So, you're looking to fund your Fidelity Investments account with a good old-fashioned check? While digital transfers and mobile deposits have become incredibly popular, sending a check by mail is still a reliable and secure option for many. Whether you're making a contribution to your IRA, funding a brokerage account, or adding to a 529 plan, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process.
Ready to get that money working for you? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Identify Your Account Type and Purpose
Before you even touch your checkbook, it's crucial to know exactly which Fidelity account you're sending the money to and what the purpose of the deposit is. This will determine the correct payee for your check and potentially which form you need to include.
Sub-heading: Why This Matters
Different Fidelity accounts (e.g., brokerage, mutual fund, retirement, 529) often have specific mailing addresses and payee instructions. Sending it to the wrong place or with the wrong payee can significantly delay your deposit.
Sub-heading: Common Account Types and Their Payees
Brokerage, Cash Management, and 529 accounts: Make checks payable to "Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC"
Mutual Fund Accounts: Make checks payable to the specific Fidelity fund name, such as "Fidelity Government Cash Reserves"
Retirement Accounts (all types - Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, SEP IRA, 401(k), etc.): Make checks payable to "Fidelity Investments"
Annuities: Make checks payable to "Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company" (or "Empire Fidelity Investments" for New York residents)
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Make checks payable to "Fidelity Management Trust Company" (or "FMTC"), "FBO [your name]"
Step 2: Gather Necessary Forms and Information
While a simple check might seem straightforward, Fidelity often recommends or requires specific forms to accompany your deposit, especially for retirement contributions or certain account types.
Sub-heading: Essential Information for Your Check
Regardless of forms, always remember to write your Fidelity account number clearly in the memo field of your check. If it's a contribution to a retirement account, also include the contribution year (e.g., "IRA Contribution 2025").
Sub-heading: Identifying and Obtaining Required Forms
Deposit Slip (PDF): This is a general deposit form that can be used for various account types. You can usually find and print this directly from the Fidelity website under "Customer Service" or "Deposit a Check by Mail."
401(k) Contribution Remittance Form (PDF): If you're specifically making a self-employed 401(k) contribution, this form is likely needed.
Non-Prototype Retirement Account Form (PDF): For certain retirement accounts, a specific form might be required.
Annuity Additional Purchase Form (PDF): If you're adding to an existing annuity.
Pro Tip: If you're unsure which form you need, or even if you need one at all, it's always best to visit the Fidelity website or contact their customer service. They have pre-printed deposit slips available as well, which can be convenient.
Step 3: Properly Prepare Your Check
This is where attention to detail pays off! A correctly prepared check will ensure your deposit is processed swiftly and without issues.
Sub-heading: Making Your Check Payable
Based on Step 1, ensure you write the correct payee in the "Pay to the order of" line. Double-check the spelling!
Sub-heading: Writing Your Account Number and Purpose
In the memo line (usually at the bottom left), clearly write your Fidelity account number.
Example: "Account #123-456789" For retirement contributions, also specify the year.
Example: "IRA Contribution 2025 - Account #123-456789"
Sub-heading: Endorsing Your Check
Checks payable to Fidelity: Generally, checks made payable directly to "Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC," "Fidelity Investments," or a specific Fidelity fund name do not require your endorsement.
Checks payable to you (second-party checks): If the check is made out to you (or one or more Fidelity account owners), you must endorse it. This usually means signing the back of the check. Fidelity also recommends writing "For Deposit Only to my Fidelity Account" below your signature.
Important Note on Third-Party Checks: Fidelity generally does not accept third-party checks (checks made payable to someone who is not an account owner).
Step 4: Choose Your Mailing Method
Fidelity offers both regular U.S. mail and express/overnight mail options, each with different addresses. Your choice will depend on how quickly you need the funds to reach your account.
Sub-heading: Standard U.S. Mail Addresses
For most deposits, standard mail is sufficient. Allow approximately five business days for delivery.
Brokerage, 529, and Mutual Fund Accounts:
Fidelity Investments PO Box 770001 Cincinnati, OH 45277-0003 Self-employed 401(k) Contribution Remittance:
Fidelity Investments PO Box 770001 Cincinnati, OH 45277-0003 Non-Prototype Retirement Account:
Fidelity Investments PO Box 770001 Cincinnati, OH 45277-0048 An
nuities (Outside New York): Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company Annuity Service Center PO Box 770001 Cincinnati, OH 45277-0050 Annuities (New York Residents Only): Empire Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company Annuity Service Center PO Box 770001 Cincinnati, OH 45277-0051
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Fidelity Investments PO Box 770001 Cincinnati, OH 45277-0047
Sub-heading: Overnight/Certified Mail Addresses
If time is of the essence, use one of these addresses.
Brokerage and Mutual Fund Accounts (including HSAs): Fidelity Investments 100 Crosby Parkway, KC1H Covington, KY 41015
All Other Accounts (including Retirement and Annuities): Use the same addresses as the U.S. mail option, but ensure you select an overnight or certified mail service that delivers to a PO Box if the address is a PO Box. Always confirm with your chosen mail carrier if they deliver to P.O. Boxes for express services.
Step 5: Package and Mail Your Check
Once your check is prepared and you have any necessary forms, it's time to send it off!
Sub-heading: What to Include in the Envelope
Your properly prepared check (payable to the correct entity, with your account number in the memo).
Any required or recommended forms, such as the Fidelity Deposit Slip. Ensure these forms are completed accurately and signed where necessary.
Sub-heading: Sending It Off
Place all documents securely in an envelope. Use the correct mailing address identified in Step 4. If using certified or express mail, retain your tracking number for your records.
Step 6: Track Your Deposit
After mailing, it's a good idea to keep an eye on your Fidelity account to confirm the deposit has been processed.
Sub-heading: When to Expect Your Funds
Standard Mail: Allow approximately 5 business days for mail delivery, plus 1-2 business days for processing once Fidelity receives it.
Overnight/Certified Mail: Funds are typically processed within 1 business day of receipt.
Availability: While the deposit may show in your account quickly, there might be an additional hold period before the funds are available for withdrawal or certain types of trades. Fidelity will usually indicate the availability of funds for your specific account.
Sub-heading: Checking Your Account
Log in to your Fidelity account online or use the Fidelity mobile app. Navigate to your "Account History" or "Activity" to see if the deposit has posted. You should see it listed as "Check Received" or similar.
Congratulations! You've successfully sent a check to Fidelity Investments. By following these steps carefully, you can ensure your funds reach their destination smoothly and efficiently.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Fidelity account number?
You can find your Fidelity account number by logging into your Fidelity.com account, navigating to your "Portfolio Summary," or by checking a recent statement.
How to endorse a check for mobile deposit to Fidelity?
For checks deposited via the Fidelity mobile app, endorse the back with your signature and "For Deposit Only to my Fidelity Account." Institutional checks (e.g., from a 401k plan) payable to Fidelity Management Trust Company (FMTC)/FBO [account holder's name] do not require endorsement.
How to set up direct deposit to Fidelity?
You can set up direct deposit by providing your employer or payer with your Fidelity account's routing (ABA) number and account number. These can be found on Fidelity.com under "Direct Deposit and Direct Debit Information" or on your "Portfolio Summary" page.
How to transfer money electronically to Fidelity (ACH)?
You can set up an electronic funds transfer (EFT), also known as an ACH transfer, between your bank account and Fidelity online. Log in to Fidelity.com, go to "Transfers," and select "Deposit" or "Transfer." You'll need to link your bank account, which may involve a verification process.
How to find Fidelity's routing number for transfers?
Fidelity's routing number for incoming electronic transfers (ACH) is available on their website, typically on the "Direct Deposit and Direct Debit Information" page, or by selecting your account on your "Portfolio Summary" page and looking for "Routing Number." It will depend on whether it's a brokerage account, mutual fund, etc.
How to roll over an old 401(k) to Fidelity?
To roll over an old 401(k) to Fidelity, you'll typically open a Rollover IRA with Fidelity. Then, you'll initiate the rollover with your former employer or plan administrator, instructing them to send the funds directly to Fidelity (a direct rollover).
How to make a wire transfer to Fidelity?
To wire funds to Fidelity, you'll initiate the transfer from your external bank or financial institution. You'll need Fidelity's wire instructions, which include the receiving bank's name (e.g., J.P. Morgan Chase), their routing number, and your Fidelity account's credit information (National Financial Services LLC or Fidelity Group of Funds, followed by your Fidelity account number). These instructions are available on Fidelity.com.
How to deposit a check using the Fidelity mobile app?
Open the Fidelity mobile app, log in, select the account you want to deposit to, and look for a "Deposit a Check" or "Mobile Deposit" option. You'll then take photos of the front and back of your endorsed check and follow the on-screen prompts.
How to confirm if my mailed check to Fidelity has cleared?
You can confirm if your mailed check has cleared by logging into your Fidelity account online or via the mobile app and checking your "Account History" or "Activity" for the relevant account. Once processed, it will appear as a deposit.
How to get a Medallion Signature Guarantee for Fidelity forms?
A Medallion Signature Guarantee is typically obtained from a bank, credit union, or other financial institution where you have an account. It's a special form of authentication that verifies your signature for financial transactions and is often required for high-value transfers or certain account changes. Fidelity Investor Centers may also provide this service if all signers are present.
