How can I Make Mobile Check Deposits?

Question: I hate going to the bank when I get a check. I keep hearing about mobile check deposits and I want to try it out. What do I need to do?

Answer: You can save a lot of time and hassle if you make mobile check deposits. The process itself is easy, but you may not yet have the ability to make deposits. Your bank has to offer the service, and you need to have the right phone.

First, find out if your bank allows mobile check deposits. Call their customer service line or visit the website. If your bank does not offer this service, you can always find one that does. Don’t forget to look at small banks and credit unions as you shop around. The following list may be helpful:

• Remote Deposit Providers

Next, get an application for your mobile phone. The iPhone App Store or the Android Market should have everything you need. However, be sure to get a legitimate application. If you use anything else, you’ll hand your bank account information over to a thief. To be safe, get details on approved applications directly from your bank first.

Finally, you’re ready to make mobile check deposits. The application on your phone should walk you through the process and make it painfully easy. In short, you’ll need to:

• Endorse the check
• Take a photo of the front
• Take a photo of the back
• Verify that the image is clear
• Verify details from the check (amount, account numbers, etc)
• Submit your request
• Wait for confirmation from your bank

After you submit your request, be sure not to deposit the check again. A check is only good for one payment. Your bank should provide instructions on how to handle the check after you send photos. You may need to destroy the check, or at least write "VOID" on the front so you don’t re-submit.