How to Make a Deposit: A Step-by-Step Guide and Useful Tips
- Lapo Zarina
- Sep 13
- 3 min read
Making a deposit into your current account can be done in various ways, depending on the type of deposit (cash, checks, wire transfer) and the bank. Knowing the different methods and the associated precautions is essential for the security and good management of your finances.
1. Cash Deposit at the Counter
The most traditional method is to deposit cash directly at a counter of your bank.
Step 1: Prepare the documents. Bring your ID card and the account number you want to deposit into. In some cases, you might be asked for your debit card.
Step 2: Go to the branch. Go to your branch and ask for a deposit slip or the appropriate form.
Step 3: Fill out the form. Enter the required details: amount, purpose of the deposit and your account number.
Step 4: Hand over the money and form. Hand the cash and the completed form to the teller. The teller will verify everything and give you a receipt.
Advantages:
Ideal for large sums.
The transaction is immediately traceable and certified.
Disadvantages:
Possible commission fees.
Limitations due to branch opening hours.
2. Cash or Check Deposit via Advanced ATM
Many banks offer "advanced" ATMs that also allow for deposits.
Step 1: Insert your debit card. Insert your card and enter your PIN.
Step 2: Select the "Deposit" option. Follow the instructions on the screen.
Step 3: Insert the money/check. The ATM has a slot where you can directly insert banknotes (unbundled) or checks. The machine will automatically count the money or capture an image of the check.
Step 4: Confirm and retrieve the receipt. Confirm the amount shown on the screen and wait for the receipt to be printed.
Advantages:
Available 24/7.
Often free of charge.
Greater privacy.
Disadvantages:
There may be daily/monthly deposit limits.
In case of problems, there is no teller to ask for help.
3. Deposit via Bank Transfer
To deposit money from another current account (even from another bank), you simply need to make a bank transfer.
Step 1: Obtain the recipient's details. You will need the IBAN of the destination account and the name of the account holder.
Step 2: Access your Online Banking. Log in to your personal area online or via the app.
Step 3: Enter the transfer details. Fill out the form with the IBAN of the destination account, the amount, and the purpose of the deposit.
Step 4: Confirm the operation. Authorize the transfer, usually via an SMS code or another form of authentication.
Advantages:
You can do it conveniently from home, at any time.
It is fully traceable.
Ideal for account-to-account deposits.
Disadvantages:
The crediting time can take up to 1-2 business days.
Precautions and Useful Tips
Always check the receipt: Whether you deposit at the counter or at the ATM, always keep the receipt as proof of the transaction.
In case of ATM problems: If the ATM does not accept the deposit or gets stuck, do not leave. Immediately contact the bank (the number is usually printed on the machine or the receipt) and explain what happened.
Verify the purpose: Always enter a clear purpose, especially for bank transfers, to have a precise traceability of the reason for the deposit.
Do not exceed limits: If you make large cash deposits, check your country's anti-money laundering regulations, which impose limits beyond which banks are required to report transactions. In Switzerland, there is no limit for deposits, but the bank may ask for the origin of the funds if the transaction is of a large size.
Check the costs: Although not always the case, some deposit services, especially at the counter, may have commission fees. Check your contract or ask the teller to know the costs associated with your bank account.
Comments