Courier checks might sound old-school in an era dominated by e-wallets and crypto, but for a surprising number of online casino players—especially in the U.S.—they’re still very much in play. While not as flashy as digital wallets or Bitcoin transfers, courier checks serve a specific audience: players who want a traditional, trackable way to get their winnings delivered straight to their door.
What Exactly Is a Courier Check?
A courier check is a physical paper check that an online casino sends to your home address using a courier service like FedEx, DHL, or UPS. Unlike a regular mail check that might arrive weeks later with no tracking, courier checks are shipped with speed and security in mind. That means tracking numbers, required signatures, and delivery confirmation.
They’re most commonly used for withdrawals—not deposits. So if you’re cashing out a win and don’t want it routed through digital payment systems, this is one of the few “tangible” options left in the online casino space.
Why Do Some Players Still Use Courier Checks?
Courier checks appeal to players who prefer not to use online banking, don’t want to deal with crypto, or have limited options because of banking restrictions in their country. This is especially true in regions where online gambling is allowed but heavily regulated, making digital payouts more difficult to process.
For some players, it’s simply about trust. A check in hand feels more “real” than digital balances moving between wallets. For others, it’s about avoiding third-party platforms altogether.
How the Courier Check Withdrawal Process Works
1. Requesting the Withdrawal
Once you’ve met any wagering requirements and confirmed your balance, you go to the casino’s cashier section and select “courier check” as your withdrawal method. You’ll need to enter your full name, physical address, and sometimes even verify your ID and utility bill.
2. Processing Time
After you submit the request, the casino will begin processing. This can take anywhere from 2 to 7 business days, depending on the site. During this time, they verify your account, audit your winnings, and prepare the check.
3. Shipment and Delivery
Once approved, the check is printed, sealed, and shipped via a major courier. Most casinos provide a tracking number so you can monitor it in real-time. Delivery times vary by location but are typically between 5 and 14 business days.
4. Depositing the Check
When it arrives, you can deposit it into your bank account just like any other check. Depending on your bank’s policies—especially if the check is drawn from an international bank—you might experience a hold of several business days before the funds are available.
Fees and Limits
Courier checks are rarely free. Many online casinos charge anywhere from $25 to $100 per check, often depending on the amount being withdrawn and the location it’s being shipped to. Some casinos even limit the number of courier checks you can request per month.
Also worth noting: the minimum withdrawal amount for a courier check is usually much higher than for digital methods—often $300 or more.
Pros of Courier Checks
- Secure Delivery: Unlike traditional mail, courier services offer real tracking and require a signature, adding peace of mind.
- No Third-Party Platforms: You’re not linking to PayPal, Skrill, or any other digital service.
- Paper Trail: For people who want a physical, bank-depositable record of their winnings, it doesn’t get more concrete than a check.
Cons of Courier Checks
- Slow Turnaround: End-to-end, the process can easily take two weeks or more.
- High Fees: You’re paying for the physical delivery and processing, which adds up fast—especially on smaller withdrawals.
- Potential Bank Holds: If the check is issued from a foreign bank, your local bank might place a multi-day hold on the deposit.
Things to Watch Out For
1. Accuracy of Personal Info
Make sure your name and address are exactly as they appear on your bank account and ID. Even a small mismatch can delay processing or delivery.
2. Expiry Dates
Some checks issued by online casinos have relatively short expiration windows. Always deposit them as soon as you receive them.
3. Courier Restrictions
Some couriers won’t deliver to PO Boxes or remote regions without delays. If you’re outside a major city, delivery could take longer than expected.
4. Banking Compatibility
Not all banks accept international checks without delay or even additional paperwork. It’s a good idea to check with your bank beforehand to avoid surprises.
5. Withdrawal Limits
Most casinos impose limits on how much you can withdraw via courier checks per transaction, per week, or per month. If you’re trying to cash out a large amount, be prepared for it to be split into multiple checks over time.
When Is a Courier Check the Right Choice?
If you don’t use crypto, don’t trust e-wallets, and prefer the reliability of a physical, traceable transaction, courier checks are still a valid option. They’re not the fastest or cheapest method—but they are one of the most straightforward, especially for high-value cashouts where you want a paper trail and direct deposit into a personal account.
Courier checks aren’t the future of online gambling transactions—but for now, they’re still a relevant part of the ecosystem for a specific kind of player. If you’re one of them, it’s worth knowing exactly how the process works before you click that withdrawal button.