You've got money and you want to put it into your Wells Fargo account. Great choice! Whether it's cash, a check, or a digital transfer, Wells Fargo offers several convenient ways to deposit funds. Let's walk through the different methods step-by-step so you can choose the one that's best for you and get your money where it needs to be.
Step 1: Identify Your Deposit Type – What kind of money are you putting in?
Before we dive into the "how," let's figure out the "what." Are you depositing physical cash, a paper check, or is this money coming from another bank or source digitally? The method you choose will depend on the type of funds you have.
- Cash: Physical currency (bills and coins).
- Check: A paper check, whether it's a personal check, business check, or government check.
- Digital Transfer/Direct Deposit: Money coming directly from an employer, another bank account, or a payment service.
Once you know what you're depositing, we can move on to the specific instructions.
Step 2: Choose Your Deposit Method – Convenience is Key!
Wells Fargo provides multiple avenues for depositing money, each with its own advantages.
Sub-heading: Depositing Cash
There are a couple of primary ways to deposit physical cash into your Wells Fargo account:
- At a Wells Fargo ATM: This is often the quickest and most convenient option for cash deposits, especially outside of banking hours.
- At a Wells Fargo Branch: For those who prefer personal interaction or have a large sum, a branch visit is a reliable choice.
Sub-heading: Depositing Checks
Checks offer even more flexibility for deposits:
- Wells Fargo Mobile App (Mobile Deposit): Extremely popular for its ease and convenience – deposit checks using your smartphone!
- At a Wells Fargo ATM: Similar to cash, ATMs accept check deposits.
- At a Wells Fargo Branch: A traditional method for depositing checks with the help of a teller.
- Mail: While less common for everyday use, you can also mail checks for deposit.
Sub-heading: Digital Transfers and Direct Deposit
For money coming from other sources, these methods are entirely electronic:
- Direct Deposit: Ideal for recurring income like paychecks, Social Security, or pension payments.
- Online Transfers (from another bank): Transferring funds from an account you hold at a different financial institution to your Wells Fargo account.
- Wire Transfers: For larger, time-sensitive transfers, often internationally.
- Zelle®: For quick, person-to-person payments within the U.S. (though usually for receiving, not directly "putting money in" in the traditional sense of a deposit).
Step 3: Step-by-Step Guides for Each Method
Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to execute each deposit type.
Method A: Depositing Cash or Checks at a Wells Fargo ATM
This is a very popular and straightforward method.
- Locate a Wells Fargo ATM: Use the Wells Fargo mobile app or their website to find the nearest ATM. Many ATMs are available 24/7.
- Insert Your Debit Card: Insert your Wells Fargo debit card into the ATM card slot.
- Enter Your PIN: Carefully enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN).
- Select "Deposit": On the main menu, choose the "Deposit" option.
- Choose Account: Select the account you wish to deposit into (e.g., Checking or Savings).
- Insert Cash/Checks:
- For Cash: Insert your bills directly into the designated cash slot. The ATM will count them instantly.
- For Checks: Insert your endorsed check(s) into the check slot. The ATM will scan the checks.
- Verify Amount: The ATM screen will display the amount it counted for cash or scanned for checks. Carefully review this amount. If it's incorrect, most ATMs allow you to adjust it.
- Confirm Deposit: Once you've verified the amount, confirm the deposit.
- Receive Receipt: Choose to receive a printed receipt. This receipt is your proof of deposit and will often include images of the checks you deposited.
- Retrieve Card: Don't forget to take your debit card!
- Important Note on ATM Limits: Wells Fargo ATMs generally have limits on the total dollar amount of checks that can be deposited per transaction, often declining deposits exceeding $1 million. There may also be limits on the dollar amount or frequency of cash deposits.
Method B: Depositing Cash or Checks at a Wells Fargo Branch
For a more traditional banking experience:
- Locate a Wells Fargo Branch: Find the nearest branch using the Wells Fargo website or app. Check their operating hours.
- Prepare Your Deposit Slip (Optional but Recommended): While tellers can usually assist, having a pre-filled deposit slip can speed up the process. You can usually find these in the branch lobby or sometimes print one from your online banking account.
- Include your account number, the date, and the amount of cash and/or checks separately.
- Endorse Your Check(s) (If Applicable): If depositing a check, sign the back of the check. You might also want to write "For Deposit Only" below your signature.
- Approach a Teller: Wait in line and approach an available teller.
- Present Your Items: Hand your cash, endorsed checks, and deposit slip (if using one) to the teller.
- Verify Transaction: The teller will process your deposit and confirm the amount. Verify the amount before leaving the counter.
- Receive Receipt: The teller will provide you with a printed receipt. Keep this for your records.
- Teller Assistance: Don't hesitate to ask the teller any questions you may have about your deposit or account.
Method C: Mobile Deposit via the Wells Fargo Mobile App (Checks Only)
This is a game-changer for convenience!
- Download the Wells Fargo Mobile App: If you haven't already, download the official Wells Fargo Mobile® app from your device's app store (Apple App Store or Google Play).
- Sign On: Log in to your Wells Fargo account using your username and password or biometric authentication (fingerprint/Face ID).
- Navigate to "Deposit": Look for a "Deposit" or "Deposit Checks" option, usually found in the bottom navigation bar or main menu.
- Select Account: Choose the Wells Fargo checking or savings account where you want to deposit the check.
- Enter Amount: Carefully enter the exact dollar amount of the check. Double-check for accuracy!
- Endorse Your Check: This is a critical step. Sign the back of your check. Below your signature, write "For Mobile Deposit at Wells Fargo Only" (or check the pre-printed box if available). Failing to do this can cause delays or rejection of your deposit.
- Take Photos of the Check:
- Front: Place the check on a dark, plain, well-lit surface. Position your camera directly over the check, ensuring all four corners fit within the on-screen guides. Take a clear, well-focused picture.
- Back: Flip the check over and take a clear picture of the endorsed back, again making sure all four corners are visible.
- Review and Submit: Review the images and the deposit details. If everything looks correct, submit your deposit.
- Confirmation: You'll receive a confirmation message in the app for a successful deposit.
- Keep and Destroy Check: Write "Mobile Deposit" and the date on the front of the physical check. Store it in a safe place for 5 days in case the original is needed, then destroy it.
- Mobile Deposit Limits: Mobile deposits are subject to daily and per-check limits. These limits can vary based on your account history and relationship with Wells Fargo. The app will generally inform you if you're approaching or exceeding a limit.
Method D: Setting Up Direct Deposit (For Recurring Income)
This is for automated, recurring payments.
- Gather Your Wells Fargo Account Information: You'll need your Wells Fargo account number and the Wells Fargo routing number.
- You can find these by signing into Wells Fargo Online, using the Wells Fargo Mobile app (under Account Details), or on a paper check (bottom left corner).
- Obtain a Direct Deposit Form: Your employer, Social Security administration, or pension provider will have their own direct deposit form. Wells Fargo also offers a pre-filled Direct Deposit guide that you can generate through their mobile app or online banking, which contains your account and routing numbers.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the direct deposit form with your personal details, your Wells Fargo account and routing numbers, and the amount or percentage of your pay you want direct deposited.
- Submit the Form: Provide the completed form to your employer's HR or payroll department, or the relevant agency (e.g., Social Security Administration).
- Monitor Your Account: It may take one or two pay cycles for direct deposit to go into effect. Always monitor your account to ensure the deposits begin as expected. You can set up alerts in Wells Fargo Online or the mobile app to notify you when a direct deposit is received.
- Early Pay Day: Wells Fargo may make certain direct deposits available to you one to two business days before they officially receive the funds from the payor. This is an added benefit for eligible direct deposits!
Method E: Transferring Money from Another Bank (Online Transfer)
If you have funds at another financial institution that you want to move to Wells Fargo:
- Sign On to Wells Fargo Online: Access your Wells Fargo Online® account from a desktop computer or the mobile app.
- Navigate to "Transfers": Look for a "Transfer & Pay" or "Transfers" section.
- Add Non-Wells Fargo Account: You'll need to link your external bank account to your Wells Fargo account. This usually involves clicking "Add Non-Wells Fargo Accounts" or a similar option.
- You'll typically need the external bank's routing number and your account number at that institution.
- Verification Process: Wells Fargo will usually initiate small "micro-deposits" (e.g., two small amounts like $0.15 and $0.23) into your external account. You'll need to verify these amounts in Wells Fargo Online to confirm ownership of the external account. This verification can take 1-3 business days.
- Initiate Transfer: Once the external account is linked, you can select it as the "from" account and your Wells Fargo account as the "to" account.
- Enter Amount and Frequency: Specify the amount you wish to transfer and whether it's a one-time transfer or a recurring one.
- Review and Confirm: Review all the transfer details carefully before submitting.
- Processing Time: Transfers between banks can take 1-3 business days to process. Transfers from an external account to Wells Fargo typically take 3 business days initially.
- Fees: While Wells Fargo generally doesn't charge for incoming ACH transfers, your other bank might. It's always a good idea to check with both institutions.
Method F: Receiving a Wire Transfer
Wire transfers are for larger, faster, and often international transfers.
- Provide Sender with Wells Fargo Wire Details: To receive a wire transfer, you'll need to give the sender specific information about Wells Fargo and your account.
- For Domestic Wire Transfers:
- Bank Name: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
- Bank Address: 420 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94104 (this is the main corporate address, regardless of your branch location)
- Wire Routing Transit Number (ABA / RTN): 121000248
- Your Account Number: Your complete Wells Fargo account number (including leading zeros)
- Your Account Name and Address: The name and address on your Wells Fargo account as it appears on your statement.
- For International Wire Transfers:
- Bank Name: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
- Bank Address: 420 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94104
- SWIFT / BIC code: WFBIUS6S
- Your Account Number: Your complete Wells Fargo account number (including leading zeros)
- Your Account Name and Address: The name and address on your Wells Fargo account as it appears on your statement.
- The sender may also need your International Bank Account Number (IBAN) if applicable for their country.
- For Domestic Wire Transfers:
- Funds Availability: Wire transfers are generally available the same business day they are received by Wells Fargo, provided they are received before the cutoff time.
- Monitoring: Monitor your account activity online or through the mobile app for the incoming wire.
- Receiving Fees: For consumer and non-analyzed business accounts, there is typically no fee to receive a wire transfer at Wells Fargo.
Step 4: Confirm Your Deposit – Peace of Mind!
No matter which method you use, always confirm your deposit.
- Check Your Online Banking/Mobile App: The easiest way to verify is to log in to Wells Fargo Online or the Wells Fargo Mobile app and check your account activity. Deposits will typically show up as "pending" before they are fully posted.
- Keep Receipts: If you made a physical deposit (ATM or branch), keep your receipt until you see the funds fully reflected in your available balance.
- Set Up Alerts: Consider setting up account alerts through Wells Fargo Online or the mobile app. You can receive notifications via email, text, or push notification when a deposit is made to your account. This is a great way to stay on top of your finances!
By following these detailed steps, you can confidently put money into your Wells Fargo account using the method that suits your needs best. Happy banking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check my Wells Fargo routing number?
You can find your Wells Fargo routing number by signing into Wells Fargo Online, through the Wells Fargo Mobile app (under your account details), or on a paper check (the first 9 digits on the bottom left).
How to find a Wells Fargo ATM near me?
You can easily find a Wells Fargo ATM or branch near you by using the "Locations" feature within the Wells Fargo Mobile app or by visiting the "ATM & Branch Locator" section on the Wells Fargo website.
How to mobile deposit a check with two payees?
If a check is payable to two individuals (e.g., "John Doe AND Jane Doe"), both payees typically need to endorse the check for mobile deposit. If it says "John Doe OR Jane Doe," usually only one endorsement is sufficient. Check Wells Fargo's specific guidelines or contact them for clarification on such checks.
How to increase my mobile deposit limit?
Mobile deposit limits are set based on various factors, including your account history and relationship with Wells Fargo. To inquire about increasing your limit, you may need to contact Wells Fargo customer service or visit a branch.
How to set up direct deposit for my paycheck?
To set up direct deposit for your paycheck, you'll need your Wells Fargo account number and routing number. Provide these to your employer's HR or payroll department, usually by filling out their direct deposit authorization form.
How to transfer money from another bank to Wells Fargo online?
First, you'll need to link your external bank account to your Wells Fargo Online account by providing the external bank's routing and account numbers and completing a micro-deposit verification process. Once linked, you can initiate transfers directly from your Wells Fargo online banking portal.
How to send money to a Wells Fargo account via Zelle®?
If someone wants to send you money via Zelle®, they just need your email address or U.S. mobile phone number associated with your Wells Fargo account. You don't need to do anything specific to "put" the money in; it will automatically be deposited into your Wells Fargo account once sent by the other party.
How to get a deposit slip for my Wells Fargo account?
You can usually find blank deposit slips at any Wells Fargo branch lobby. Some banks may also allow you to print a pre-filled deposit slip from your online banking account.
How to know when my deposited funds will be available?
Generally, cash deposits and most direct deposits are available the same business day. For check deposits (ATM, mobile, or branch), funds may be available the same day or the next business day, though holds can be placed for various reasons. Your deposit receipt or online account activity will show the availability date.
How to contact Wells Fargo customer service for deposit questions?
You can contact Wells Fargo customer service by calling the number on the back of your debit card, or by finding their contact information on the official Wells Fargo website, typically under the "Contact Us" section.
