PayPal checks work like any other check, but they come from PayPal's bank, not yours

A PayPal check is a paper check issued by PayPal or its banking partner when you request a withdrawal from your PayPal account. You cash it the same way you would cash any other check: deposit it at your bank, take it to a check-cashing store, or in some cases sign the back and have someone else deposit it for you. PayPal prints the check with your account information and the amount you requested to withdraw.

The check comes from PayPal's bank partner, which varies depending on your account type and location. When you deposit or cash the check, the funds transfer from that bank to wherever you're cashing it. This process typically takes the same amount of time as any other check deposit — usually one to five business days depending on your bank's policies.

Key Takeaways

  • PayPal checks are standard paper checks drawn on PayPal's bank partner and can be deposited or cashed like any other check.
  • You request a check withdrawal directly from your PayPal account settings, and PayPal mails it to your registered address.
  • Deposit times follow your bank's standard check deposit timeline, which is usually one to five business days.
  • Some check-cashing stores charge a fee to cash PayPal checks, while banks typically do not charge account holders to deposit them.

How to request a PayPal check withdrawal

Log into your PayPal account and go to your Wallet or Money section. Look for the option to withdraw funds or transfer money. Select "Check" as your withdrawal method if it appears as an option — not all account types offer this method. Enter the amount you want to withdraw and confirm your mailing address.

PayPal will mail the check to the address on file in your account. Delivery typically takes five to ten business days from the time you request it. You do not need to do anything else; the check arrives in your mailbox ready to cash or deposit.

Some PayPal account types do not offer check withdrawal as an option. If you do not see "Check" listed as a withdrawal method, your account may be limited to bank transfer, debit card, or other methods. Contact PayPal directly to confirm what withdrawal methods are available for your specific account.

Cashing a PayPal check at your bank

Take the check to your bank and deposit it into your account like you would any other check. If you have a checking or savings account at the bank, you can deposit it at a teller window, through an ATM if your bank offers mobile or ATM deposit, or through your bank's mobile app if it has mobile check deposit. There is typically no fee for account holders to deposit checks.

Your bank will place a hold on the funds while the check clears. This hold period varies by bank and the check amount, but usually lasts one to five business days. During this time, the funds may show as pending in your account but are not yet available to withdraw. Once the hold lifts, the money is yours to use.

Cashing a PayPal check at a check-cashing store

If you do not have a bank account or prefer not to use your bank, you can take the check to a check-cashing store. These businesses cash checks for a fee, which is usually a percentage of the check amount or a flat dollar amount. Fees vary widely by location and store — some charge 1 to 3 percent of the check value, while others charge a fixed fee like $5 or $10.

Bring your check and a valid photo ID. The store will verify the check and your identity, then give you cash on the spot or issue a money order or prepaid card. Ask about the fee before you hand over the check so you know exactly how much you will receive. Some stores offer lower fees for larger checks or for customers who use them regularly.

Endorsing a PayPal check for someone else

You can sign the back of a PayPal check and have someone else deposit it into their account, a practice called third-party deposit. Sign your name on the back of the check in the endorsement area, then write "Pay to the order of" followed by the other person's name. That person then signs below your name and deposits it into their account.

Not all banks accept third-party checks anymore. Call the bank where the check will be deposited and ask if they accept third-party deposits before you sign the check over. If they do not, you will need to deposit it into your own account first, then transfer the funds to the other person through another method.

Timing and what to expect

From the moment you request a PayPal check to the moment the funds are fully available in your account, expect the process to take two to three weeks. The first five to ten business days are the mailing time. Once you deposit or cash the check, add another one to five business days for the check to clear, depending on your bank or check-cashing store.

If you need funds faster, PayPal also offers bank transfer and debit card withdrawal options, which typically move money within one to three business days. Check withdrawal is slower but works if you do not have a bank account linked to PayPal or prefer a paper check for record-keeping purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my PayPal check never arrives in the mail?

Contact PayPal and report the missing check. They can cancel the original check and issue a replacement. Provide your mailing address and the date you requested the check. PayPal will remail a new check, which again takes five to ten business days to arrive.

Can I deposit a PayPal check into someone else's bank account?

Only if that person is willing to accept a third-party check and their bank allows it. You sign the back, they sign below you, and they deposit it. Many banks no longer accept third-party checks, so confirm with the receiving bank first.

Is there a maximum or minimum amount for a PayPal check?

PayPal sets limits on withdrawal amounts, but these vary by account type and history. Check your PayPal account settings to see your current withdrawal limits. You can request a check for any amount within your available balance and PayPal's limits.

What happens if the check amount is wrong?

Do not cash or deposit a check with an incorrect amount. Contact PayPal when ready and report the error. They can cancel the check and issue a corrected one. Keep the original check in case PayPal needs to verify the mistake.