Why isn't an "instant payment" instantly available?

[gsd]

I received an instant payment but the funds won't be available until 2/9.  Why is that?  That's not very "instant".

[snowshoe]

If your account is not veriified, it can cause delays in receiving funds.

[gsd]

Thanks, Snowshoe!

I just looked and I'm not verified.  I think I goofed when I just tried to become verified.  I saw that it wanted either a bank account or to get an Ebay (or Paypal) credit card.  I didn't want to do either of those so I went clicking around and came across something to verify the credit card I  have on file.  Next thing I know, I get a message that they're going to charge my card like $2 in order to get some 3 or 4 digit code.  I have no idea what that's going to do for me.  I'm not sure if that's how I'm going to get verified.

[snowshoe]

Yes, that's part of the credit card verification process.  Here's how it works, PayPal will charge your card $1.95.  What you need to do is either wait for the statement in the mail or if you can check online, look for the charge, you will also see PayPal and a 4 digit code in parentheses.  If you can check your card account online, you should see the transaction within 2 to 3 days.  Next, get the code, login to your PayPal account and input the code to finish the verification.  After you complete that task, PayPal will refund the $1.95 to your PayPal account balance.  That's it in a paragraph. If things go right, it's easy and painless.