You can deposit U.S. checks directly into your Relay account using the Relay mobile app. This guide walks you through the process and includes important tips to ensure a successful deposit.
đ Download the Relay app and get started
How to deposit a check on the Relay app
- Open the Relay mobile app on your device.
- Tap Deposit Check on the left-hand side.
- Select the account you'd like to deposit the check into.
- Enter the exact amount printed on the check. Amount mismatches may cause delays or rejections.
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Endorse the back of the check with your signature or business name. Underneath, write:
"For mobile deposit only at Thread Bank".* - Take clear photos of the front and back of the check on a flat, dark surface. Make sure all corners are visible.
- Enter the Payerâs name (the person or business that wrote the check).
- Add a short note or memo if you'd like.
- Tap Deposit to submit.
*NOTE: Thread Bank is Relay's banking partner. More information can be found here.
Check Deposit Guidelines
- Lay the check flat and hold your phone steady when taking photos.
- Avoid using flashânatural or diffused light works best.
- Use a plain, dark background (no patterns or textures).
- Make sure there are no shadows or glare on the check.
- All four corners of the check must be visible in each image.
Note: You must photograph the physical check in your possession. Digital images, screenshots, or photos of a printed check image will not be accepted.
Settlement Timeline
Checks typically settle within up to 7 business days from the processing date. The cutoff time for daily check processing is 3:00 PM EST. Deposits made after that time will begin processing on the next business day.
Deposit Requirements
- Only U.S. checks are accepted. Foreign-issued or substitute checks will be returned.
- Checks older than 6 months will not be accepted. Please request a reissued check from the payer if needed.
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Checks must be made payable to:
- Your business name (as listed on your Relay account)
- The name of a Beneficial Owner on file
- Your DBA (Doing Business As) name, if itâs been added to your account
â ď¸ Please note: Checks made out to a different nameâeven with Power of Attorney (POA)âcannot be accepted and will be rejected by our banking partner.
If you need to add a DBA to your account, visit our guide: How to add a DBA to your Relay account
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you deposit a money order?
Yes, but make sure the money order doesnât say âcannot be electronically deposited.â
What do I need to write on the back of the check (endorsement)?
Sign the back of the check (signature or business name), then write: âFor mobile deposit only at Thread Bank.â
How long does a mobile check deposit take to settle?
Checks typically settle within up to 7 business days from the processing date.
Whatâs the cutoff time for check deposit processing?
The daily cutoff time is 5:00 PM ET. Deposits submitted after that start processing the next business day.
What kinds of checks are accepted?
Relay only accepts U.S. checks. Foreign-issued or substitute checks will be returned.
Is there an age limit on checks?
Yes. Checks older than 6 months wonât be acceptedârequest a reissued check from the payer.
What name does the check need to be made payable to?
Checks must be payable to your business name (as listed on your Relay account), a Beneficial Owner on file, or your DBA (if itâs been added to your account).
Can I deposit a check made out to someone else (or with POA)?
No. Checks made out to a different nameâeven with Power of Attorney (POA)âcanât be accepted and will be rejected by Relayâs banking partner.
Can I deposit a screenshot, scanned copy, or printed image of a check?
No. You must photograph the physical check in your possession. Screenshots, âpicture of a picture,â or other digital versions arenât accepted.
What photo tips help avoid rejections?
Use a plain, dark background, avoid flash, ensure good lighting (no shadows/glare), keep the check flat, and make sure all four corners are visible.
Why was my check deposit rejectedâand where do I find the reason?
Open the rejected transaction in Relay to see the reason in the transaction details, and youâll also receive an email with rejection details.
Can Relay override a rejected check deposit?
No. Relay canât override rejections because checks must validate through the banking partnerâs check-scanning software. You may be able to re-deposit the check in the app.Â
What if the app says the deposit exceeds my daily/monthly limit?
Youâll need to request a transaction limit increase. Reviews typically take 1â3 business days, and youâll be emailed if more documentation is needed and when a decision is made.
Why might Relay ask for additional information after I deposit a check?
Relay may request verification info like the issuerâs contact number, a signed invoice/contract, or issuer communication (e.g., email/text screenshots showing services rendered). This isnât intended to be recurringârequests generally taper off once your patterns are established.