What distinguishes bank float from customer float?

Bank float is distinguished by its connection to the bank's receipt of usable funds. When a check is deposited, there is a period where the funds may not yet be available in the customer's account but are effectively available to the bank. This temporary disparity allows the bank to access these funds, impacting cash management and liquidity.

In contrast, customer float represents the delay or lag in the customer's account where the funds have not yet cleared, preventing the customer from accessing these amounts. Understanding the difference between these two concepts is essential for effective cash flow management in banking and finance, as they both affect how and when funds are utilized in the banking system.