PayPal lets you deposit checks directly from your phone through the Ingo Money feature in the PayPal app. It’s a convenient way to add funds without visiting a bank — but it comes with limits, fees, and hold times that vary by check type. This 2025 guide explains PayPal’s check deposit limits, how long it takes for funds to clear, and how to avoid common issues with delayed or rejected deposits.
How PayPal Check Deposit Works
PayPal uses a service called Ingo Money to process check deposits. You simply take pictures of the front and back of your check within the PayPal app, select how quickly you want the money, and confirm the deposit.
- Step 1: Open the PayPal app and tap “Add Money.”
- Step 2: Choose “Add from Check.”
- Step 3: Take clear photos of the front and back.
- Step 4: Choose between standard or instant deposit.
- Step 5: Wait for approval and receive confirmation.
Deposits are reviewed by Ingo Money for authenticity, endorsement, and sufficient funds.
PayPal Check Deposit Limits
PayPal limits the amount and frequency of check deposits for security and compliance reasons. Limits depend on account verification, activity, and check type.
| Type of Limit | Amount |
|---|
| Per Check | $5,000 |
| Daily Limit | $5,000 |
| Monthly Limit | $15,000 |
| Check Count Limit | Up to 10 per month |
Business accounts may have higher limits, while new users or unverified accounts start with lower thresholds until account history improves.
Standard vs Instant Deposit Speed
PayPal offers two deposit options through Ingo Money:
- Standard deposit: Free; funds available in 10 days or less once the check clears.
- Instant deposit: Funds available within minutes for a fee (1%–5%, depending on the check type).
You’ll see a confirmation screen showing the exact availability estimate before submitting your deposit.
Typical Hold Times by Check Type
Hold times vary depending on the payer and check category.
| Check Type | Standard Processing Time |
|---|
| Payroll or Government Checks | Within minutes (instant) or up to 5 business days |
| Personal Checks | 5–10 business days |
| Cashier’s or Business Checks | 1–5 business days |
| Large Checks ($5,000+) | May require manual review and longer hold |
PayPal Check Deposit Fees
PayPal’s check deposit feature is powered by Ingo Money, which charges only for instant deposits.
- Standard deposit: Free
- Instant deposit: 1% of the check amount for government or payroll checks; 5% for all others (minimum $5 fee)
You’ll see the exact fee before confirming the deposit. PayPal deducts the fee from your total, and the remaining funds post to your balance.
Common Reasons PayPal Deposits Are Delayed
- Unclear or incomplete endorsement (missing “For mobile deposit only to PayPal”)
- Low-light or blurry check images
- Check amount exceeds your limit
- Depositing third-party or altered checks
- New or unverified PayPal account
To speed up approval, endorse your check clearly, take photos in good lighting, and confirm your identity in the PayPal app before submitting.
Where Deposited Funds Appear
Once approved, your funds appear directly in your PayPal balance. You can use them to:
- Send money to others
- Pay for purchases online or in stores
- Transfer to your bank account or debit card instantly
- Withdraw cash using a linked card or ATM
Final Thoughts
PayPal’s mobile check deposit feature offers quick access to your funds, especially if you use instant deposits through Ingo Money. Standard processing is free but can take up to 10 days depending on the check type and account status. For faster access to your cash, explore other digital options like
Venmo or
Cardless Cash App withdrawals.