to tell if my Wells Fargo account is eligible for mobile deposit?
Most personal checking and savings accounts are eligible. If you don't see the "Deposit" option in your Wells Fargo Mobile app, or if you encounter an error, it's best to contact Wells Fargo customer service to confirm your account's eligibility.