Is your wallet feeling a little lighter after that recent check? Don't want to make a trip to the bank or ATM? Good news! With Wells Fargo's mobile deposit feature, you can turn that paper check into digital dollars right from the comfort of your couch (or anywhere else you have your phone and an internet connection!). It's a fantastic way to save time and streamline your banking.
Ready to dive in and learn exactly how to make those mobile deposits with Wells Fargo? Let's get started!
Step 1: Prepare Your Device and Your Check
Before you even open the app, there are a couple of crucial things to get in order to ensure a smooth deposit.
- A. Get the Wells Fargo Mobile App: First things first! If you don't already have it, download the Wells Fargo Mobile® app from your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS). Make sure you have the latest version for optimal performance and security.
- B. Ensure a Strong Connection: You'll need a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi is usually best) to process the deposit without interruption.
- C. Prepare Your Check for Endorsement: This is absolutely critical for a successful mobile deposit.
- Sign the back of your check. This is your standard endorsement.
- Write "For Mobile Deposit at Wells Fargo Only" below your signature. This is a specific requirement for mobile deposits and helps prevent the check from being deposited again elsewhere.
- Alternatively, if your check has a pre-printed box that reads "Check here if mobile deposit," simply check that box instead of writing the phrase.
Step 2: Logging In and Initiating the Deposit
Now that your check is ready, it's time to open the app and begin the deposit process.
- A. Open the Wells Fargo Mobile App: Locate the app icon on your device and tap to open it.
- B. Sign On Securely: You'll be prompted to sign on using your username and password, or if enabled, biometric authentication like fingerprint or facial recognition. Always ensure you are using a secure connection and a trusted device.
- C. Navigate to the Deposit Feature: Once logged in, look for an option like "Deposit" or "Deposit Checks" on the main menu or bottom navigation bar. Tap on it.
Step 3: Entering Deposit Details
This step involves telling Wells Fargo what account the check is for and how much money is on it.
- A. Select the Deposit Account: A list of your eligible Wells Fargo accounts will appear. Carefully select the account where you want the funds to be deposited (e.g., your checking or savings account). If you only have one eligible account, it might be automatically selected. You can also set a default account for future deposits if you wish.
- B. Enter the Check Amount: Accurately type in the exact dollar amount of the check. Double-check this figure to avoid any discrepancies that could delay your deposit.
Step 4: Capturing Clear Images of Your Check
This is where your phone's camera comes into play. Taking good, clear images is paramount.
- A. Position Your Check: Lay your endorsed check flat on a dark, plain surface with good lighting. Avoid busy backgrounds or shadows.
- B. Open Your Device's Camera within the App: The app will guide you to take a photo of the front of the check.
- Hold your device steady and directly over the check, not at an angle.
- Ensure all four corners of the check are visible within the guides on your screen. The app may automatically capture the image when it detects a clear shot, or you may need to tap the camera icon manually.
- C. Capture the Back of the Check: After successfully capturing the front, the app will prompt you to turn the check over and repeat the process for the back of the endorsed check. Again, ensure all four corners are visible and the image is clear.
- D. Review Images: The app will display the captured images. Take a moment to review them. Are they clear? Is all the information readable? If not, you'll have the option to retake the photos. Blurry images or incomplete checks are common reasons for deposit rejections.
Step 5: Review and Submit Your Deposit
You're almost there! This is the final confirmation stage.
- A. Review Deposit Details: The app will present a summary of your deposit, including the account selected, the amount, and the images. Verify everything one last time.
- B. Tap "Submit" or "Deposit": Once you are confident that all the information is correct and the images are clear, tap the "Submit" or "Deposit" button to finalize the transaction.
- C. Receive Confirmation: You will receive an immediate confirmation message on your device that your deposit is processing. Wells Fargo will also typically send a deposit confirmation to your primary email address and your Wells Fargo Online® Message Center secure mailbox.
Step 6: Safely Store and Then Destroy Your Check
Even after a successful mobile deposit, your physical check still holds some importance.
- A. Write "Mobile Deposit" and the Date: On the front of your physically deposited check, write "Mobile deposit" and the date you made the deposit. This helps you keep track.
- B. Store Securely: Keep the physical check in a safe place for at least 5 business days. This is a crucial step in case the original check is required for any reason (e.g., if there's an issue with the electronic deposit).
- C. Destroy the Check: After 5 business days and once you've confirmed the funds are available in your account, shred or otherwise securely destroy the check. This prevents any accidental re-deposits or fraudulent use.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wells Fargo Mobile Deposit:
Here are 10 common questions related to Wells Fargo mobile deposits, with quick answers to help you out:
How to check if my account is eligible for mobile deposit? Generally, most consumer checking and savings accounts are eligible. You can usually confirm eligibility within the Wells Fargo Mobile app itself or by contacting Wells Fargo customer service.
How to find my daily mobile deposit limit? Deposit limits can vary by customer and account. You can typically find your specific daily and monthly mobile deposit limits by signing on to Wells Fargo Online or the Wells Fargo Mobile® app, or by calling the number on the back of your card.
How to endorse a check specifically for Wells Fargo mobile deposit? Sign the back of your check and write "For Mobile Deposit at Wells Fargo Only" below your signature. If your check has a pre-printed "Check here if mobile deposit" box, simply check that box instead.
How to ensure a clear image for mobile deposit? Place the check on a dark, plain, well-lit surface. Hold your phone directly over the check, ensuring all four corners are within the camera guides. Avoid shadows and glare.
How to tell when my mobile deposit funds will be available? Deposits made before the cutoff time (typically 9 p.m. Pacific Time for mobile deposits) are generally credited the same business day. However, funds may be subject to holds. You'll receive a notification if a hold is placed, detailing when funds will be available.
How to resolve a "deposit rejected" message on the app? This can happen due to poor image quality or a misread check. Try retaking the photos ensuring they are clear and all information is readable. If it persists, contact Wells Fargo customer service for assistance.
How to avoid fees related to mobile deposits? For most Wells Fargo customers, there is no fee to use the mobile deposit service. However, always review your account disclosures for any specific fee information.
How to know if a hold has been placed on my mobile deposit? If a hold is placed, you'll usually be notified on your deposit receipt, or via email/Wells Fargo Online Message Center. This notification will indicate the amount held and when it will be available.
How to deal with a check that has already been deposited via mobile? Once you've made a mobile deposit, write "Mobile deposit" and the date on the front of the physical check and store it securely for 5 business days before destroying it. Do not attempt to deposit it again at an ATM or branch, as this will lead to issues.
How to contact Wells Fargo for mobile deposit issues? You can reach Wells Fargo customer service by calling the number on the back of your card or by visiting their website for contact information. You can also send them a secure message through your Wells Fargo Online account.
