Convenient, Secure, Simple: The Benefits of Using Mobile Deposit

As the weather heats up, so does our desire to get outdoors and spend time with family and friends. Graduation parties, weddings, and other big celebrations are on the rise, along with the exchange of gifts. From physical products to congratulatory checks, recipients will have their hands full this summer. While you're unlikely to misplace a physical gift, it's not always as easy to keep track of numerous paper checks.

Mobile Deposit offers a simple solution to tracking and depositing paper checks without making countless trips to the credit union. All you need is a smartphone to get started.

What Is Mobile Deposit?

A mobile deposit is when you use a financial institution's mobile app to deposit a physical check into your checking or savings account. The transaction can be performed at any time of day, and from almost any location, using the camera on a smartphone or tablet.

 How Does Mobile Deposit Work?

Mobile deposits require several steps but only take a few minutes to complete.

·Start by downloading your financial institution's mobile banking app to your smartphone. If you are a member of Together Credit Union, visit our website to download the MobileAccess+ app.

·Open the app and log in using your username and password. After your first log-in, you may be able to enable facial recognition or a fingerprint for future log-in access through the ‘Settings’ options. (Please refer to your app’s capabilities for this feature).

·Select the ‘Mobile Check Deposit’ option in the app.

·Select the account where you would like the funds deposited. Enter the amount of the check. Some financial institutions may also require that you enter the check number.

·Sign the back of the check. Under your signature, add the words "For Mobile Deposit Only" or another statement required by your institution.

·When prompted, take a picture of the front and back of the check. Pro-tip: Make sure you have good lighting and that your check is laying on a flat surface, with

·Review your deposit information, then select Deposit.

You'll either receive a confirmation screen or a notification that you need to correct something before the check is accepted. Even if the app confirms the deposit, some mobile deposit agreements require that you hold onto your check for 15 days. This is for your protection, in case there are any questions about the transaction. After that time, consider shredding the check to keep it out of the hands of identity thieves.

 How Quickly Are Mobile Deposit Funds Released?

Funds should be available in 1 – 3 business days. There's no need to check each day while the deposit is pending approval. You'll receive an email confirmation when the money is available in your account.

Are There Other Benefits to Using Mobile Deposit?

Yes, here are a few more to consider.

Convenience. You can deposit funds anytime and from anywhere if you have your smartphone or tablet and a secure internet connection. There's no need to rush to the branch before it closes to deposit checks. Avoid long lines and deposit money orders, paychecks, and benefit checks 24/7.

Security. The photograph of your check isn't stored on your phone. Images are uploaded directly to your financial institution's secure mobile banking network. It's as secure as paying bills online using your institution's online banking system or depositing checks in person.

Confidence. When you deposit your check through a mobile app, you hold onto your original check until it's no longer needed. If you make a mistake while completing a mobile deposit, you still have the original check and can use it to quickly resolve any errors by visiting the nearest branch location.

Ready to learn more about how Mobile Deposit works? Watch this 3-minute video or schedule a phone call with our member contact center, and we’ll walk you through the process.