Are those recent deposits in your checking account “pending” or “available”? Not knowing the difference can cause confusion—especially when you need access to cash immediately. The friendly staff at Honolulu’s Hawaiian Tel Federal Credit Union can gladly clear up the confusion to ensure you have your funds whenever you need them!

Pending Balance Vs. Available Balance

When you monitor your checking account online or by phone, you’ll be able to see or hear if transactions are pending. While your credit union or bank has authorized the deposit, it may not have been fully approved for access. Depending on where you bought items or when a paycheck was sent through direct deposit, the pending process could take up to 48 hours.

Your available or current balance is the amount that is actually in your checking account for immediate access. There are no holds or pending transactions waiting to clear. If you’re planning to make a withdrawal or deposit, always refer to the available or current balance for the latest report of usable funds in your account.

Check Deposits Vs. Cash Deposits

If a check is deposited into a checking account, it’s usually cleared by the following business day. Some credit unions or banks will process checks the same day, but only if they are submitted before a particular time. If your paychecks come through as a direct deposit, the funds should be available on the day of posting.

Cash deposits are available for access on the same day the transaction was made. Some exceptions include making cash deposits through an ATM or teller on weekends, after a specific cutoff time, or on federal holidays.

Hawaiian Tel Federal Credit Union understands the importance of having access to cash, especially in emergency situations. As one of Hawaii’s top credit unions since 1936, they provide several checking account options designed for convenience, easy ATM access, online banking and dividend earnings.

See for yourself how Hawaiian Tel Federal Credit Union stands out from traditional banks! For information on the credit union’s extensive line of checking accounts, savings accounts, mortgage loans, and other financial products and services, call (808) 832-8700, or visit the website.