About Using Checks

Checks, or at least check-like payments, have been around for centuries. In fact, they even predate Gutenberg's printing press, which was invented in 1440. They're one of the world's oldest payment methods still used to this day, although much less frequently than just a decade or two ago.

Even though modern-era checks first appeared in the UK, most online casinos here no longer list these as payment options. That's also the case with most online casinos in the US, but it's not because of their legality - online platforms have just moved on to other payment methods.

Why Use Checks for Online Casino Payments

While regular checks, also known as bank drafts, have been mostly replaced by their electronic counterparts and digital payment systems, there are still a few platforms that offer them. Their reasoning is simple - checks have more than a few benefits for online casino payments.

Here are just a few of these:

• Tradition and familiarity: Checks have been around for a while now, and millions of users trust them because of their long history. In fact, many older users still prefer them to modern-day systems, as they're already familiar with these conventional, cash-replacing payment methods.
• App-free payments: With almost every e-wallet and crypto today having their own app, things can quickly get overwhelming. Checks don't require any of that - all you need is a valid bank account and a checkbook, which you most likely already have, and you're good to go.
• Strong paper trail: Mailing a check to an online casino operator and cashing one yourself might take a while, but it leaves a detailed paper record of the transaction. For some users, that's a vital aspect, as it allows them to easily budget their funds and have a backup plan in case of a dispute.

How to Deposit With Checks at an Online Casino

If you've found yourself an online casino that still accepts regular checks, the depositing process will feel refreshingly old-school. It might not be the fastest, but it's something you're most likely already familiar with, and here's how it usually goes:

1. Register a casino account: Visit the online casino's official website and look for a Sign Up or Register button, usually in the top right. Once you've found it, tap it, fill in the necessary details, and create your casino account.
2. Complete the verification process: If the online platform requires it, you'll have to go through account verification before depositing. So, follow the KYC process, complete the steps, and you'll be good to go.
3. Request the casino's deposit details: With an account verified and ready, log onto the platform and head to the Deposit section. Look for checks among the payment methods and note the casino's mailing address and check-writing instructions.
4. Write and mail the check: Fill out your check with the deposit amount and the correct payee information. Then, opt for postal mail or courier with tracked delivery and mail the check to the online casino.
5. Wait for processing: One of the primary reasons why check payments are now rare is their slow processing. Thus, you'll need to give it a few business days for the funds to appear in your account.

How to Withdraw Funds From Your Casino Account With Checks

Check withdrawals are even more rare than deposits, but if an online casino offers them, requesting a payout with checks is super easy:

1. Go to the Withdrawal page: Once logged into your casino account, navigate to the platform's Withdrawal/Cashier section.
2. Select checks as the payment method: Browse the list of available payment methods and pick the check option.
3. Fill in your mailing address: Provide your full name, address, and withdrawal amount, and then double-check everything before you instruct the casino to send the check.
4. Wait for the check: Once you've submitted your withdrawal request, all that's left to do is wait, as it'll take several business days for the check to reach you.

Transaction Fees and Limits Associated With Checks

Unlike digital payment systems, which typically have standardized fees, those associated with checks depend on your bank and the casino you're playing at. In most cases, an online casino won't charge you a deposit fee for checks, but processing and courier fees are usually present.

Withdrawals are a different story, with most online casinos charging a flat processing fee in the $10-$50 range. Pair that with delivery times that sometimes take up to 2 weeks, and you can see why other payment methods have almost completely replaced checks.

In terms of transaction limits, online casinos usually have a much higher minimum deposit for checks than for digital payments. This is typically around $100, but might be higher on certain platforms. Meanwhile, maximum limits are usually in the $2,500-$50,000 range, depending on the casino.

Pros and Cons of Using Checks for Casino Payments

Checks have been a go-to payment option for centuries because they offer several advantages over cash. However, there are also certain areas in which they lack, so let's break down their strengths and weaknesses:

Pros:

• Familiar payment method trusted by millions
• No need for a digital wallet or a third-party app
• One of the safest transaction methods around
• Physical transaction record for budgeting and disputes
• Strong fraud protection from most banks

Cons:

• Incredibly slow processing and delivery times
• High minimums for both deposits and withdrawals
• Rarely available in online casinos
• Risk of mail loss or delivery issues

How Do Check Payments Compare to Alternative Options?

If you plan to cash out a large sum from an online casino and don't mind the wait, checks can be a solid withdrawal option. That is, if they're even available. While they stand out in terms of familiarity, app-free use, and transaction trails, they're a rare sight in most online casinos.

When you compare them to credit cards, mobile payments, or e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill, checks take much longer to process than these widely available alternatives. In fact, even crypto options leave checks in the dust regarding availability. And that's without mentioning the transaction speed differences, which are astronomical.