How to deposit a check in person, at an ATM, with a smartphone or by mail

In today's digital world, paper checks have become rarer. Yet this payment method still exists. Whether you're receiving a gift from a family member, selling furniture to a neighbor, collecting rent for your investment property or working a job where the boss prefers sending checks, you may still need to cash or deposit a check.

Knowing how to deposit a check properly — and the different ways you can do it — can help you get your money quickly and avoid unnecessary fees.

Preparing a check for deposit

First, inspect your check to make sure everything is accurate. Verify that your name is spelled correctly and that the check is for the right dollar amount. If there are any errors, you need the other party to fix them before you make the deposit.

Next, sign the check. Flip the check over so you're looking at the back of it. A line should be at the top; some even indicate "endorse here." Sign your name.

Your check is now ready to deposit in your checking account.

How to deposit a check at a bank

You could deposit your check in person at a bank branch. A teller or personal banker can walk you through the process.

1. Fill out a deposit slip

Most banks have blank deposit slips you can fill out. Write down your name, bank account number and the deposit amount in the spots indicated. If you have multiple checks, list them separately. Indicate if you want any cash back and how much. Tally the total of your transaction. You may need to sign the slip.

2. Give the slip and checks to the banker

A bank representative will process the transaction. They may ask for your driver's license or debit card to verify your identity. If all looks good, they'll accept the deposit for your account.

3. Collect your receipt

You'll get a receipt showing the deposit has been made into your account. It may also reflect your new available balance. Review the receipt and keep it in case you notice a discrepancy.

How to deposit a check at an ATM

Can you deposit a check at an ATM? Yes, it's a convenient and secure way to make a deposit outside regular banking hours.

1. Find an appropriate ATM

Use an ATM part of your network to avoid bank fees and payment delays. Out-of-network bank ATMs generally don't accept check deposits from people who aren't customers. If they do, the ATM might take longer to process the deposit or charge you an extra fee.

2. Insert your debit card and select "deposit"

Insert your card and enter your PIN as usual. The screen should give you the option to make a deposit.

3. Enter the deposit amount

Some ATMs ask you to manually input the amount of each check you're depositing. Others can scan your checks and gather the information automatically.

4. Insert your checks

The ATM will ask you to insert the checks into the deposit slot. It will then ask you to confirm the amount. If all looks good, approve the transaction.

5. Take your receipt

Take your receipt and retain it since machines can make errors.

How to deposit a check with a smartphone app

Your bank may provide a smartphone app with mobile check deposit. If so, here's how that process works.

1. Log in to your account

Look for the mobile check deposit feature once you're logged in. This could also be an excellent time to review your online banking security.

2. Prepare the check for mobile app deposit

Your bank's mobile app may require you to endorse the check differently than only signing your name on the back. You may need to add "For mobile deposit" or something similar near your signature.

3. Take a photo of your check

Make sure the app is allowed to access your mobile device's camera. You'll likely need to take a photo of both the front and back of the check. The app will indicate if the check has been accepted. If so, you've completed the deposit.

4. Keep the check for a while

You may get an emailed receipt of the transaction if your bank offers that service, but the check itself can serve as your receipt. Keep it in a safe, secure place until you've verified the deposit was successful, then destroy it.

How to deposit a check via the postal service

Your bank may allow you to deposit checks by mail. You might use this option if you're far away from your bank's ATMs and branches and don't have access to the mobile app.

1. Fill out a deposit slip

You can use the deposit slips that come with books of checks, if you have them, or you may have a stash of blank slips from your bank. If not, you can use an online service like checkdeposit.io or use a piece of paper to write down your name, account number and the other details that would be on a deposit slip.

2. Prepare the envelope

Use your bank's mailing address — generally not a post office box — for mail-in deposits. Address the envelope, making sure to include your return address in case it's undeliverable. Seal your endorsed check and deposit slip inside the envelope and attach the necessary postage.

3. Mail it

You can use any method to get your envelope to the post office, whether it's putting it in a post box, handing it to your mail delivery person or taking it to a facility directly. You may want to consider paying extra for certified mail, which allows you to track delivery and requires someone at the bank to acknowledge receipt of your envelope.

Other considerations about depositing checks

When you get a paper check, don't delay depositing it. The other party may appreciate a timely transaction so they can keep their account balanced. Checks can also expire, and your bank may not accept them after that point. Expiration dates are often printed on the face of the check and may vary from 90 days to six months.

With all the options for depositing, however, you can quickly and easily get your check into your account and be on your way.

Ready to open a checking account? Learn more about Citizens checking account offerings, including convenient banking with the Citizens mobile app¹.