Thinking about depositing a check with Wells Fargo using their mobile app? You're in the right place! It's super convenient, but understanding the timing of when your funds will become available is key. Let's break down exactly how long eDeposit takes with Wells Fargo and what factors can influence it.
Step 1: Get Ready to Deposit!
- First things first, do you have the Wells Fargo Mobile® app downloaded on your eligible device? If not, head to your app store (Google Play Store or Apple App Store) and download it! This is your gateway to quick and easy mobile deposits. Make sure you have your Wells Fargo login credentials handy.
How Long Does Edeposit Take Wells Fargo |
Step 2: Understanding the Standard Timeline
Wells Fargo generally has a clear policy for mobile deposits, and it largely revolves around their 9 PM Pacific Time (PT) cut-off.
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Deposits made on a business day before 9 PM PT: Your money will generally be available the next business day.
- Example: If you deposit a check on a Monday before 9 PM PT, the funds are typically available on Tuesday.
- Example: If you deposit a check on a Friday before 9 PM PT, the funds are typically available on Saturday.
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Deposits made after 9 PM PT on a business day, or on a weekend or holiday: The deposit will be processed on the next business day, and the funds will generally be available the day after that.
- Example: If you deposit a check on a Monday after 9 PM PT, it's processed on Tuesday, and funds are generally available on Wednesday.
- Example: If you deposit a check on a Friday after 9 PM PT, or any time on Saturday or Sunday, it's processed on Monday (the next business day), and funds are generally available on Tuesday.
Important Note on Business Days: Wells Fargo defines business days as Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays. So, keep an eye on those holiday calendars!
Step 3: Factors That Can Cause Delays (Deposit Holds)
While the general rule is helpful, there are situations where Wells Fargo might place a "hold" on your deposit, delaying when the funds become fully available. This is done for security reasons and to mitigate risk.
Common Reasons for a Deposit Hold:
- New Customer: If you're a relatively new Wells Fargo customer, the bank might place holds on deposits as a standard precaution until a banking history is established.
- Large Deposit Amounts: Deposits that significantly exceed your usual balance or are for a very high dollar amount are more likely to be subject to a hold.
- Frequent Overdrafts: Accounts with a history of frequent overdrafts may see more holds on deposits.
- Checks Previously Returned Unpaid: If the check you're depositing has been returned unpaid in the past, or if the bank suspects it might be returned, a hold will likely be placed.
- Suspicion of Fraud: Any indication of potential fraud, such as unusual activity or concerns about the check's legitimacy, will trigger a hold.
- Checks from Foreign Banks: Checks drawn on banks outside of the U.S. can take considerably longer to clear.
- "Third-Party Checks": Checks made payable to someone else and then endorsed over to you might be subject to longer holds.
- Non-Standard Checks: Oversized or undersized checks (like some rebate checks) may not be accepted via mobile deposit and might require an in-person deposit, which could also have different availability times.
What Happens During a Hold?
When a hold is placed, the amount of the check is credited to your account, but it's not yet available for you to use. Wells Fargo will notify you if a hold is applied. This notification will include:
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- Details on the amount being held.
- The specific date when the held funds are expected to be available.
It's crucial not to write checks or attempt to withdraw funds that are under a hold, as this could lead to overdraft fees or returned items.
Step 4: Checking Your Deposit Status
You don't have to guess when your funds will be available. Wells Fargo makes it easy to track your deposit status:
- In the Wells Fargo Mobile® App: You can view the status of your deposit directly in the Account Activity section for the relevant account.
- Confirmation Notifications: You'll typically receive an email confirmation and/or an in-app notification confirming your deposit and any applicable holds.
Your deposit amount is available when it appears in your available balance.
Step 5: Best Practices for Smooth Mobile Deposits
To minimize delays and ensure your eDeposits go through seamlessly:
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- Endorse Your Check Properly: Always sign the back of your check. It's also a good idea to write "For Mobile Deposit Only" and your account number beneath your signature.
- Take Clear Photos: Ensure both the front and back of the check are well-lit, in focus, and capture all four corners. A dark background can often help with contrast.
- Verify the Amount: Double-check that the amount you enter in the app matches the amount written on the check. Mismatches can cause processing delays.
- Keep the Original Check: After making a mobile deposit, write "Mobile deposit" and the date on the front of the check. Store it in a safe place for at least 5 business days, and then destroy it. This ensures you have the original in case it's needed for any reason.
- Be Aware of Limits: Wells Fargo has daily and monthly limits for mobile deposits. These limits vary by account and customer relationship. You can usually see your specific limits within the app when attempting a deposit. If you anticipate depositing a large check, it might be worth contacting Wells Fargo beforehand to discuss your limits or explore other deposit methods.
- Understand Early Pay Day (for Direct Deposits): While this post focuses on eDeposits (check deposits), it's worth noting that Wells Fargo offers "Early Pay Day" for eligible direct deposits (like payroll). This allows you to access funds up to two business days early. However, this feature does not apply to mobile check deposits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about Wells Fargo eDeposits, starting with 'How to':
How to check the status of my Wells Fargo mobile deposit? You can check the status of your mobile deposit by logging into the Wells Fargo Mobile® app and navigating to the "Account Activity" section for the account where you made the deposit.
How to avoid holds on my Wells Fargo mobile deposit? To minimize holds, ensure you have a good banking history with Wells Fargo, avoid frequent overdrafts, and if depositing a large check, consider depositing it in person at a branch. Always ensure your check is properly endorsed and clearly photographed.
How to endorse a check for Wells Fargo mobile deposit? Sign the back of the check in the endorsement area. It's also recommended to write "For Mobile Deposit Only" and your Wells Fargo account number below your signature.
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How to find my Wells Fargo mobile deposit limits? Your specific mobile deposit limits are usually displayed within the Wells Fargo Mobile® app when you initiate a mobile deposit. They can vary based on your account type and relationship with the bank.
How to deposit a check larger than my mobile deposit limit at Wells Fargo? If your check exceeds your mobile deposit limit, you will need to deposit it in person at a Wells Fargo branch or an ATM.
How to get help if my Wells Fargo eDeposit is delayed or rejected? If your eDeposit is delayed beyond the expected timeframe or is rejected, first check your account activity for any hold notifications. If you need further assistance, you can contact Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557) or visit a local branch.
How to handle a check after making a Wells Fargo mobile deposit? After successfully making a mobile deposit, write "Mobile deposit" and the date on the front of the physical check. Store it in a safe place for 5 business days, and then securely shred or destroy it.
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How to deposit a third-party check with Wells Fargo mobile deposit? Wells Fargo generally discourages or may place holds on third-party checks (checks made out to someone else and then endorsed to you) via mobile deposit. It's often best to deposit these in person at a branch.
How to know if my Wells Fargo account is eligible for mobile deposit? Most Wells Fargo checking and savings accounts are eligible for mobile deposit. If you don't see the mobile deposit option in your app, or have specific questions about your account's eligibility, contact Wells Fargo customer service.
How to make sure my Wells Fargo eDeposit image is clear? Place the check on a dark, plain background. Ensure there's adequate lighting and no shadows. Hold your device steady directly above the check, making sure all four corners are visible within the camera frame. Avoid glare from lights.