Hey there! Ever found yourself holding a paper check, thinking, "There has to be an easier way to get this into my Bank of America account than driving to a branch or an ATM?" Well, you're in luck! In this incredibly detailed guide, we're going to walk you through the simple, convenient process of electronically depositing a check with Bank of America. No more rushing to beat bank hours or standing in line!
Let's dive right in and get that check deposited from the comfort of your own home, or wherever you happen to be with your smartphone!
The Power of Mobile Check Deposit: Your Bank in Your Pocket
Bank of America offers a fantastic feature called Mobile Check Deposit, which allows you to deposit checks directly into your eligible checking or savings account using their mobile banking app. It's fast, it's secure, and it's incredibly convenient.
Step 1: Get Ready – Your Prerequisites for a Smooth Deposit
Before we even open the app, let's make sure you have everything you need. This initial setup will save you a lot of time and potential frustration later on.
1.1: Download the Bank of America Mobile Banking App
If you don't already have it, this is your first and most crucial step.
- For iOS (Apple) users: Head to the App Store and search for "Bank of America Mobile Banking."
- For Android users: Go to the Google Play Store and search for "Bank of America Mobile Banking."
Ensure you're downloading the official app from Bank of America to guarantee security and functionality.
1.2: Have Your Bank of America Login Credentials Handy
You'll need your User ID and Password to log into the app. If you've forgotten them, there are options within the app or on the Bank of America website to retrieve or reset them.
1.3: Prepare Your Check for Deposit
This is where many people make small mistakes that can delay their deposit. Pay close attention to these details!
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Endorse Your Check Properly: This is absolutely critical. On the back of the check, typically where it says "Endorse Here," you must sign your name exactly as it appears on the "Pay to the Order of" line on the front of the check.
- Pro Tip: Many banks, including Bank of America, recommend adding "For Mobile Deposit Only at Bank of America" below your signature. This adds an extra layer of security and can sometimes help with faster processing. So, your endorsement might look something like this:
- Your Signature
- For Mobile Deposit Only at Bank of America
- Pro Tip: Many banks, including Bank of America, recommend adding "For Mobile Deposit Only at Bank of America" below your signature. This adds an extra layer of security and can sometimes help with faster processing. So, your endorsement might look something like this:
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Ensure the Check is Flat and Well-Lit: Wrinkled, folded, or poorly lit checks can cause issues with the image capture.
- Find a dark, non-reflective background to place your check on. This helps the camera distinguish the check's edges.
- Make sure there's good, even lighting and no shadows cast over the check.
- Smooth out any creases in the check as much as possible.
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Verify Check Eligibility: While most standard checks are accepted, there are some exceptions. Generally, Bank of America's mobile deposit service accepts:
- Personal checks
- Business checks
- Government checks (like tax refunds)
- Cashier's checks
- Money orders
However, certain types of checks like foreign checks, postal money orders, or checks that are post-dated or stale-dated (too old) are typically not accepted via mobile deposit.
Step 2: Open the App and Initiate the Deposit
Now that you're prepared, let's get into the app!
2.1: Log In to the Bank of America Mobile Banking App
- Open the app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Enter your User ID and Password.
- You might be prompted for a security code if it's a new device or if you have enhanced security settings enabled.
2.2: Navigate to the Deposit Feature
Once logged in, you'll see your account dashboard. There are usually a couple of ways to find the deposit option:
- Look for a "Deposit Checks" or "Deposit" option directly on the main screen or in the bottom navigation bar.
- Alternatively, tap the "Menu" icon (often represented by three horizontal lines or dots) and then select "Deposit Checks" from the expanded menu.
Step 3: Capture Crystal-Clear Images of Your Check
This is the most interactive part of the process and requires a steady hand!
3.1: Take a Picture of the Front of the Check
- The app will typically guide you. You'll see a frame on your screen.
- Position your device directly over the check, ensuring all four corners of the check are visible within the frame.
- Hold your device steady. The app is designed to auto-capture the image when it detects a clear, well-framed picture.
- If auto-capture doesn't work, or if you prefer, there's usually a camera icon you can tap to manually take the photo.
- Once captured, review the image. Make sure it's clear, legible, and that all information on the front of the check (payee, amount, check number, bank name) is easily readable. If not, retake it.
3.2: Take a Picture of the Back of the Endorsed Check
- Flip the check over.
- Repeat the process, positioning your device directly over the endorsed back of the check.
- Again, ensure all four corners are visible and your signature and any "For Mobile Deposit Only" annotation are clear and readable.
- Review the image. Retake if necessary.
Step 4: Enter Deposit Details and Confirm
You're almost there! Just a few more pieces of information.
4.1: Select the Deposit Account
- The app will prompt you to choose which Bank of America account you want the check deposited into (e.g., your checking account or savings account).
- Double-check that you've selected the correct account.
4.2: Enter the Check Amount
- Carefully enter the exact dollar amount of the check.
- Triple-check this amount! A mismatch can cause delays or rejection of your deposit. Some apps may try to auto-detect the amount, but always verify its accuracy.
4.3: Review and Submit Your Deposit
- The app will present a summary of your deposit details: the account, the amount, and the images of the check.
- Take a moment to carefully review all the information.
- Once you're confident everything is correct, tap "Submit" or "Deposit".
Step 5: Confirmation and What Happens Next
Congratulations! Your check is now on its way to being deposited.
5.1: Receive Confirmation
- Immediately after submitting, you'll receive an on-screen confirmation that your deposit is processing.
- Bank of America will also typically send you an email confirmation to the email address on file, confirming they've received your deposit. Keep this email for your records.
5.2: Funds Availability
- Mobile check deposits are subject to verification and are generally not available for immediate withdrawal.
- For most standard mobile deposits made on a business day before the cutoff time (which is typically 9:00 PM ET for Eastern or Central time zones, and 8:00 PM PT for Mountain or Pacific time zones), the funds are usually available by the next business day.
- However, Bank of America, like all banks, may place holds on certain deposits based on factors like the check amount, your account history, or the type of check. In such cases, you will be notified.
- You can check your account activity within the mobile app or online banking to see when the funds become available.
5.3: What to Do with the Paper Check After Deposit
- Do NOT immediately discard your physical check. It's recommended to safeguard the endorsed check for a minimum of 14 calendar days from the date of your mobile deposit.
- This is in case there's any issue with the electronic image or the deposit process, and the bank needs to verify the original check.
- After 14 days, you should destroy the check (shredding is best) or otherwise render it incapable of being deposited again. This prevents any accidental double deposits or potential fraud.
Helpful Tips for a Seamless Experience:
- Good Lighting is Key: We can't stress this enough. Natural, diffused light is often best. Avoid harsh shadows or glare.
- Flat Surface: A perfectly flat surface ensures the camera can capture all details evenly.
- Contrast: A dark background helps the app identify the check's edges.
- Steady Hand: Minimize blur by holding your phone as still as possible.
- Update Your App: Ensure you always have the latest version of the Bank of America mobile banking app for the best performance and security features.
- Check Your Limits: Bank of America has daily and monthly limits for mobile check deposits. These limits can vary based on your account history and relationship with the bank. You can usually find these limits within the app or by contacting customer service.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some common questions about electronically depositing checks with Bank of America:
How to Find the Mobile Deposit Feature in the Bank of America App?
You can typically find the "Deposit Checks" option on the main account dashboard or by tapping the "Menu" icon (often three horizontal lines) and selecting it from the list of services.
How to Endorse a Check for Bank of America Mobile Deposit?
Sign your name on the endorsement line on the back of the check. It's highly recommended to also write "For Mobile Deposit Only at Bank of America" below your signature.
How to Ensure a Good Photo for Mobile Check Deposit?
Place the check on a dark, flat, non-reflective surface in good, even lighting. Hold your phone directly over the check and steady, making sure all four corners are within the frame.
How to Check if My Mobile Deposit Was Successful?
After submitting, you'll receive an on-screen confirmation and an email confirmation from Bank of America. You can also check your account activity within the mobile app or online banking to see the deposit processing.
How to Know When My Mobile Deposit Funds Will Be Available?
Generally, funds deposited before the daily cutoff time (e.g., 9:00 PM ET) on a business day are available the next business day. However, holds may apply, and you'll be notified if so.
How to Find My Daily Mobile Deposit Limit with Bank of America?
Your specific mobile deposit limits can be viewed within the Bank of America mobile banking app, usually within the "Deposit Checks" section or by contacting Bank of America customer service.
How to Deposit a Check if the Mobile App Isn't Working?
If you're experiencing issues with the mobile app, you can still deposit checks at a Bank of America ATM or by visiting a Bank of America financial center in person.
How to Handle a Check After Mobile Deposit?
Safeguard the physical endorsed check for at least 14 days after the mobile deposit. After this period, shred or destroy the check to prevent accidental re-deposit or fraud.
How to Deposit Multiple Checks with Mobile Deposit?
You will need to deposit each check individually. The mobile deposit feature typically processes one check at a time.
How to Get a Receipt for a Mobile Check Deposit?
The on-screen confirmation and the email confirmation from Bank of America serve as your receipts. You typically won't get a physical receipt for mobile deposits unless you specifically request one at an ATM.
