7 Tips for a Successful Mobile Check Deposit

Mobile check deposits offer a convenient way to handle your banking, but sometimes deposits can be delayed or rejected due to common errors. To help you ensure timely and hassle-free deposits, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequent reasons why mobile check deposits are delayed or rejected and how to avoid these pitfalls to ensure a successful mobile check deposit every time, including properly endorsing your checks, double-checking details, and capturing clear images.

Common Reasons for Delays or Rejections

1. If the check image is not clear, well-lit, or the four corners cannot be seen.
2. If the check is made out to a different name or business.
3. If the back of the check is not endorsed or the signature does not match.
4. If the associated bank account does not have sufficient funds to complete the payment.
5. If the payer requested a ‘stop payment’ on the check.
6. If the check was previously deposited.
7. If the check is dated as older than 6 months.
8. If the check details cannot be verified by the bank.

Mobile Check Deposit Best Practices

1. Check Writing: When depositing a check, it is important to ensure that the name of the payee matches the name on your account. When accepting checks, provide clear instructions to customers for how a check should be written.
2. Check Quality: Before taking pictures of your checks, make sure they are flat and free from any wrinkles or folds. This helps improve image quality and reduces the chances of errors during processing.
3. Lighting Conditions: When capturing images of your checks using the app, it’s essential to have adequate lighting conditions. Find a well-lit area or use natural light whenever possible to ensure clear and legible images.
4. Background Surface: Any surface of a solid color that contrasts with the check is best. Use a dark- color surface for light checks; a light-color surface for dark checks.
5. Focus: Make sure that the bottom of the check is aligned with the base guideline on the
   camera display window. Use the edge detection brackets that appear around the four corners of the check to be sure the entire check is in alignment with proper zoom and scale before taking the picture.
6. Endorsement: Endorsing a check for mobile deposit is generally a simple process, but it also varies by bank. At Grasshopper, all checks must be properly endorsed with the account holder’s signature and the phrase “FOR MOBILE DEPOSIT ONLY GRASSHOPPER BANK.”
7. Review Submission: Take a moment to review the images of your checks before submitting them through the app. Double-check that all necessary fields are visible and the check is properly endorsed.

It is always a good practice to retain physical copies of deposited checks until they are successfully processed. Once confirmed, we encourage you to securely dispose of them following proper document disposal procedures. By following these best practices, you can minimize delays and ensure your funds are deposited quickly and securely. If you have any questions about mobile check deposit, you can contact Client Services.