Remember when you had to wait for a check to clear before you could touch the money?

Back in 2019, I had a client send a $2,000 check that I needed fast for a supplier. The bank said it would take 5 business days to fully clear. I remembered reading somewhere that some banks let you use mobile deposit and then call to ask for a courtesy hold release. I tried it with my local credit union, deposited the check via their app, and immediately called the branch manager. I explained the situation, and because my account was over 3 years old with good history, they cleared $1,500 of it for me that same afternoon. It wasn't the full amount, but it got me what I needed. Has anyone else found a decent workaround for check holds lately, or is it all just instant transfers now?

3 comments

3 Comments

gibson.elizabeth5d ago

I always thought holds were set in stone until that happened.

jennyp195d ago

Seriously, right? It's wild how banks can just change the rules on you like that. Makes you wonder what else they can adjust whenever they feel like it.

carr.brooke5d ago

Wait, is this still a real problem for people? I haven't seen a paper check in like two years. Everything's Zelle or direct deposit now. Even my landlord uses an app. Maybe it's just certain businesses stuck in the past?

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