Even in an increasingly digital world, checks can still be part of everyday finances for many people. Some people may receive checks frequently, such as their paycheck, while others receive them only occasionally. The deposit of paper checks is handled differently than direct deposits, which are electronically deposited into your account. Here are answers to some common questions about check deposits.

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Direct deposit is a secure and convenient way to access recurring income on the day of deposit. It’s available for many income sources including your paycheck, Social Security and retirement plans.

How do I know when my money will be available?

Your deposit receipt generally provides the detail of when the funds will be available to you, including funds that are immediately available, available the next business day, and funds subject to a deposit hold. You can also use our convenient online and mobile tools to track your deposits and determine your available balance at any time.

Wells Fargo will let you know as quickly as possible whether there will be a hold on a deposited check. If possible, the teller will notify you immediately at the time of deposit and your receipt will show how much of the deposit is being held and when the funds will be available to you. If the deposit is made through a Wells Fargo ATM or with the Wells Fargo Mobile Deposit Service, you will be informed during the deposit process if a hold will be placed or further review of the deposit is required. The ATM receipt or mobile deposit alert will display the amount held and when the funds will be available to you. If a hold is based upon information we learn after the deposit, Wells Fargo will notify you by mail, by email, or through the “Messages & Alerts” feature of Wells Fargo Online®.

Wells Fargo provides its funds availability schedule to all customers when they open an account. Also, you can request a copy of the schedule at any time in our banking locations.

Why would Wells Fargo place a hold on my deposit?

Occasionally, we may place a hold on a deposited check. Our decision to place a hold is frequently based on external information, for example if the paying bank notifies us that your deposited check might be returned unpaid or if you are re-depositing a check that was previously returned unpaid. A hold can also be based on information about your account, such as if an account was recently opened or has experienced frequent overdrafts and returned items.

We understand that holds are an inconvenience, but they help us protect you from uncertainty and fraud. If a hold is not placed and a check is not paid, you may have already withdrawn all the money only to find that you are responsible for repaying the full amount of the returned check.

Wells Fargo is committed to providing information that will help you use your accounts and services effectively. If you have any questions, feel free to visit a Personal Banker in any of our banking locations during normal business hours. Visit Wells Fargo Online at wellsfargo.com, or call us anytime at 1-800-TO-WELLS (1-800-869-3557).

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