It's a common scenario: a grandparent sends a birthday check, or your child earns a small sum, and suddenly you're wondering how to get that money into their hands (or their savings account!). Depositing a check written to your child at Wells Fargo doesn't have to be complicated, but there are some important steps and considerations. Let's walk through it together!
Depositing a Check Written to Your Child at Wells Fargo: A Comprehensive Guide
First things first, congratulations on helping your child manage their finances! It's a wonderful opportunity to teach them about saving, spending, and the value of money. Now, let's get that check deposited.
Step 1: Understanding Your Child's Account Status at Wells Fargo
Before you do anything else, you need to understand the specifics of your child's banking relationship with Wells Fargo. This is the most crucial first step because it dictates how you'll proceed.
Sub-heading: Does Your Child Already Have a Wells Fargo Account?
- If Yes, What Kind?
- Joint Account with an Adult Co-owner (e.g., Way2Save® Savings or Clear Access Banking): This is the most common scenario for minors. If you are the adult co-owner on the account, the process is generally straightforward.
- Custodial Account (e.g., UGMA/UTMA): These accounts are specifically set up for minors, with an adult acting as the custodian. The funds in a custodial account legally belong to the minor, but the custodian manages them until the minor reaches the age of majority.
- Child 17 years or older with an individual account: While less common for younger children, minors aged 17 and older may be able to open an individual checking or savings account at Wells Fargo, though they often still benefit from having an adult co-owner.
- If No, Consider Opening One: If your child doesn't have an account, this check is a perfect opportunity to start their financial journey. Wells Fargo offers accounts specifically designed for young people, such as the Clear Access Banking (for ages 13-24) and Way2Save® Savings (can be opened jointly for minors under 13). Opening an account with an adult co-owner is often required for minors under 17. Remember, a $25 minimum opening deposit is typically required for these accounts.
Step 2: The All-Important Check Endorsement
This is where many people get tripped up. Proper endorsement is key to a successful deposit.
Sub-heading: How to Endorse a Check Written to a Minor
Regardless of the account type, the check usually needs to be endorsed. Here's how it generally works:
- On the back of the check, locate the endorsement area. This is usually a blank space near the top.
- Print your child's full name exactly as it appears on the "Pay to the Order of" line. If their name is "Sarah Jane Smith" on the front, write "Sarah Jane Smith" on the back.
- Immediately below their name, add "Minor" or "By [Your Name], Parent/Guardian." For example:
- Sarah Jane Smith
- Minor
- OR
- Sarah Jane Smith
- By John A. Doe, Parent
- Sign your name below that, exactly as it appears on the account if you are a co-owner.
- (Optional but Recommended) Write the account number. If you know the Wells Fargo account number for your child's account, writing it neatly below your signature can help ensure the check is deposited into the correct account without delay.
Important Note: If the check is written to your child AND you (e.g., "Pay to the Order of John Doe and Jane Doe"), both of you will typically need to endorse the check. If your child is old enough to write their name (usually around 8-10 years old, but depends on their ability), you can have them sign their name, and then you sign as the parent/guardian below it.
Step 3: Choosing Your Deposit Method
Wells Fargo offers several convenient ways to deposit a check. The best method for you will depend on your preference and the account type.
Sub-heading: Option A: Mobile Deposit (Using the Wells Fargo Mobile App)
This is often the easiest and quickest method if you have a smartphone and an eligible Wells Fargo account.
- Open the Wells Fargo Mobile App. Make sure you have the latest version installed on your device.
- Sign On to Your Account. Use your usual Wells Fargo Online username and password.
- Navigate to the Deposit Feature. Look for a "Deposit" or "Deposit Checks" option, usually found in the bottom navigation bar or a quick-access menu.
- Select the Account for Deposit. Choose your child's Wells Fargo account (the joint or custodial account) from the dropdown list.
- Enter the Check Amount. Double-check that the amount you enter matches the amount on the check.
- Endorse the Check for Mobile Deposit. On the back of the endorsed check, write "For Mobile Deposit at Wells Fargo Only" below your signature. Some checks have a checkbox for mobile deposit – if so, check that box.
- Take Photos of the Check.
- Place the check on a dark-colored, plain surface with good lighting.
- Position your camera directly over the check (avoid angles).
- Ensure all four corners of the check are within the guides on your screen.
- Take a clear photo of the front of the check, then the back.
- Review and Confirm. Verify all the information, including the amount and the selected account, then tap "Deposit" or "Submit."
- Confirmation and Retention. You'll receive an on-screen confirmation and often an email. Write "Mobile Deposit" and the date on the front of the physical check. Keep the check in a safe place for 5-7 business days (in case the original is needed for any reason), then you can shred it.
Note on Mobile Deposit Limits: Be aware that mobile deposits may have daily or 30-day limits. If the check amount is very large, you might need to use another method.
Sub-heading: Option B: In-Person Deposit at a Wells Fargo Branch
If you prefer face-to-face assistance or if the check is for a very large amount, visiting a branch is a solid option.
- Prepare the Endorsed Check. Ensure the check is properly endorsed as described in Step 2.
- Gather Necessary Identification. Bring your valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport). If your child is present and has their own ID (if applicable), it's good to bring that too.
- Visit a Wells Fargo Branch. Use the Wells Fargo branch locator online to find the nearest branch.
- Speak with a Teller or Banker. Inform them you wish to deposit a check written to your child into their account. Provide the endorsed check and your ID.
- Fill Out a Deposit Slip (if necessary). While many tellers can process deposits without a physical slip, it's a good habit to fill one out, especially if you want to keep a physical record.
- Receive Your Receipt. The teller will provide a receipt confirming the deposit.
Sub-heading: Option C: Deposit at a Wells Fargo ATM
ATMs can be a convenient option for check deposits, especially outside of banking hours.
- Endorse the Check Properly. As always, ensure the check is correctly endorsed for your child and you as the co-owner/parent.
- Go to a Wells Fargo ATM. Find a Wells Fargo ATM that accepts deposits.
- Insert Your Wells Fargo Debit Card and Enter Your PIN.
- Select "Deposit."
- Choose the Account. Select your child's Wells Fargo account.
- Insert the Check. Follow the on-screen instructions to insert the check into the designated slot. The ATM will usually scan the check and display the amount.
- Verify the Amount. Confirm that the amount displayed by the ATM matches the check amount.
- Confirm the Deposit.
- Take Your Receipt. Always take the receipt for your records.
ATM Deposit Cut-off Times: Be aware that ATM deposits have a cut-off time (often 9:00 PM local time). Deposits made after this time will be processed on the next business day.
Step 4: Understanding Fund Availability
After depositing the check, you'll naturally want to know when the funds will be available.
Sub-heading: Wells Fargo's General Fund Availability Policy
- Wells Fargo generally makes deposited funds available on the first business day after the day they receive your deposit.
- However, for certain deposits (e.g., large amounts, checks from unfamiliar banks, or if your account is new), Wells Fargo may place a hold on the funds. If a hold is placed, they will notify you, and the funds might not be fully available for up to 7 business days.
- Mobile deposits often have immediate confirmation of receipt, but the actual availability of funds follows the same policy.
Sub-heading: Checking Your Child's Account Balance
You can monitor the deposit and fund availability through:
- Wells Fargo Mobile App: Log in and check the account activity.
- Wells Fargo Online: Sign on to your online banking portal.
- Customer Service: Call Wells Fargo customer service if you have questions about a specific deposit or hold.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some common questions parents have about depositing checks for their children at Wells Fargo:
How to open a Wells Fargo account for my child?
You can open a Wells Fargo Way2Save® Savings account for children under 13 as a joint account with an adult co-owner, and for teens 13-17, they can open one individually or with an adult co-owner. All minors under 18 must open accounts at a Wells Fargo branch. You'll need their Social Security Number and valid ID.
How to endorse a check if my child's name is misspelled?
If your child's name is significantly misspelled on the check, you may need to bring proof of identification for your child (like a birth certificate) to a branch and speak with a teller. In some cases, the issuer of the check may need to issue a new one with the correct spelling.
How to deposit a check written to my child if they don't have a Wells Fargo account?
You can deposit the check into your own Wells Fargo account if you are a parent or legal guardian, provided you endorse the check appropriately (e.g., "Pay to the Order of [Your Name], John Doe, Parent of [Child's Name]"). However, opening an account for your child is generally recommended for their financial education.
How to find my child's Wells Fargo account number?
You can find your child's Wells Fargo account number on their monthly statements, by logging into Wells Fargo Online or the mobile app, or by calling Wells Fargo customer service.
How to make a mobile deposit for my child's account?
Ensure you are signed on to the Wells Fargo Mobile App with access to your child's joint or custodial account. Endorse the check with your child's name and "For Mobile Deposit at Wells Fargo Only," then follow the app's prompts to photograph and submit the check.
How to know if funds from a deposited check are available?
Wells Fargo generally makes funds available on the next business day after the deposit. You can check the "Available Balance" in your Wells Fargo Online account or mobile app. If a hold is placed, you will be notified.
How to avoid fees on my child's Wells Fargo account?
For Clear Access Banking, the monthly service fee can be avoided if the primary account owner is 13-24 years old. For Way2Save® Savings, the fee can be avoided if the primary account owner is 24 years old or under, or by maintaining a minimum daily balance.
How to teach my child about managing their money after depositing a check?
Use the deposit as a teaching moment! Discuss where the money came from, how it will grow in the savings account, and set goals for what they might save for. Wells Fargo offers financial education resources that can also be helpful.
How to get a physical deposit slip for a check deposit?
You can usually find blank deposit slips at any Wells Fargo branch or by requesting a "Bank by Mail kit" by phone or online. When depositing at a teller, they may also provide one.
How to contact Wells Fargo customer service for questions about my child's account?
You can contact Wells Fargo customer service by calling the number on their official website (typically 1-800-TO-WELLS or 1-800-869-3557), or by using the secure messaging feature within Wells Fargo Online or the mobile app.
