You can cash a check on PayPal using just your phone no need to visit a bank or ATM. This guide explains exactly how to use the PayPal app to deposit personal, payroll, or government checks and get your money quickly. Whether you want instant access (for a small fee) or prefer to wait and skip the charges, we’ll show you how both options work.
By the end, you’ll know how to cash a check on PayPal, what you need before you start, how long it takes, what fees apply, and what to do if your check gets declined. Everything here is designed to help you get your funds fast and safely without ever leaving home.
What is PayPal Check Cashing?
PayPal Check Cashing is a built-in feature in the PayPal mobile app that lets you deposit checks straight from your phone. You don’t need to visit a bank or use an ATM. Just snap photos of your check, submit it in the app, and choose how fast you want the money.
This service is powered by Ingo Money, a trusted financial partner that reviews and processes the checks. It works for many types of checks, including personal checks, payroll checks, and government-issued checks like tax refunds or Social Security payments.
Using the PayPal check deposit feature is simple. Open the app, tap “Cash a Check,” take photos of the front and back, and follow the steps to complete your deposit. The app will guide you through everything.
If approved, you can either get your money in minutes (for a small fee) or wait about 10 days to get it free. This feature is officially called the PayPal Ingo check service, and it’s available to most U.S. users with verified accounts.
Requirements Before You Begin
To cash a check on PayPal, make sure you meet these basic requirements. Without them, the feature may not work or your check may be rejected.
- Verified PayPal Account: Your account must be fully verified. That means your identity is confirmed, your email is verified, and your linked bank or card is active. Without verification, you won’t be able to use the mobile check deposit feature.
- Must Live in the U.S.: PayPal Check Cashing is only available to users with a valid U.S. mailing address. International users are not eligible.
- Clear Photos of the Check: You’ll need a smartphone with a camera. Make sure you have good lighting to capture both the front and back of the check clearly. Blurry images or poor lighting can cause delays or rejections when you upload check to PayPal.
- Endorsed Check: Don’t forget to sign the back of the check before taking a photo. It must be properly endorsed or it won’t be approved.
- Optional: Enable Direct Deposit: While not required, having direct deposit set up in your PayPal wallet makes it easier to manage funds once the check is processed.
To use mobile check deposit with PayPal smoothly, it’s important that your personal info matches the details on the check, and your app is updated to the latest version.
Step-by-Step: How to Cash a Check on PayPal
Follow these steps to cash a check on PayPal using your phone:
Step 1: Open the PayPal App and Tap “Cash a Check”
Launch the PayPal app. On the home screen, scroll down and select the “Cash a Check” option. If you don’t see it, make sure your app is updated to the latest version and your account is verified.
Step 2: Endorse the Check (Sign the Back)
Sign the back of the check exactly how your name appears on the front. You may also need to write “For mobile deposit only at PayPal” under your signature.
Step 3: Take Clear Photos (Front and Back)
Use your phone’s camera to take a clear photo of the front, then the back of the check. Make sure all four corners are visible, and place it on a dark, flat surface for better contrast. Good lighting helps avoid rejections.
Step 4: Choose How You Want to Receive Funds
PayPal gives you two options:
- Instant Deposit – Get your money in minutes (with a small fee).
- Standard Deposit – Get your money in up to 10 days (no fee).
Choose the one that works best for your needs.
Step 5: Submit and Wait for Approval
After uploading both images and selecting your deposit method, submit the check. Most checks are reviewed within minutes, but some may take a little longer depending on the check type and amount.
Important Tip: Double-Check Amount and Endorsement
Before you submit, confirm the check amount matches exactly and the signature is clear. A mismatch or missing signature can delay or cancel the process. Once approved, your funds will appear in your PayPal balance or your linked account, depending on your settings.
How Long Does It Take to Cash a Check on PayPal?
Cashing a check on PayPal can take minutes or up to 10 days, depending on which option you choose.
- Instant Deposit: If you pick the instant option and your check is approved, the money is usually available in less than 5 minutes.
- Standard Deposit: If you go with the no-fee option, it takes up to 10 full days for the funds to clear and be added to your balance.
Approval speed depends on check type, amount, and your PayPal account status. Some checks may trigger a manual review, which can slow things down.
If there’s a delay, PayPal might be verifying your identity, reviewing the check for security, or checking for past issues. Most users see faster results once they’ve used the PayPal check deposit service a few times with no problems.
PayPal Check Cashing Fees Explained
PayPal check cashing has two fee structures: free standard processing or paid instant deposit.
Standard Deposit – Free
If you’re willing to wait up to 10 days, there is no fee. Once approved, the full check amount is added to your PayPal balance.
Instant Deposit – With a Fee
If you need your money faster, you can choose the instant option. Here’s how the PayPal instant deposit fee works:
- 1% fee for payroll and government checks
- 5% fee for personal or other check types
- Minimum fee: $5 per check
Example Fee Calculation
- A $1,000 government check = $10 fee (1%)
- A $300 personal check = $15 fee (5%)
- A $50 personal check = $5 flat fee (minimum)
Always review the fee before confirming your deposit. The app shows the total clearly before you proceed.
Why Was My Check Rejected on PayPal?
If your check was rejected on PayPal, there’s usually a clear reason behind it. Below are the most common issues and what you can do to fix them.
1. Blurry or Incomplete Photos
If the image is out of focus, has shadows, or cuts off part of the check, PayPal won’t accept it.
Fix: Place the check on a dark, flat surface. Use good lighting and make sure all four corners are visible.
2. Duplicate Check Submission
Checks can only be deposited once. If you’ve already deposited the check somewhere else—or tried more than once with PayPal—it will be declined.
Fix: Only upload the check to one service. Don’t attempt multiple submissions.
3. Unverified PayPal Account
PayPal won’t process checks for accounts that are not verified.
Fix: Verify your identity in the app by confirming your name, address, and linking a valid bank account or card.
4. Name Mismatch on the Check
The name on the check must match the name on your PayPal account. If they don’t match, your check won’t go through.
Fix: Use only checks made out to your legal name listed in PayPal.
5. Check Amount Exceeds Limits
There’s a maximum amount you can deposit per check or per day.
Fix: Review PayPal’s check deposit limits inside the app and make sure you’re within the allowed amount.
6. Old or Post-Dated Check
Checks that are too old (over 6 months) or post-dated for the future often get declined.
Fix: Use checks that are dated correctly and within their valid period.
How to Fix PayPal Check Issues
- Update your PayPal app before trying again.
- Re-upload with clearer photos.
- Endorse the check correctly.
- Match your ID details with your PayPal name.
- Use a supported check type (personal, payroll, government).
What Happens After Your Check is Approved?
Once PayPal approves your check, the money is added to your PayPal balance. You’ll see the full amount (minus any fees if you chose instant deposit) listed under your available funds.
Where the Funds Go
The approved funds are stored directly in your PayPal wallet. You can access this balance instantly through the app or desktop site.
Using the Balance
You can:
- Pay for items online where PayPal is accepted
- Send money to friends or family
- Use the balance to cover subscriptions or invoices
- Pay bills if the service supports PayPal
Transferring to Your Bank
If you prefer to move the money to your bank:
- Tap “Transfer” inside your wallet
- Choose your linked bank account
- Select Standard (1–3 days, free) or Instant (typically 1%, fee applies)
- Funds will be available in your bank based on the option you select.
Getting a PayPal Debit Card
You can also request the PayPal Debit Mastercard to spend the balance directly in stores or withdraw cash from ATMs. There’s no monthly fee, and it connects directly to your PayPal balance, making it easy to use your funds anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
Alternatives If PayPal Doesn’t Work for You
If you can’t cash a check on PayPal or the feature isn’t available to you, there are other trusted mobile apps you can use. These apps let you deposit checks online from your phone, just like PayPal.
1. Ingo Money App
Ingo Money powers PayPal’s check cashing service and also works as a standalone app.
Pros:
- Instant deposit available
- Accepts a wide range of checks
- Works with prepaid cards and bank accounts
Cons:
- Fees for instant cashing
- App can sometimes be slow to approve checks
2. Venmo (by PayPal)
Venmo offers a mobile check deposit feature to eligible users through Ingo Money.
Pros:
- Funds go straight to your Venmo balance
- Simple interface for mobile users
- Good for peer-to-peer spending
Cons:
- Limited availability
- Requires identity verification and bank setup
3. Cash App
Cash App allows mobile check deposits for some verified users.
Pros:
- Checks go to Cash App balance
- Easy transfer to linked debit cards
- Great for everyday money transfers
Cons:
- Only available to selected users
- No instant option for most users
4. Mobile Banking Apps (Like Chime, Netspend, or Go2Bank)
Many online banks support mobile check deposit directly in their apps.
Pros:
- Built-in check deposit with no third-party apps
- Free standard processing
- Bank-level security
Cons:
- Usually no instant cashing
- May take 3–5 business days to clear
Quick Comparison Table
| App | Instant Deposit | Fees | Linked Account Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| PayPal | Yes | 1–5% | PayPal Wallet |
| Ingo Money | Yes | 1–5% | Bank, Prepaid Cards |
| Venmo | Yes (limited) | 1–5% | Venmo Balance |
| Cash App | No (in most cases) | Free | Cash App Balance |
| Chime | No | Free | Chime Account |
| Netspend | No | Free | Netspend Card |
FAQs
Can I deposit a handwritten check?
No. PayPal only accepts printed checks issued by employers, businesses, or government agencies. Handwritten checks are not supported.
Does PayPal accept third-party checks?
No. The check must be made out to the same name listed on your verified PayPal account. Third-party checks will be rejected.
Is PayPal check cashing safe?
Yes. PayPal uses encrypted systems and partners with Ingo Money to review and process checks. Every deposit goes through secure verification.
Can I cash multiple checks?
Yes. You can submit more than one check, but each must be submitted separately. Daily and monthly limits may apply based on your account.
Is there a check cashing limit on PayPal?
Yes. Limits vary by user. Typically, you can deposit up to $5,000 per check and up to $15,000 per month. Check your app for your exact limits.
Do I need a PayPal debit card to access my money?
No. A PayPal debit card is optional. You can use the PayPal app to send, spend, or transfer funds without the card.
How do I cancel a submitted check on PayPal?
You can’t cancel a check once it’s submitted. If it’s declined or not processed, the funds won’t be added to your balance and the check remains valid.
What if my check is stuck in review?
Some checks take longer due to additional verification. If it’s been over 24 hours, contact PayPal or Ingo Money support for help.
Will PayPal notify me when the check is approved?
Yes. You’ll get a notification in the app and by email once the check is accepted or if any issues come up.
Do I have to keep the paper check?
Yes. Keep the check for at least two weeks after it’s approved, just in case PayPal needs to verify or reprocess it. After that, destroy it securely.
Final Thoughts
Cashing a check on PayPal is quick, simple, and secure. You take a photo, submit it through the app, and choose how fast you want your money. It works best for people who don’t want to visit a bank or wait in long lines.
This feature is a smart option for freelancers, gig workers, remote employees, and anyone who receives paper checks but prefers digital money access. If you need funds fast, the instant deposit option gives you quick access for a small fee. If you’re not in a rush, you can wait up to 10 days and get the full amount with no fee.
Give it a try if you meet the basic requirements and want a safe way to deposit checks without the hassle. Make sure your app is updated, your account is verified, and your check details are clear.