Can You Cash a Check With PayPal?

Preparing for Mobile Check Deposit

To deposit a check with PayPal, your account must be in good standing and verified. This often involves linking a bank account or confirming your identity.

PayPal accepts common check types, including payroll, government-issued, and cashier’s checks. Personal checks are also accepted. However, money orders, foreign checks, or temporary starter checks are not eligible for mobile deposit.

You must sign the back of the check in the endorsement area. Additionally, write “For Mobile Deposit Only to PayPal” below your signature. This ensures the check is processed correctly.

You will need a smartphone with the PayPal app installed and a stable internet connection. The physical check must also be available for photographing.

Submitting Your Check Through PayPal

To submit your check, open the PayPal app and navigate to the “Cash a Check” or “Mobile Check Deposit” feature. This option allows you to initiate the deposit.

The app will guide you to capture images of the check. Take a clear photo of the front, ensuring all four corners are visible and the image is well-lit. Then, take a clear photo of the back, ensuring the endorsement is legible.

After capturing both images, review them and manually enter the exact amount of the check. Verify the entered amount matches the check’s written and numerical values.

Upon confirming the details and images, submit the check for review. Keep the physical check in a secure place until the funds are fully credited to your PayPal balance.

Understanding Funds Availability and Fees

After submitting your check, it enters a review process to verify its validity and your account’s eligibility. PayPal then determines the availability of funds, which can vary. Some checks might be eligible for “instant” access, with funds available within minutes, though this often comes with an associated fee.

For checks not qualifying for instant access, or if you opt out, funds typically become available within a few business days. Factors like the check amount, your account history, and the issuing bank’s policies can influence the hold period.

PayPal may charge a fee for its mobile check deposit service, particularly for instant access. This fee is generally a percentage of the check amount, or a flat fee, and is deducted from the deposited funds. If you choose the standard processing option, the service is typically offered without a fee, though processing times are longer.

There are also limits on the amount and number of checks you can deposit, which can be set daily, weekly, or monthly. Checks can be rejected for various reasons, including poor image quality, an invalid check, or insufficient funds from the issuer’s bank. If a check is rejected, you will be notified.