How Deposits & Withdrawals Are Processed and Why Timing Matters
Start with understanding.
Because knowing when money moves is just as important as knowing how much.
One of the most common questions we hear is why a deposit doesn’t show up right away—or why a withdrawal seems to process before a deposit. The answer usually comes down to timing and processing, not an error.
Here’s how deposits and withdrawals typically work and what to expect.
How Deposits Are Processed
When you make a deposit, it goes through a few steps before it’s fully available.
This can include:
Verification of the deposit
Processing time based on deposit type
Timing based on when the deposit is received
Some deposits may be available quickly, while others may take additional time to fully process. This is especially common with:
Check deposits
Mobile deposits
Deposits made after cutoff times
Deposits from other financial institutions
How Withdrawals Are Processed
Withdrawals are processed when a transaction is authorized and finalized.
This includes:
Debit card purchases
ATM withdrawals
Bill payments
Automatic payments
Once a withdrawal posts, the funds are removed from your account balance.
Why Withdrawals May Post Before Deposits
Deposits and withdrawals are processed separately and may follow different timelines.
That’s why you may see:
A withdrawal post before a deposit made the same day
Deposits made later in the day processing on the next business day
Transactions posting overnight
This timing is based on when transactions are received and finalized—not the order they were made.
How This Affects Your Available Balance
Your available balance reflects:
Posted withdrawals
Pending transactions
Deposits that have fully processed
If a deposit is still processing, it may not yet be included in your available balance—even if you can see it in your account activity.
Monitoring both timing and transaction status helps prevent surprises.
Why Timing Can Vary
Processing times can vary based on:
Deposit method
Time of day
Business days vs. weekends or holidays
External financial institutions
Because of these factors, deposits and withdrawals don’t always appear instantly or in the order you expect.
We’re Here to Help
If something doesn’t look right—or you’re unsure when funds will be available—our team is always happy to help explain what you’re seeing.
At Signet Federal Credit Union, clarity and transparency are part of how we support our members every day.
Deposits & Withdrawals: Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn’t my deposit available yet?
Some deposits require additional processing time depending on the type of deposit, when it was made, and verification steps.
Why did my withdrawal post before my deposit?
Deposits and withdrawals follow different processing timelines. A withdrawal may post before a deposit that is still processing.
Do weekends and holidays affect deposits?
Yes. Deposits and withdrawals generally process on business days, which can delay timing around weekends and holidays.
Does the time of day matter when I make a deposit?
Yes. Deposits made after cutoff times may begin processing on the next business day.
Are mobile deposits processed the same as in-branch deposits?
Mobile deposits may require additional verification and can take longer to fully process than in-branch deposits.
Why does my available balance look lower than expected?
Pending transactions, posted withdrawals, and deposits still processing can all affect your available balance.
Can Signet change deposit or withdrawal timing?
No. Processing timelines are influenced by deposit methods, payment networks, and other financial institutions.
How can I avoid surprises with my balance?
Track pending and posted transactions, allow time for deposits to process, and keep a cushion for transactions still in progress.
Who should I contact if I have questions about a transaction?
If you’re unsure about a deposit or withdrawal, contact your local Signet branch or reach out through digital banking. Our team is happy to help.