How it works
Paper cheques are scanned at branches, ATMs or via mobile banking apps. The digital images are then exchanged between banks instead of the physical cheque.
Resources
Image Clearing System
The Image Clearing System (ICS) is the UK's modern, digital cheque clearing service. By exchanging images of cheques instead of paper, ICS clears funds in days rather than weeks while keeping the cheque option available for those who rely on it.
2017
Launched
Next day
Clearing time
All UK banks
Coverage
Faster funds
Cheques paid in by the end of the banking day are typically cleared by 23:59 the next weekday, with funds available to spend or withdraw.
Safer for everyone
Digital images reduce loss and damage in transit, while industry fraud controls scan every image for irregularities before settlement.
Inclusion by design
ICS preserves the cheque as a payment option for charities, small businesses and people who prefer or rely on it, modernised for the digital era.