While most employers these days use direct deposit to pay their employees, there are still plenty of times when you may need to deposit cash or a check to your account. Sometimes, this process may require you to fill out a deposit slip – but what if you’ve never done that before? Is it difficult?
Luckily, filling out a deposit slip is simple but requires attention to detail to avoid potential hiccups. In this guide, we’ll break down how to fill out a deposit slip in clear, manageable steps.
Streamline your deposits: A step-by-step guide
Understanding how to correctly fill out a deposit slip can help you streamline your deposits and access your money faster. Luckily, the process is straightforward – and once you’ve mastered it, you’ll be making deposits like a pro.
1. Provide personal information
Start by writing your full name and account number at the top of the deposit slip. This information helps the bank direct your funds to the correct account. Skipping this step will result in your deposit not going through.
2. Include the date
Mark the date of the deposit to keep a record of when the transaction occurred.
3. Sign the check and slip
If you’re depositing a check, sign and date the back where directed. You may also need to sign the deposit slip depending on your bank’s requirements.
4. Specify the cash amount
Write down the total amount on the deposit slip if you’re depositing cash. It’s crucial to count your money beforehand to ensure accuracy.
5. List checks individually
If you’re depositing more than one check at the same time, write each check’s number and amount in the designated sections on the deposit slip. This step helps you and your financial institution track each check being deposited.
6. Request cashback if needed
When you deposit a check, you can request to receive some of your deposited money back in cash. Use the “less cash received” section on the deposit slip if you need cash back. This amount will be subtracted from the total deposited funds, and you’ll receive the difference in cash.
7. Calculate the subtotal for deposits
Add up the total amount of cash and checks you’re depositing. If you’re requesting cash back, subtract that amount to arrive at the total deposit amount. Write the deposit subtotal on the slip.
When is a deposit slip necessary?
Some financial institutions require you to use a deposit slip when you deposit money in person at a physical branch or through an ATM. The slip is proof of the transaction for you and the bank, detailing the specific amounts added to your account. This documentation is crucial for the following reasons:
- Tracking deposits: Deposit slips allow you to keep a personal record of your banking transactions. If you make numerous deposits, these slips can help ensure your transactions go through properly.
- Dispute resolutions: Deposit slips can serve as evidence if there are any discrepancies with the deposit, such as the bank reporting a smaller deposit than you made.
If your bank has no physical branches, you may still be able to deposit cash. For example, you can deposit cash into your Chime account by visiting over 75,000 retailers and handing your cash and debit card to the cashier – no deposit slip needed.
Do I need a deposit slip for mobile check deposits?
Deposit slips aren’t necessary when you use mobile check deposit. Instead, you’ll add an image of the check’s front and back and enter the deposit amount and the account to which it’s being deposited. You’ll also need to endorse a check for mobile deposit.
Most modern financial institutions have some form of mobile check deposit in their apps, so you can deposit checks from the comfort of your home without needing to visit a branch or ATM. Read the Chime’s mobile check deposit guide to learn how to do this through Chime.
When can I access my funds?
The amount of time it takes until you can access money from a deposit varies. Although cash deposits are usually available immediately, checks might take a few business days to clear. Other factors affecting fund availability include:
- The amount deposited: A check for a large sum may take longer to clear than a smaller check.
- The source of the check: If the check you’re depositing is from the same bank you’re depositing it to, it may clear faster.
- Your account standing: Established accounts may have quicker access to deposited funds.
- Your financial institution’s policies: Some banks make deposits available immediately, while others may take a few business days to clear.
Banks must provide a disclosure outlining their specific hold policies so you know when to expect access to your deposit. You can contact your bank directly for more information on its specific policy or to request a deposit slip example.
Filling in a deposit slip is simple
Knowing how to fill out a deposit slip is helpful, even if many online banks no longer require it. Following the steps outlined in this guide ensures your deposits will be processed smoothly and efficiently. You can also familiarize yourself with setting up direct deposits so you can access your paycheck immediately without needing to deposit a check and waiting for it to clear.
Learn more about how to set up direct deposit with Chime.
FAQs
How do I fill out a deposit slip?
In order to fill out a deposit slip, follow the steps outlined above. Make sure you provide accurate personal information, the date, details of cash and checks, and your signature if necessary.
Where is the routing number on a deposit slip?
The routing number on the bottom left of a check may not be required on a deposit slip since the account number provided directs where the funds should go. However, your bank’s routing number is often pre-printed on personalized deposit slips.
Can I make my own deposit slip?
Most banks require you to use the deposit slips they provide for in-person transactions, but you can fill out the information necessary beforehand. That way, you can understand what is written on the back of a deposit slip and be prepared to fill it out when you need to deposit a check.