Mastering Mobile Deposits with Wells Fargo: Your Ultimate Guide
Tired of making trips to the bank or ATM just to deposit a check? Imagine being able to handle that chore from the comfort of your couch, during your lunch break, or even while waiting in line at the grocery store. Sounds pretty good, right? Wells Fargo's mobile deposit feature makes this a reality, offering a convenient and secure way to deposit checks using just your smartphone or tablet.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and successful mobile deposit experience. Let's get started!
Step 1: Get Ready to Deposit! (And Check Your Eligibility)
Before you can snap a pic of your check and send it off, there are a few important things to ensure.
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| How To Wells Fargo Mobile Deposit |
1.1 Do You Have the Wells Fargo Mobile App?
This might seem obvious, but it's the most crucial first step. If you don't already have it, head to your device's app store (App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android) and download the Wells Fargo Mobile® app. It's free and essential for mobile deposits.
1.2 Are You an Eligible Wells Fargo Customer?
While most Wells Fargo customers with an eligible checking or savings account can use mobile deposit, it's worth a quick check.
- Generally, if you have a consumer checking or savings account with Wells Fargo and are enrolled in Wells Fargo Online®, you're likely eligible.
- Some accounts, or certain situations, may have restrictions. If you're unsure, you can always contact Wells Fargo customer service or check the "Mobile Deposit FAQs" section on their website.
1.3 Ensure You Have a Good Internet Connection
Whether it's Wi-Fi or cellular data, a stable internet connection is vital for the app to function correctly and transmit your deposit securely.
Step 2: Preparing Your Check for Mobile Deposit
This is a critical step that many people overlook, leading to potential delays or rejections. Proper endorsement is key!
2.1 Sign the Back of Your Check
This is standard for any check deposit. Sign your name exactly as it appears on the "Pay to the Order of" line on the front of the check.
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
2.2 Add the Mobile Deposit Endorsement
This is the most important part for mobile deposits! Directly below your signature, you must write "For Mobile Deposit at Wells Fargo Only".
- Alternatively, if your check has a pre-printed box that says "Check here if mobile deposit," you can simply check that box. This is a newer feature on some checks that simplifies the process.
Why is this endorsement so important? It prevents the check from being deposited again, either accidentally or fraudulently, at another financial institution or ATM. It adds a crucial layer of security to your mobile deposit.
2.3 Detach Any Stubs or Paperwork
Make sure your check is a standalone document. Remove any attached stubs, coupons, or excess paper. This helps ensure a clear photo capture.
Step 3: Opening the App and Initiating Your Deposit
With your check properly endorsed, it's time to fire up the Wells Fargo Mobile app.
3.1 Log In to the Wells Fargo Mobile App
Open the app on your smartphone or tablet. You'll be prompted to sign in using your username and password, or if enabled, your fingerprint or facial recognition.
3.2 Navigate to the Deposit Feature
Once logged in, look for the "Deposit" option. It's usually located in the bottom navigation bar or accessible through a "Deposit Checks" shortcut on the home screen. Tap on it to begin.
3.3 Select the Deposit Account
The app will ask you to choose which Wells Fargo account you want to deposit the check into (e.g., your checking account or savings account). If you have a default account set up, it may be pre-selected. Verify it's the correct one.
Tip: Reread key phrases to strengthen memory.
3.4 Enter the Check Amount
Carefully enter the exact amount of the check into the designated field. Double-check this for accuracy! A mismatch can cause your deposit to be delayed or rejected. The app may also display your remaining daily and 30-day mobile deposit limits on this screen.
Step 4: Taking High-Quality Photos of Your Check
This is where your phone's camera comes into play. The quality of your photos directly impacts whether your deposit is accepted.
4.1 Set Up Your Environment
- Lighting is Key: Place your check on a dark-colored, plain surface that is well-lit. Avoid shadows or glare. Natural light is often best.
- Flat Surface: Ensure the check is lying completely flat, without any folds or wrinkles.
- No Obstructions: Make sure there are no objects or fingers obstructing the check.
4.2 Position Your Camera Correctly
- Directly Overhead: Hold your phone directly over the check, not at an angle.
- Fit All Four Corners: The app will typically provide guides on your screen. Make sure all four corners of the check are visible and within these guides.
- Hold Steady: Keep your hand steady to avoid blurry images.
4.3 Capture the Front of the Check
Tap the camera icon within the app to take a picture of the front of your endorsed check. The app may auto-capture the image once it detects the check within the guides.
4.4 Capture the Back of the Check
Flip the check over and repeat the process for the back, ensuring your signature and the "For Mobile Deposit" endorsement are clearly visible.
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4.5 Review Your Photos
After taking both pictures, the app will usually show you previews. Take a moment to review them. Are they clear? Is all the information legible? If not, retake them. It's better to retake now than have your deposit held or rejected later.
Step 5: Submitting Your Deposit and Confirmation
You're almost there! Once you're satisfied with your photos, it's time to finalize the deposit.
5.1 Confirm Deposit Details
The app will display a summary of your deposit, including the account number, the amount, and the images. Review everything one last time to ensure accuracy.
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
5.2 Tap "Submit" (or similar button)
Once you've confirmed all details are correct, tap the "Submit" or "Deposit" button to send your deposit.
5.3 Receive Confirmation
- On-Screen Confirmation: You'll receive an immediate on-screen confirmation message that your deposit has been received and is processing.
- Email Confirmation: Wells Fargo will also send a deposit confirmation to your primary email address and to your Wells Fargo Online® Message Center secure mailbox. Keep these for your records.
Step 6: What to Do After Your Deposit
Your work isn't done just yet! There's one crucial step to follow to ensure a smooth process and prevent any issues.
6.1 Mark the Check
- On the front of the physical check, write "Mobile Deposit" and the date you deposited it. This prevents you from accidentally trying to deposit it again.
6.2 Securely Store the Check
- Do NOT immediately destroy the check! Wells Fargo recommends securely storing the check for 5 days after your deposit. This allows sufficient time in case the original check is required for any reason (e.g., if there's an issue with the images or verification).
6.3 Destroy the Check
- After the 5-day holding period has passed and you've confirmed the deposit has cleared and the funds are available in your account, securely destroy the check. Shredding is the best method to prevent any misuse of your financial information.
Step 7: Understanding Funds Availability
Once you've submitted your deposit, you'll naturally want to know when your money will be available.
7.1 General Availability
Wells Fargo's general policy is to make deposited funds available on the first business day after they receive the deposit.
7.2 Cut-off Times
- The cut-off time for deposits using the Wells Fargo Mobile app is 9 p.m. Pacific Time.
- If you deposit a check before this cut-off time on a business day, it will generally be credited the same business day. If you deposit after the cut-off time or on a non-business day (weekends or federal holidays), it will be credited on the next business day.
7.3 Deposit Holds
- In some cases, Wells Fargo may place a hold on your deposit, delaying the availability of some or all of the funds for up to 7 business days.
- Common reasons for a hold include:
- Large deposit amounts.
- Frequent overdrafts on your account.
- If a previously deposited check was returned unpaid.
- Indications that a deposited check may not be paid.
- If a hold is placed, you will be notified, and your deposit receipt will include details on the amount held and when it will be available. Generally, $275 of the deposit might be available the next business day even if a hold is placed on the remaining amount.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Wells Fargo Mobile Deposit
Here are 10 common questions with quick answers to help you navigate Wells Fargo mobile deposits.
How to check my Wells Fargo mobile deposit limits?
Your daily and 30-day mobile deposit limits are typically displayed on the screen within the Wells Fargo Mobile app when you are entering the check amount for your deposit. You can also find this information in the Mobile Deposit FAQs on the Wells Fargo website or by calling customer service.
How to endorse a check for Wells Fargo mobile deposit?
Sign the back of your check and write "For Mobile Deposit at Wells Fargo Only" directly below your signature. Alternatively, if there's a pre-printed box that says "Check here if mobile deposit," simply check that box.
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
How to troubleshoot if my Wells Fargo mobile deposit isn't working?
Ensure you have a stable internet connection, that your check is properly endorsed, and that your photos are clear and well-lit. Check your app permissions to ensure camera access is enabled. If problems persist, try restarting the app or your device, or contact Wells Fargo customer support.
How to find the Wells Fargo mobile app?
You can find the Wells Fargo Mobile app by searching for "Wells Fargo" in the App Store (for Apple devices) or the Google Play Store (for Android devices).
How to know if my Wells Fargo mobile deposit went through?
You will receive an immediate on-screen confirmation in the app, and a confirmation email will be sent to your primary email address and to your Wells Fargo Online® Message Center secure mailbox.
How to make sure my check photos are clear for mobile deposit?
Place your check on a dark, plain surface that is well-lit. Hold your camera directly over the check, ensuring all four corners are within the app's guides. Avoid shadows, glare, and blurry images.
How to tell what types of checks are accepted for Wells Fargo mobile deposit?
Most standard personal and business checks are accepted. However, certain types of checks, such as international checks, money orders, or checks that are post-dated or stale-dated, may not be eligible for mobile deposit. Refer to the Wells Fargo Mobile Deposit FAQs for a detailed list.
How to get help with a Wells Fargo mobile deposit hold?
If a hold is placed on your deposit, you will receive a notification. For specific questions or concerns about a hold, you can contact Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557).
How to securely dispose of a check after mobile deposit?
After the 5-day holding period and confirmation that funds are available, securely shred the check. Do not simply tear it up or throw it in the trash.
How to prevent common errors with Wells Fargo mobile deposit?
Always ensure correct endorsement, accurately enter the check amount, take clear and well-lit photos, and verify all details before submitting. Double-checking these steps will significantly reduce the chances of errors or delays.
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