What Is Mobile Deposit and How Does It Work?

Jul 29, 2026 | 3 Minute Read

Mobile deposit allows you to deposit eligible paper checks into your bank account using your smartphone instead of visiting a branch. By taking clear photos of the front and back of a properly endorsed check through your mobile banking app, you can securely submit your deposit from almost anywhere.

At Yakima Federal, Mobile Deposit is available through the Yakima Federal Mobile Banking App for customers with eligible checking or savings accounts who have enrolled in Internet Banking and accepted the Mobile Deposit Terms and Conditions. 

How to Mobile Deposit a Check

1. Log In to the Mobile Banking App

Open the Yakima Federal Mobile Banking App and sign in using your Internet Banking credentials.

2. Open the Deposits Menu

From the home screen you select Menu in the upper-right corner. Then click Deposits. From there you can then either, select Deposit History to view previous mobile deposits, or select Deposit a Check to begin a new deposit.

3. Select the Deposit Account

On the Deposit a Check screen you will be prompted to choose the account where you want to deposit the funds using the Deposit to drop-down menu.

Then enter the total amount of the check in the Check Amount field. Double-check the amount before continuing.

Mobile deposit menu in the Yakima Federal Mobile Banking App

4. Photograph the Front of the Check

Select the camera icon to capture the front of your check. For the best image quality:

  • Position the entire check inside the on-screen guide.
  • Place the check on a clean, solid dark surface.
  • Make sure the room is well lit.
  • Clean your camera lens before taking the picture.
  • Wait until the app captures the image and displays a Success message.
  • Review the image before selecting Use.

A clear image helps prevent delays in processing.

 

5. Endorse and Photograph the Back of the Check

Before photographing the back of the check, sign (endorse) the check. Be sure to include “For Mobile Deposit Only to Yakima Federal” under your signature.

Then:

  • Position the back of the check within the on-screen guide.
  • Use good lighting and a clean dark background.
  • Wait for the Success message.
  • Review the image and select Use if it is clear.

An unsigned or poorly photographed check may be delayed or rejected during review.

6. Review and Submit Your Deposit

After both images have been captured, the app displays a confirmation screen showing the selected deposit account, check amount, and the images of the check.

Review all information carefully. If everything is correct, select Deposit to submit your mobile deposit.

 

How Long Does a Mobile Deposit Take?

Deposits are submitted in real time through the mobile banking app. After submission our team reviews each item. Our team will either accept or reject the check.

The reviewal process is done during Yakima Federal business hours, if the check is submitted outside of our normal business hours the funds will not be deposited until the check is reviewed. If reviewed and accepted the deposit typically appears in your account within 30 minutes. Processing times may vary depending on the circumstances of the deposit.

Yakima Federal mobile deposit feature in the Mobile Banking App

How to Check the Status of Your Mobile Deposit

You can monitor the status of your deposit at any time.

Within the app:

  1. Select Menu.
  2. Choose Deposits.
  3. Select Deposit History.

Why Was My Mobile Deposit Delayed or Rejected?

There are several reasons why a mobile deposit may require additional review or may not be accepted. Common reasons include:

  • The check was not properly endorsed.
  • The front or back image was blurry or incomplete.
  • The check was not fully visible within the camera guide.
  • Poor lighting made information difficult to read.
  • The camera lens was dirty, affecting image quality.
  • The entered check amount did not match the check.
  • The deposited item did not meet eligibility requirements.

Taking clear, well-lit photos and reviewing all information before submitting your deposit can help reduce delays.

Mobile Deposit Limits

Deposit limits vary by account. If you have any questions, please contact us at (800) 331-3225.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit a check online?

Yes. Mobile Deposit allows eligible customers to deposit checks electronically through the Yakima Federal Mobile Banking App using their smartphone.

Do I need to endorse my check?

Yes. You must sign the back of the check before submitting your mobile deposit. Failure to properly endorse the check may result in the deposit being delayed or rejected.

How do I know if my deposit was accepted?

You can view the status of your deposit by opening Deposit History within the Mobile Deposit menu. Your deposit will display as Pending, Approved, or Denied.

Who can use Mobile Deposit?

Customers with an eligible Yakima Federal account who have enrolled in Internet Banking, use the Yakima Federal Mobile Banking App, and have accepted the Mobile Deposit Terms and Conditions can access Mobile Deposit.

Is Mobile Deposit secure?

Mobile Deposit is completed through the Yakima Federal Mobile Banking App. Customers should always protect their login credentials, use secure networks whenever possible, and verify their deposit details before submitting a check.