How to Deposit a Check Online

With everyone living their life on the go and having less time to deal with everyday chores, online banking has boomed in popularity over the last few years. Many people accomplish all their banking tasks without ever setting foot inside of a branch.

The pandemic has changed the way people bank as well. According to a recent study, 75 percent of people either use their mobile device or laptop to conduct their banking business, an increase of 12 percent following the pandemic.

Community-focused credit unions and banks have recognized that people are searching for convenience while still receiving full service, and they have implemented several key features that complement their in-person banking. One of these features is online check deposits. Find out more about how to deposit a check online and get your most pressing questions answered.

Can you deposit a check online?

Yes, but first you must make sure you have an online account with your financial institution. Oklahoma Central Credit Union offers free online banking that allows you to track and manage your finances within a simple summary page. If you do not have an online account, go to https://www.occubanking.org/tob/live/usp-core/app/register and set up your personalized user ID and password.

Where can I deposit a check online?

You should be able to make your deposit on the Oklahoma Central mobile app. Download the app and use your online banking login to access your account.

How can I deposit a check online?

Once you have logged in to the mobile app, you're one step closer to making the deposit. From there, follow these steps:

• Endorse your check: Sign in the normal spot and write "for mobile deposit at OCCU only" below the signature.
• Take a picture: You will need to shoot a picture of the front and back of your check. Take the picture against a dark background for better clarity. The app will provide you with a border in which to place your check.
• Fill out additional info: Financial institutions, including Oklahoma Central, may require you to fill out the amount of the check being deposited and the account in which it is going.
• Verify your deposit: Make sure all information is correct before submitting. You'll then get a confirmation email from your financial institution. If using the OCCU app, you will see a “Success” screen.

How long does it take to deposit a check online?

Most banks or credit unions require at least one business day for the transaction to process. Some may place a portion of the deposit into your account for immediate use and then add the rest after that processing time. Check with your financial institution to see what its policies are. Do not immediately throw away or shred the paper check after an online banking deposit. Check your account the next day to ensure it has been processed correctly.

How to deposit a paycheck online

If you do not have direct deposit already set up with your employer, you can deposit your paycheck through online banking. However, some credit unions and banks place a limit on how much money you can deposit through the mobile app per month. Check to see what the limit is, as several large paychecks could exceed the amount mandated by your bank.

Can I deposit a cashier's check online?

Yes, cashier's checks are allowed to be deposited online. Generally, any check made in your name is acceptable. However, some banks do not allow third-party checks, checks from foreign banks or traveler's checks to be deposited through mobile banking. You'll have to head into a branch to get those items cleared.

What if I don't have a bank account?

According to statistics, more than 7 million American households don't have a bank account. This would seem to eliminate the ability to deposit a check online. In some cases, no bank account individuals are covered, but there may be fees involved. If you have a PayPal account, you can deposit a check through the app. If you need the money immediately, you will have to pay a small fee. If you can wait for up to 10 days, it will be placed in your PayPal account at no cost.