Yes, you can deposit a MoneyGram check into most bank accounts

A MoneyGram check is a paper check issued by MoneyGram, usually when you pick up money that was sent to you through their service. You can deposit it into your bank account the same way you would deposit any other check — through mobile deposit, at an ATM, or by handing it to a teller in person. The process takes the same number of days as a regular check deposit, usually one to three business days for the money to show up in your account.

The main thing to know is that your bank must accept third-party checks, or the check must be made out directly to you. Most banks do accept MoneyGram checks without trouble, but some have restrictions on who can deposit them. Before you try, check with your bank about their check deposit rules.

Key Takeaways

  • MoneyGram checks can be deposited through mobile deposit, ATM, or in person at your bank branch.
  • The check must be made out to you, or your bank must allow third-party check deposits.
  • Processing time is usually one to three business days, the same as any other check.
  • If the check is damaged, unsigned, or made out to someone else, your bank may refuse it.
  • Some banks charge a fee for mobile or ATM deposits, though many do not.

How to deposit a MoneyGram check through mobile deposit

Mobile deposit is the fastest and easiest way if your bank offers it. Open your bank's app, look for the deposit or mobile check deposit option, and follow the prompts. You will need to take a photo of the front and back of the check. Make sure the check is well-lit, the text is clear, and all four corners are visible in the photo.

Before you photograph it, sign the back of the check in the space marked "Endorse here." Write your name and account number below your signature. Some banks ask you to write "For mobile deposit only" as well, though this is becoming less common. Once you submit the photos, the app will tell you how long processing will take — usually one to three business days.

After you deposit it, do not spend the money until it clears. Your bank will show the deposit in your account right away, but the money may not be available for a day or two. If you withdraw it before it clears and the check bounces, you will owe the bank the full amount.

Depositing a MoneyGram check at an ATM

Many banks have ATMs that accept check deposits. Look for an ATM at your bank's branch or at a partner location. Insert your debit card, choose the deposit option, and follow the on-screen instructions. The ATM will ask you to insert the check into a slot or place it on a scanner. Make sure the check is clean and not folded or torn.

ATM deposits work the same way as mobile deposits — the money shows up in your account right away but may not be available for one to three business days. Keep your receipt from the ATM in case there is a problem with the deposit.

Depositing a MoneyGram check in person at your bank

If you prefer to hand the check to a teller, go to your bank branch during business hours with your debit card or account number. Sign the back of the check and hand it to the teller along with your ID. The teller will process it on the spot and give you a receipt showing the deposit amount and when the money will be available.

In-person deposits are useful if the check is damaged or if you want to ask the teller about your bank's specific rules. Some banks process in-person deposits faster than mobile or ATM deposits, though this varies by bank.

What to check before you deposit

Before you deposit the check, make sure the amount is correct and the check is made out to you. Look at the "Pay to the order of" line — it should have your name on it. If it is made out to someone else, your bank will not accept it unless that person signs it over to you and your bank allows third-party deposits.

Check that the check is not damaged, torn, or faded. If the numbers or text are hard to read, the bank may reject it. Also make sure the check has not already been deposited — if you received it as a replacement for a lost check, the original may have cleared already.

Look at the date on the check. Most banks will not deposit a check that is more than six months old, though some will. If your MoneyGram check is old, call your bank before you try to deposit it.

What happens if your bank refuses the check

If your bank rejects the MoneyGram check, they will tell you why — usually because it is made out to someone else, it is damaged, or it is too old. If the check is damaged, you can contact MoneyGram and ask for a replacement. If it is made out to the wrong person, you will need to contact the person who sent it and ask them to request a new check in your name.

If your bank straightforward does not accept MoneyGram checks, you have a few options. You can try depositing it at a different bank or credit union, or you can cash it at a check-cashing service. Check-cashing services charge a fee, usually a percentage of the check amount, but they will cash it the same day.

Fees and timing to expect

Most banks do not charge a fee to deposit a check through mobile deposit or ATM. Some banks charge a small fee for ATM deposits if you use an ATM outside their network, but deposits at your own bank's ATM are usually free. In-person deposits at a teller are always free.

The timing depends on when you deposit and what day of the week it is. A check deposited on a weekday morning may clear by the next business day. A check deposited on Friday evening or over the weekend will not start processing until Monday. Holidays also add time — a check deposited before a holiday may not clear until the day after the holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit a MoneyGram check made out to someone else?

Only if that person signs it over to you on the back and your bank allows third-party check deposits. Some banks do not accept third-party checks at all. Call your bank first to ask if they will accept it before you ask the other person to sign it over.

How long does it take for a MoneyGram check to clear?

Usually one to three business days. The money shows up in your account right away, but it may not be available to withdraw until it clears. Do not spend the money until your bank tells you it is available.

What if the MoneyGram check is damaged or torn?

Contact MoneyGram and explain the problem. They can issue a replacement check. Do not try to tape the check back together or write on it — banks will reject damaged checks. Keep the original in case MoneyGram asks to see it.

Can I deposit a MoneyGram check if I do not have a debit card?

Yes. Go to your bank branch in person with your ID and account number. A teller can process the deposit for you without a debit card. You can also use mobile deposit if you have the bank's app set up on your phone.

What if my bank says the check is too old to deposit?

Checks are usually good for six months from the date written. If yours is older, contact MoneyGram and ask for a replacement. They may ask you to fill out a form explaining why you did not deposit it sooner.