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How to fill out a deposit slip

Use these 8 steps to write a bank deposit slip.

Use bank deposit slips to add cash or checks to your checking or savings accounts. Deposit slips only take a couple of minutes to fill out — but some banks let you deposit checks online if you’d rather skip the slip.

8 steps to fill out a deposit slip

If you’ve never filled out a deposit slip before, you might not know where to start. The specific process varies slightly depending on if you’re depositing cash, checks or both, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it.

  1. Add your account number if needed. If the deposit slip came with your checkbook, it may already have your account number printed on the bottom of it to the right of the nine-digit routing number. But if your account number isn’t on the slip, you can find it in your checkbook or by logging into your bank’s website or app. Or, ask a teller at your bank.
  2. Write the current date. Use the date of the deposit, not the date written on the check.
  3. Write the total amount of cash. If you’re depositing cash, enter the total dollar amount plus any change.
  4. Write the amount of each check. If you’re depositing multiple checks, write the amount of each one on a separate line on the slip. For example, if you’re depositing cash and two checks, you’ll need to fill out three separate lines.
  5. Calculate the subtotal. Add up the total amount of cash and checks you’re depositing and include it on the subtotal line.
  6. Write the amount of cash you want back. If you’re withdrawing any cash, write that number on the cash received line.
  7. Arrive at the total. Add up all of the cash and checks you’re depositing — minus any cash you’re withdrawing — and write the amount on the total or net line at the bottom of the slip.
  8. Signature. Finally, when everything else is filled out, sign the slip and submit it to the bank with your cash and/or checks.

Bank deposit slip example

Deposit slip

5 things you need before filling out a bank deposit slip

Before filling out a deposit slip, be prepared with the following items.

  1. Routing number. If you’re using a deposit slip directly from your bank or checkbook, it probably already has the nine-digit routing number printed on it. But if it doesn’t, you can ask a bank teller, look in your checkbook or log in to your bank account to locate it.
  2. Account number. Unlike a routing number, which pertains to all accounts held by your bank, your account number is specific to you. Find it on your checks to the right of your routing number or by logging in to your bank account.
  3. Cash and signed checks. Deposit both of these at the same time, but if your checks aren’t signed by both you and the issuer, your deposit won’t be accepted.
  4. A ballpoint pen. Most banks provide pens for you to use, but you might want to bring your own just in case.
  5. A calculator. If math isn’t your strong suit, a calculator can be an valuable tool when adding up your cash and checks.

What is a deposit slip?

A bank deposit slip is used to add funds to your bank account. Deposit cash and checks on the same deposit slip, and most banks will also let you request to receive cash if you’re depositing a check.

Deposit slips can be used at a bank branch or at some ATMs. If you’re depositing a check or cash at an ATM, check that the ATM accepts deposits and whether you’ll need an envelope to keep your deposit slip and money together.

Is there a difference between filing a personal and business deposit slip?

Business deposit slips are essentially the same as personal deposit slips, but business deposit slips typically have more lines to allow for a greater number of checks. Business deposit slips also tend to have routing and account numbers preprinted on them.

Also, businesses may be able to deposit checks using a check scanner depending on the bank. Cash, of course, still needs to be deposited in person or through a deposit box.

Can I deposit cash without a deposit slip?

Yes. Many banks allow you to deposit cash via ATMs without requiring a deposit slip. This is a common practice for traditional brick-and-mortar banks, though some online-only banks accept deposits via ATMs.

10 banks that accept cash deposits via ATMs

The following banks and credit unions support cash deposits via ATMs without requiring deposit slips. However, some of these banks only accept cash deposits at their own in-network ATMs, while others accept cash deposits at any ATM that can process deposits. Note that it may take longer for out-of-network deposits to reach your account.

InstitutionIn-network ATM deposits onlyIn- and out-of-network ATM deposits
Bank of America✓—
Capital One—✓
Chase✓—
Citi✓—
Navy Federal Credit Union—✓
PNC—✓
Radius Bank✓—
TD Bank—✓
US Bank✓—
Wells Fargo✓—

Can I deposit checks without a deposit slip?

Yes. Since the advent of smartphones, it’s become a common practice for banks to accept check deposits by using a bank’s mobile app and your smartphone’s camera.

10 banks that accept mobile check deposits

These banks and credit unions support mobile check deposits.

  1. Alliant Credit Union
  2. Axos Bank
  3. Bank of America
  4. Capital One
  5. Chase
  6. Discover Bank
  7. PNC
  8. Radius Bank
  9. US Bank
  10. Wells Fargo

Compare bank accounts that accept cash and check deposits

Use this table to compare bank accounts that accept both cash and check deposit.

Name Product Fee Minimum deposit to open Annual Percentage Yield (APY) Offer
Axos Bank Rewards Checking
Finder Rating: 4.2 / 5: ★★★★★
Bonus
Axos Bank Rewards Checking
$0 per month
$50
3.30% on balances of $0 to $50,000
Use promo code SUNNYBONUS and apply by December 31st, to earn up to $300 bonus, $50 each month you meet requirements: Make direct deposits of $5,000+ each month for the first 7 months and maintain an average balance of $7,000.
Earn up to 3.3% APY after meeting deposit and spending requirements. Get ATM free reimbursements at all domestic ATMs. Pay $0 monthly or overdraft fees. FDIC insured.
Axos Bank Essential Checking
Finder Rating: 5 / 5: ★★★★★
Axos Bank Essential Checking
$0 per month
$0
N/A
Pay $0 monthly and overdraft fees, and get reimbursed for domestic ATM fees. No opening deposit or minimum balance requirement. Get your paycheck up to 2 days early with direct deposit. FDIC insured.
Axos Bank First Checking
Finder Rating: 3.5 / 5: ★★★★★
Axos Bank First Checking
$0 per month
$50
0.10%
Made for teens ages 13 to 17, this account earns 0.1% APY and has no monthly fees. FDIC insured.
Axos Bank Golden Checking
Finder Rating: 5 / 5: ★★★★★
Axos Bank Golden Checking
$0 per month
$250
0.10% on balances of $0+
An interest-bearing checking account designed for customers aged 55 and older. FDIC insured.
Axos Bank Business Interest Checking
Finder Rating: 3.5 / 5: ★★★★★
Bonus
Axos Bank Business Interest Checking
$10 per month
(can be waived)
$100
1.01% on balances of $0 to $49,999.99
0.20% on balances of $50,000 to $249,999.99
0.10% on balances of $250,000 to $4,999,999.99
Open a business checking account by Dec. 31 and get up to $400 when you use promo code NEW400 on your application and maintain a minimum average daily balance of $50,000.
Earn up to 1.01% APY and pay no monthly maintenance fee with an average daily balance of at least $5,000. FDIC insured.
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How long will it take for my money to deposit into my account?

When you deposit cash into your account, the funds are generally available instantly or within one business day. This is true for cash deposits at brick-and-mortar banks and cash deposits at ATMs that don’t require envelopes.

Check deposits usually take two business days to clear. In some cases, it could take up to five business days for the funds to be available.

Depending on your bank and the amount of the check you deposit, some institutions will only make $200 available to you within two business days, and the remainder of the check will be available one to three days later.

Bottom line

Depositing cash or checks into your bank should be simple, but the deposit slips and electronic options can vary from bank to bank. If you make regular deposits, talk with your financial institution about the best way to handle your finances. And if you’re looking for a new bank, compare banks to find one that’s the right fit.

Frequently asked questions

How do I deposit a check electronically?

First, ask your bank if it offers electronic deposits. If it does, a representative can take you through the steps.

Do I need an account number to deposit checks?

While most deposit slips will ask for an account number, some banks will allow you to leave the field blank and use a debit card to deposit checks and cash.

Where do I get deposit slips?

They should be available at any one of your bank’s branches. If you don’t live close to a branch, some banks will mail some to you.

Image source: Getty Images

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