Why Deposits Sometimes Have Holds and What That Means for Your Money
Start with expectations.
Because seeing a deposit doesn’t always mean it’s ready to spend.
One common question we hear is, “Why is my deposit showing, but I can’t use the money yet?”
The answer usually comes down to something called a deposit hold.
Here’s what that means, why it happens, and what to expect.
What Is a Deposit Hold?
A deposit hold means that funds from a deposit are temporarily unavailable for spending, even though the deposit appears in your account activity.
During a hold:
The deposit is visible in your account
Some or all of the funds may not be available yet
The deposit is still being processed or verified
Holds are a normal part of the banking process and help prevent errors and fraud.
Why Deposit Holds Happen
Deposit holds may be placed for several reasons, including:
Check verification needs
Mobile or remote deposits
Deposits from another financial institution
Unusual deposit amounts
These steps help confirm the deposit can be completed successfully.
How Long Do Deposit Holds Last?
The length of a deposit hold can vary based on:
Deposit type
Amount
Deposit history
Verification timing
Some funds may be available quickly, while others may take additional business days to fully process.
Our team can help explain what applies to your specific deposit.
What You’ll See in Your Account
When a deposit has a hold, you may notice:
The deposit listed in your transaction history
A difference between your current balance and available balance
Funds becoming available in stages
This does not mean something is wrong—it simply reflects the processing timeline.
What to Do If You Need Funds Quickly
If you’re working with a tight timeline, it’s always a good idea to:
Ask about fund availability at the time of deposit
Plan ahead when making large or out-of-town deposits
Talk with a team member about your options
Our goal is to help you understand what to expect before surprises happen.
We’re Here to Help
If you have questions about a deposit hold or when funds will be available, our team is happy to walk through your situation and explain next steps.
At Signet Federal Credit Union, clarity and communication are part of how we support our members every day.
Deposit Holds: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a deposit hold?
A deposit hold is when funds from a deposit are temporarily unavailable while the deposit is processed or verified.
Why can I see my deposit but not use the money yet?
The deposit has been received, but the funds are still processing. This can affect your available balance until the hold is released.
Are deposit holds common?
Yes. Holds are a normal part of banking and may occur with certain types of deposits or situations.
Do mobile deposits have holds?
They can. Mobile deposits often require additional verification, which may result in a hold.
How long will my deposit be on hold?
Hold times vary depending on the deposit type, amount, and verification needs. A team member can help explain timing for your deposit.
Can Signet remove a deposit hold?
Deposit holds follow processing guidelines and verification requirements. Availability depends on when funds can be confirmed.
Why does my available balance look lower than my current balance?
This usually means some funds are on hold and not yet available for spending.
What can I do to avoid surprises with deposit holds?
Ask about fund availability when making a deposit, allow time for processing, and plan ahead for larger or time-sensitive deposits.
Who can I contact with questions about a deposit hold?
You can contact your local Signet branch or reach out through digital banking. Our team is happy to help explain what you’re seeing.