What is the risk of accepting checks rather than paypal?

Question

what is the risk of accepting checks rather than paypal?

i am selling something and theres a buyer that will send me checks instead of paypal. i stated that it will be free shipping.. yet he insist of paying for shipping. is this fishy? how high is the risk? or i have nothing to lose?

Answer 1

A red flag is that the buyer insists on paying for more than was agreed in the auction.  He could just be a nice guy, but maybe not.

In this situation, I would insist on a Postal Money Order.  If they balk at that, walk away.

On the other hand, if you did not state "paypal only" in the auction, you should honor the terms you set forth.  Make sure the check clears after you deposit it.  Do this by calling the bank, not by just waiting a specified period of time.

Also, if the check is not in the exact amount agreed to, send it back and ask them to send you another.

Answer 2

If someone wants to send you a check, simply wait for the check to clear your bank before you send the item(s). There are many scam artists out there so it's wise to second-guess those who don't want to do business the way you want to. If a person sends you a check for more than the item is worth and they want you to immediately cash the check and send them the cash difference...IT'S A SCAM!!!

Answer 3

nothing to lose, just DON"T send the item until the check has cleared!  Make it clear that it will be at least a week before you send the item out.  Call your bank about 5 days after you deposited it and ask them if it cleared yet.

Answer 4

My husband sold an item he accepted a check for.  He mailed the item, deposited the check, and it took two full weeks to bounce!

He never got his money because the guy lived in another state.  Husband had to pay bank fees too!

So, I would not send the merchandise until the check clears. It can take a while to clear too.

Paypal has less risk that way, but if the buyer does a chargeback, then you are out money and merchandise too.

It's a game with ebay.  Only sell to those who have positive feedback.