The question can be answered by describing a simple process that involves cashing a check using an application adapted from digital technology through capturing. Through this technology, a camera device like a phone can capture the check and then upload the imagery. Many financial institutions guide how to cash a check online. Regardless, the process is typically similar. The fundamental process involves the use of capturing the check. Computers and mobile phones can be used to upload a check’s image and cash it digitally. In this paper, the guidelines will focus on using a mobile phone due to its popularity among users of banking services.
Steps of Cashing a Check Online
- Step 1: Ensure the Mobile Device has the Application for the Relevant Banking Institution.
The application for use can be accessed from PlayStore for Android phones. In contrast, iPhones can use AppStore to access the application necessary to utilize the banking service of cashing a check.
- Step 2: Downloading the Application or Software That the Banking Institution Uses for Uploading Photos
Users with the application can skip this step and go to Step 3. Users without the application can download it from the relevant platforms consistent with their mobile operating system. The device should be able to download the software or application that the banking institution uses for processing its customers’ checks. Essentially, the customer has to ensure their device is compatible with the application or software that the bank uses for these operations. Also, the user needs to ensure that the photo taken is acceptable by the software for uploading. Otherwise, the process will not be successful. Updating the phone can solve the issue when the application is not downloading. However, if the problem persists, the customer can contact the customer care desk to get assistance downloading and making the application operational on their phone.
- Step 3: Go to the Deposit Section for Inputting the Amount of the Check
The mobile application has various sections that offer various options for users to navigate and access the utility function they want or need. In this case, a user can go to the transaction section of the application for many banking institutions and the deposit section. Under this section, the user will be required to input the exact amount as it appears on the check. Typically, the banking institution has a team that assesses whether the amount put by their customers’ accounts matches the image of the check. Additionally, the customer needs to ensure the check is added to the account and addressed, especially when the customer has more than one account with a banking institution. Hence, it is necessary to countercheck that typing the details in the empty spaces are done correctly.
- Step 4: Ensuring the Available Device Can Take a Clear Photo
The available device to capture a check should be clear for visibility. The bank can quickly process a check when the details are visible to confirm they are consistent with the holder’s bank account particulars. To avoid any inconveniences of the check being rejected, it is therefore essential for users to ensure they take clear photos.
- Step 5: Capture the Check
After all the details are put in empty spaces and the phone can take a good photo of the check, the capturing process follows. The best practice of taking a photo of a check is placing it in the middle of the camera capturing area. The placement ensures that the edges and any information are not left out intentionally or unintentionally. Moreover, cutting the edge of a check may make it difficult for the banking institution to confirm if the check is consistent with their checkbooks.
- Step 6: Preview the Images Before Sending
It is essential to countercheck that the front side, and for the banking institutions that require the back side to be captured, are taken correctly and contain no errors in writing.
- Step 7: Confirm the Check Details and Upload for Processing
After the preview is done and the customer has confirmed that it is correct in all forms, the final process is submitting and confirming the amount. The customer should confirm that the pictures represent the actual legal check from the banking institution.
Conclusion
There may be differences in how various banking institutions require details or forms to be put in a manner that reflects their company policy regarding online cashing checks. Thus, customers need to ensure they are familiar with such requirements. In case of doubt, the customers should not hesitate to call for assistance from the customer support desk and request clarity regarding the appropriate guidance for implementing this process. Customers should be aware of the security threats associated with online transactions. Thus, they should carry out the process using their device and avoid using public utilities like computers as much as possible as this increases the threat of their account details being accessed by nefarious actors.
