Can You Deposit Checks Into PayPal?

PayPal is a convenient hub from which you can receive, use, and transfer money. PayPal works much like a checking account and -- thanks to a free app the company developed for iOS users -- it is now possible to deposit business and personal checks using the camera on a smartphone or tablet. This makes PayPal more convenient and versatile than ever before.

A check deposited into a PayPal account can only be made out to the person who owns the account. Third-party checks are not accepted. PayPal accepts personal and business checks from all banks as long as they are not made out to “cash.” PayPal does not accept traveler’s checks, cashier’s checks or money orders. PayPal allows up to $1,000 in checks to be captured in a single day, but caps each account holder at $3,000 in checks per month.

Before you can begin depositing checks, you must visit PayPal’s website or the Apple App Store and download the PayPal app. Follow the prompts to finish the installation. Once this process is completed, you may immediately begin depositing checks as long as you have an active PayPal account.

To capture a check, launch the PayPal app. Click on the button that says “tools” and then select “add money from checks.” Select “capture new check” and make sure the camera on your device is ready. You will need to take pictures of both the front and back of the check. Make sure it is signed before you do this and complete the process for one check before starting it for another. There should be good lighting during both captures and no other objects should be in the frame. As long as the picture is crisp, the check is not cut off in the frame, and all writing is clearly visible, it should be accepted.

After taking pictures of the check, you will be prompted to manually enter the amount for which it was issued. After doing so, click “process check” and you are finished. It takes between five and six business days for PayPal to process the check and verify it is authentic. PayPal recommends that you keep the check for up to 15 business days. Once the money is available in your account, destroy the check.