Sent payment via e-check

[WhattheF1]

I sent my brother money today.  He got the email that it was rec'd but that it was sent via e-check instead of electronically.  I didn't ask for it to be sent electronically, but when I go to send test amounts to others, I noticed the Deliver by date is picked automatically.  For my husband, it was seconds, for my brother, it only gave an option of Sept 5.  I feel like when I spoke with customer service, they made it my fault.

[kernowlass · Accepted solution]

@WhattheF1 

Transfers from bank accounts are never instant as Paypal use electronic transfers ie echeques (cheaper but slower).

Funds normally leave your bank account from a few hours > few days later but they take several working days to clear through to the seller/Paypal as they go via ACH in batches.

Its called instant because normally Paypal credit the seller upfront and then Paypal take the wait for the funds to transfer, this is so you get your item without delay.

However there are times however when its you and the seller / recipient that take the wait for the echeque to clear and here are some of the reasons...

1. Back up card has expired or needs updating.
2. You have had a recent negative balance or failed bank transfer (so paypal are not going to credit the seller in advance in case it happens again).
3. For some high cost riskier payments / transactions.
4. Friends / family payments *funded from a bank account* as this option is free then its you that takes the wait this time. If you want instant you use a debit or credit card and pay a fee.
5. Clearing a negative balance.