If you’re depositing money at a bank or credit union branch, you may be asked to complete a deposit slip. While it might look confusing at first, it’s actually very simple once you understand what each section means.
A deposit slip tells the bank who you are, which account should receive the money, and exactly how much you’re depositing. It also creates a written record of the transaction for both you and the bank.
Let’s walk through how it works in plain English.
Why Deposit Slips Matter
Think of a deposit slip as instructions for your bank. Without it, the teller wouldn’t know:
-
Which account to credit
-
How much cash you’re depositing
-
How many checks are included
-
Whether you want cash back
Filling it out correctly helps prevent errors and makes sure your money ends up in the right place.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out a Deposit Slip
Here’s how to complete one the right way.
1. Write Your Personal Information
At the top of the slip, you’ll typically fill in:
-
Your full name
-
Your account number
-
The date
If you’re using pre-printed deposit slips from your checkbook, your name and account number may already be printed.
Tip: Always double-check your account number. One wrong digit could delay your deposit.
2. Enter the Cash Amount
If you’re depositing paper bills or coins, write the total amount in the section labeled “Cash.”
For example:
-
3 $20 bills = $60
-
2 $10 bills = $20
Total cash = $80
If you’re not depositing any cash, leave this line blank.
3. List Each Check Separately
If you’re depositing checks, don’t just write one total. List each check on its own line.
For each check, include:
-
The check number (usually in the top right corner)
-
The dollar amount
For example:
| Check # | Amount |
|---|---|
| 1052 | $250 |
| 2087 | $120 |
This helps the bank track each individual item in case there’s ever a problem.
If you have many checks, most deposit slips have extra space on the back.
4. Add Everything Together (Subtotal)
Add up:
-
Total cash
-
Total checks
Write this combined amount as your subtotal.
Example:
-
Cash: $80
-
Checks: $370
Subtotal: $450
5. Enter Cash Back (If You Want It)
If you want to take some cash out immediately from your deposit, write that amount in the “Less Cash Received” section.
Example:
-
Subtotal: $450
-
Cash back: $50
-
Final deposit: $400
If you don’t want any money back, skip this step.
6. Calculate the Final Deposit Total
Subtract any cash you’re taking back from the subtotal.
This final number is what will actually go into your account.
7. Sign the Slip (If Required)
You typically only need to sign the deposit slip if you’re getting cash back.
If you’re just depositing money and not receiving anything, a signature usually isn’t required.
What About ATMs and Mobile Deposits?
Good news: you often don’t need a deposit slip at all.
ATM Deposits
Modern ATMs can scan your debit card, read your checks, and count your cash automatically. In many cases, you just insert your card and follow the on-screen instructions.
Some older machines may still require you to place your deposit in an envelope.
Mobile Check Deposits
When using your bank’s mobile app:
-
You log into your account
-
Take photos of the front and back of the check
-
Confirm the amount
No deposit slip needed.
However, most banks limit how much you can deposit via mobile per day, so check your bank’s policy.
When Will Your Money Be Available?
Just because you deposit a check doesn’t mean you can spend it immediately.
Banks follow something called a “funds availability policy.” Here’s what that means:
-
A portion of your deposit may be available the next business day.
-
Larger amounts may take several days to fully clear.
-
Certain items like cashier’s checks or money orders may clear faster.
If you need the money urgently, ask the teller when it will be available. Never assume all of it is ready to spend right away.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
-
Forgetting to list checks individually
-
Writing the wrong account number
-
Forgetting to subtract cash back
-
Assuming check deposits are instantly available
Taking an extra 30 seconds to review your slip can save you a headache later.
Where to Get a Deposit Slip
You can usually find deposit slips:
-
At the back of your checkbook
-
At the counter inside your bank branch
-
At the teller window (just ask)
