The three ways to move money into Discover
You can deposit money into a Discover savings account through electronic transfer from another bank account, by mailing a check, or by transferring money from another Discover account you already own. Discover does not have physical branches or ATMs, so you cannot walk in or use a cash deposit machine. The electronic transfer is the fastest and most common method — it usually takes one to two business days.
Each method has different timing and requirements. Electronic transfers work best if you have a checking account at another bank. Mailing a check takes longer but works if you have a physical check to send. Transferring between your own Discover accounts is when ready if you already hold multiple accounts with them.
Key Takeaways
- Electronic transfers from another bank account are the fastest way to deposit money, typically completing within one to two business days.
- You will need your Discover account number and routing number to set up an electronic transfer, both visible in your online account or on statements.
- Mailing a check takes seven to ten business days but requires only your account number written on the back of the check.
- Discover does not accept cash deposits or deposits at ATMs, since the bank has no physical locations.
- Once money arrives in your Discover savings account, it begins earning interest when ready at the rate Discover currently offers.
Electronic transfer from another bank account
This is the fastest deposit method. Log into your Discover account online or through the mobile app, then look for a section labeled "Transfer Money" or "Move Money." You will be asked to provide the name and routing number of the bank you are transferring from, plus your account number at that bank. Discover will then initiate the transfer on your behalf.
The first transfer from a new bank account may take longer — sometimes up to five business days — because Discover verifies the account belongs to you. After that, transfers typically complete in one to two business days. You can transfer as much as you want, but Discover may have limits on how many transfers you can make per month depending on your account type.
If you do not know your routing number, you can find it on a check from that bank, or call the bank directly. Your account number is also on your checks or visible when you log into that bank's website.
Mailing a physical check
You can mail a check directly to Discover. Write your Discover account number on the back of the check, then mail it to the address Discover provides in your account settings or on their website. The check should be made out to yourself or to Discover — either works.
Mailing takes time: expect seven to ten business days for the check to arrive, be processed, and appear in your account. This method is useful if you have a physical check but no way to deposit it elsewhere, or if you prefer not to link your other bank account to Discover. Keep a record of the check number and amount in case you need to track it.
Transferring between your own Discover accounts
If you hold more than one account with Discover — for example, a checking account and a savings account — you can move money between them when ready through your online account or app. This transfer happens the same day and costs nothing.
Log into your Discover account, select the account you want to transfer from, and choose the option to transfer to another Discover account. Select the destination account and enter the amount. The money will be available when ready in both accounts.
What you need before you start
For an electronic transfer, gather your Discover account number and routing number. Both appear in your Discover online account under account details or settings. Your account number is also on any statements Discover has sent you. The routing number is the same for all Discover customers — you can find it on Discover's website or by calling their customer service line.
For a mailed check, you need only your Discover account number. Write it clearly on the back of the check so Discover knows which account to credit. If you are transferring between Discover accounts, you need the account numbers of both accounts.
How long deposits take and when interest starts
Electronic transfers typically post within one to two business days, though the first transfer from a new bank account can take up to five days. Mailed checks take seven to ten business days from the time you mail them. Transfers between your own Discover accounts are when ready.
Interest on your deposit begins the day the money arrives in your Discover savings account, not the day you initiate the transfer. This means if you mail a check, interest does not start until Discover receives and processes it. The interest rate Discover offers changes over time, so check your account or Discover's website to see the current rate.
What to do if your deposit does not arrive
If an electronic transfer does not appear after the expected time, log into your Discover account and check the transfer status. Discover shows whether the transfer is pending, completed, or failed. If it failed, the money returns to your original bank account — this usually takes a few business days.
If a mailed check does not arrive after ten business days, contact Discover with the check number and amount. They can investigate whether the check was received and processed. Keep your cancelled check or bank statement showing the check was sent, in case you need proof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit cash into my Discover savings account?
No. Discover has no physical branches or ATMs, so you cannot deposit cash directly. You must first deposit the cash into another bank account, then transfer the money electronically to Discover. Many banks and credit unions accept cash deposits at their locations or ATMs.
Is there a limit to how much I can deposit?
Discover does not publicly state a maximum deposit amount, but very large deposits may trigger fraud review. If you are depositing a large sum, contact Discover beforehand to let them know. There may be limits on how many transfers you can make per month depending on your account type.
Do I need to link my other bank account permanently?
For electronic transfers, you provide your other bank's information each time, or you can save it for future transfers. You do not have to keep the account linked if you do not want to. You can also mail checks instead if you prefer not to link accounts electronically.
What if I make a mistake on the check I mailed?
If you wrote the wrong account number or amount, contact Discover as soon as possible with the check number. They may be able to correct it before processing. If the check has already been processed to the wrong account, Discover can help you request a transfer to the correct account.
Can I set up automatic deposits to my Discover savings account?
Yes, if your employer offers direct deposit. You can have your paycheck deposited directly into your Discover account by providing your employer with your Discover account number and routing number. This is the fastest and most reliable way to deposit regular income.