The main ways to deposit money into Discover checking
Discover Bank offers three ways to deposit money into your checking account: ACH transfers from another bank account you own, wire transfers from another bank, and mobile check deposit using the Discover mobile app. You cannot deposit cash directly at a Discover branch because Discover operates online only — there are no physical bank locations.
Each method works differently and takes a different amount of time. ACH transfers are free and usually arrive within one to two business days. Wire transfers arrive faster but cost money. Mobile check deposit is free and fast if you have a paper check.
Which method you use depends on what you have available and how quickly you need the money. If you have another bank account and are not in a rush, ACH is the cheapest option. If you have a check, mobile deposit is usually fastest. If you need money the same day and have no other option, wire transfer works but you will pay a fee.
Key Takeaways
- ACH transfers from another bank account are free and take one to two business days, making them the cheapest deposit method.
- Mobile check deposit through the Discover app is free and usually clears within one business day if you deposit before the cutoff time.
- Wire transfers arrive the same day or next business day but cost money — check Discover's current wire transfer fee before you send one.
- You cannot deposit cash at a Discover location because Discover has no physical branches; you must use one of these three electronic methods instead.
Setting up an ACH transfer from another bank
An ACH transfer is an electronic movement of money from one bank account to another. To set this up, you need your Discover checking account number and routing number. You can find both in the Discover mobile app or by logging into your online account.
You have two choices: initiate the transfer from your Discover account, or initiate it from your other bank. Most people find it easier to start from the bank where the money currently sits. Log into that bank's website or app, look for "transfer funds" or "send money," and select the option to transfer to an external account. You will enter your Discover account number and routing number, the amount, and when you want it to arrive.
The first ACH transfer from a new external bank account sometimes requires verification. Your other bank may send two small deposits (usually under $1 each) to your Discover account within a few days. You then log into Discover and confirm the amounts to prove you own both accounts. After that, future transfers are faster.
ACH transfers are free at Discover. They typically take one to two business days, though some banks process them faster. If you initiate a transfer on a weekend or holiday, it will not start moving until the next business day.
Depositing a check using your phone
Mobile check deposit means taking a photo of a check with your phone and sending it to Discover through the app. This is free and usually the fastest way to deposit a paper check.
Open the Discover mobile app, find the deposit option (usually labeled "Mobile Check Deposit" or under a menu for deposits), and take clear photos of both the front and back of the check. The app will guide you through this. Make sure the check is signed on the back and that your photos show all the numbers clearly.
After you submit the photos, Discover will tell you when the funds will be available — usually the next business day if you deposit before the cutoff time (often 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. Eastern time). Once the deposit is confirmed, you should destroy the physical check or write "deposited" on it so you do not accidentally try to deposit it again.
Mobile check deposit works for most personal checks. Some checks — like those from government agencies or very large amounts — may require additional steps or may not be available for mobile deposit. The app will let you know if a check cannot be deposited this way.
Wire transfers for faster deposits
A wire transfer is a direct electronic movement of money from another bank to Discover, and it usually arrives the same day or next business day. Wire transfers cost money, but they are faster than ACH transfers.
To send a wire to your Discover account, you contact the bank where the money currently sits and ask them to wire funds to Discover. You will need to provide Discover's wire routing number (which is different from the ACH routing number), your Discover account number, and your name. Discover's website has a page with the exact wire instructions to give to your other bank.
Your other bank will charge you a wire transfer fee — this typically ranges from $15 to $30, though it varies by bank. Ask your bank what they charge before you send the wire. Discover does not charge a fee to receive a wire, but you are paying the sending bank's fee.
Wire transfers are useful when you need money quickly and cannot wait for an ACH transfer. They are also useful if you are transferring a large amount and want to confirm it arrives the same day. For routine deposits, ACH or mobile check deposit are cheaper options.
What to do if you have cash
Discover does not have a way to deposit cash directly because it operates entirely online. If you have cash, you need to convert it to a check or electronic transfer first.
The simplest option is to go to another bank where you have an account — even a savings account at a different bank — and deposit the cash there. Then use an ACH transfer to move the money from that account to Discover. This takes a few days but costs nothing.
If you do not have another bank account, you can visit a check-cashing service and ask them to write you a check for the cash amount. Then deposit that check to Discover using mobile check deposit. Check-cashing services charge a fee for this, usually a small percentage of the amount.
Some people also use payment apps like PayPal or Square Cash to convert cash to a digital payment, then transfer from that app to their bank account. The fees and timing vary by app, so check what each one charges before you choose.
Timing and when deposits show up
When your deposit shows up in your account depends on the method and the time of day you send it. Availability means when you can use the money; posting means when it officially appears in your account history.
Mobile check deposits usually post within one business day if you deposit before the cutoff time. ACH transfers typically post within one to two business days. Wire transfers usually post the same day or next business day. "Business day" means Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays.
If you deposit on a Friday evening, the deposit will not start processing until Monday morning. If you deposit on a holiday, it will not start until the next business day. Discover's website shows the current cutoff times for each deposit method.
Once a deposit posts, the money is yours and you can use it. Some deposits show as "pending" for a day or two before they fully post — this is normal and does not mean the money is not there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit cash at a Discover ATM?
No. Discover ATMs only allow you to withdraw cash, not deposit it. Because Discover is an online-only bank with no physical branches, it does not have cash deposit machines. You must use one of the three electronic methods: ACH transfer, mobile check deposit, or wire transfer.
How do I find my Discover routing number and account number?
Log into your Discover account online or open the Discover mobile app. Your account number and routing number are usually visible on the main account page or under a "Account Details" or "Transfer Funds" section. You can also call Discover customer service and they will provide both numbers.
What happens if I deposit the same check twice by accident?
Discover's system is designed to catch duplicate deposits, but if one slips through, you will be responsible for returning the extra money. This is why you should write "deposited" on the physical check after you submit it through mobile deposit, or destroy it. If you do accidentally deposit twice, contact Discover right away and they can reverse one of the deposits.
Can I deposit a check that is made out to someone else?
No. The check must be made out to you or to you and another person. If a check is made out to someone else, you cannot deposit it into your account, even if they sign it over to you. The person whose name is on the check must deposit it themselves or add you as an authorized user on their account.
Is there a limit to how much I can deposit?
Discover may have daily or monthly limits on mobile check deposits, and these limits can change. Check the Discover app or website for current limits. ACH transfers and wire transfers typically have higher limits or no stated limit. If you are depositing a very large amount, contact Discover first to make sure there are no restrictions.