Mobile Cheque Deposit
Many Canadian banks and credit unions allow you to deposit cheques by photographing them with a mobile app. It can save a branch visit, but you still need to follow the provider’s eligibility, image, retention and security instructions.
How to Deposit a Cheque with Your Phone
- Sign in to your bank's mobile app.
- Select "Deposit" or "Cheque Deposit."
- Enter the cheque amount.
- Photograph the front and back of the cheque following on‑screen prompts.
- Submit once and check the confirmation. Follow the provider’s paper-cheque retention instructions; do not deposit the same cheque again.
Banks Supporting Mobile Deposit
| Institution | Mobile Deposit Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RBC | Yes | Available on iOS and Android apps. |
| TD | Yes | Quick Deposit feature supports multiple cheques. |
| Scotiabank | Yes | Includes automatic image quality detection. |
| EQ Bank | Yes | Free deposits; funds hold period applies. |
| Meridian CU | Yes | Member deposit limits apply. |
Most institutions allow mobile deposit; if not, we note "No official app" on our institution pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mobile deposit free?
Yes at most institutions. Some may count it as a transaction against your monthly limit.
How long before funds are available?
A deposit confirmation does not mean every dollar is available to spend. For qualifying Canadian-dollar cheques at federally regulated institutions, maximum holds generally depend on the amount and deposit method. Mobile or ATM deposits can have maximum holds of five business days for $1,500 or less and eight for more than $1,500, after deposit day; exceptions apply.
Can I deposit U.S. or foreign cheques?
Usually not. Many banks require foreign currency cheques to be deposited in branch.
Do I need to keep the paper cheque?
Yes. Follow your provider’s stated retention and secure-destruction requirements. There is no single paper-retention period assumed by this guide.
What if my bank doesn't offer mobile deposit?
You can deposit cheques at an ATM or branch, or consider opening an account with a bank that provides this feature.
Check the hold before spending
Ask about access to the first $100, the remaining hold, business-day cutoffs and exceptions. A new account, suspected fraud or a foreign cheque can be treated differently. See FCAC’s cheque-hold explanation. Hold guidance reviewed October 27, 2026.