There are so many ways you can pay for your online purchases nowadays, and electronic checks are one of them. This payment method is getting popular as there are more people looking to shop with online retailers that accept eChecks. You don’t even need a credit or debit card to get started.
What’s even better is that eChecks don’t ask for any of your personal information, which makes them incredibly safe to use online. In this post, we have gone through each site and carefully identified those retailers that accept eChecks online, and anything in-between, especially when it comes to paying with eChecks.
Online Retailers that Accept eChecks
Here are some top retailers that let you pay with eChecks. Remember, some stores only accept direct transfers, while others may ask for your bank details for PayPal or online banking transfers.
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Wayfair
Talking about online retailers that accept eChecks, Wayfair, a popular online store, understands the convenience of eCheck payments and offers this option on its website. It could be either a personal check or a cashier’s check. And you will be required to enter the information on the check or scan it. However, payment by check may delay the order processing time.
In addition to checks, Wayfair also accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and Wayfair gift cards. Wayfair may have certain terms and conditions for check payments, such as requiring the check to be issued by a U.S. bank and having a valid billing address. So, you need to review the specific requirements on their website at the time of payment.
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Walmart
Walmart allows you to shop online using your checking account and accepts eCheck payments. To use your checking account as a payment option, you can call Customer Service to place an order using a check or money order.
Keep in mind that your check must be in US dollars and from a US bank, as they won’t accept foreign checks. Walmart accepts personal checks and money orders, so once you’ve placed your order, you can send them your payment along with a copy of your receipt or by noting your order number on the check or money order.
If you choose to send a check, please note that your order will only be processed after the check clears, which typically takes around 5 business days for most US banks.
Aside from checks, Walmart also accepts several other payment methods such as major credit cards, debit cards, Walmart gift cards, and PayPal.
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Amazon
You can’t talk about online retailers that accept eChecks without mentioning Amazon. When it comes to online shopping, Amazon reigns supreme, and they recognize the importance of providing various payment options, including eChecks.
Now, if you’d like to use your checking account during the checkout process, you can follow these steps: at the Shipping and Payment stage, select “Add a checking account.” Then, enter the bank routing number (also known as the ABA code) and your account number. It’s important to have an ACH-enabled checking account at a US bank branch.
Additionally, provide the name, address, and valid US driver’s license number or state-issued ID number of the principal account holder, along with the issuing state.
Note that if you’re uncertain whether your account allows electronic payments, it’s best to contact your bank to confirm. As long as your checking account is a personal account located at a US bank branch, you can use it for payment. However, savings accounts are not eligible for this payment method.
Lastly, please be aware that corporate and business bank accounts are only accepted for Amazon Business Accounts. Keep in mind that routing numbers consist of nine digits, while account numbers can be up to 17 digits long.
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eBay
eBay offers a wide variety of products, from electronics to fashion, providing you with the opportunity to use your eCheck for a convenient shopping experience.
While eBay offers eCheck payments on certain listings, it’s important to note that this payment method is chosen by individual sellers as eBay does not directly accept checks as a form of payment.
When shopping on eBay, make sure to find sellers who accept eChecks as a payment option. Once you locate a listing that allows eCheck payments, you can shop and pay for the items directly through eBay without the need to link your checking account. But you need to carefully review the payment methods accepted by each seller before making a purchase.
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Oriental Trading
Oriental Trading, known for party items, offers the option to shop using your checking account. To do this, you need to mail your completed order form in an envelope, including credit card information, money order, cashier’s check or personal check imprinted with current address information.
If you have a P.O. Box address printed on your check, then you have to write your street address somewhere on the check. Then you simply follow up with the customer service and you’re done.
In addition to checks, they also accept other payment methods such as major credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and Oriental Trading gift cards.
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Sears
Another top online retailer that accepts eChecks is Sears, a trusted store that understands the importance of accommodating different payment preferences and offers the option to shop using an eCheck online.
During checkout, you have the choice to select PayPal as the payment method or shop directly through your online banking website. You may need to provide your check information, including the routing number and account number. Then sit back and have your desired items delivered to your doorstep.
Remember that just like other stores that accept checks, Sears may have certain terms and conditions for check payments, such as requiring the check to be issued by a U.S. bank, an order having to be of a minimum amount and having a valid billing address.
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Cabela’s
Cabela’s is another popular online retailer that accepts eChecks. However, on Cabela’s, personal checks or money orders can only be used as a payment method on mail orders. This means you need to place an order by mail (with a printable mail-in order form) on Cabela’s website before you can use a check as a payment method.
Whether you’re looking for camping gear, hunting equipment, or outdoor apparel, Cabela’s will allow you to conveniently use your eCheck for payment.
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Target
While it doesn’t exactly meet the necessary requirements to be on this list due to the fact that Target doesn’t offer checks as a payment option on its website, it’s still a notable inclusion. Yes, they allow checks as a payment option.
Target is a store that happily accepts personal checks as a payment method for purchases made in-store. However, it’s important to note that Target does not provide check cashing services. When using a check to pay at Target, it may be necessary to present a photo ID for verification purposes. Fortunately, Target accepts a variety of photo IDs issued by state, federal, or military authorities. This includes valid driver’s licenses or state-issued, non-driver identification cards.
One great thing about paying by check at Target is that there are no specific requirements regarding the minimum amount you can spend or any limits imposed on the check payment option. This means that you have the freedom to use a check for purchases of any amount at Target.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that Target exclusively accepts personal checks issued by banks located in the United States. They do not accept any form of foreign checks, traveler’s checks, cashier’s checks, or any other types of checks apart from personal ones.
So, if you’re planning to pay by check at Target, make sure it’s a personal check from a U.S. bank account and have your photo ID handy to complete the transaction smoothly.
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B&H
For photography and videography enthusiasts, B&H is a go-to online retailer that accepts eChecks, and they understand the importance of offering flexible payment options. When shopping at B&H, you can choose to pay with your checking account. Similar to other stores, you have the choice to either select PayPal as the payment method or shop directly through your online banking website.
The only thing is that there are certain conditions that must be met such as a minimum order amount, and ID verification.
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Etsy
Etsy is one online retailer that accepts eChecks and the best part? They have a wide variety of unique items for you to shop for.
Though not directly, you can make purchases on Etsy with checks. All you have to do is find a seller who accepts checks as a payment option through Etsy, then make your payment.
According to Etsy, “Etsy Payments users can accept payment from buyers by credit card, debit card, Etsy Gift Card, Etsy Credit, Etsy Coupon, some bank transfer services, PayPal (where available), Apple Pay, and Google Pay”.
Keep in mind that you can select PayPal as the payment method or shop directly with your online banking website, whichever is available. And you also have to verify your order with a valid means of identification. The other thing is that there are country-specific payment methods on Etsy, so you must know that not all payment methods will be available to you.
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Neiman Marcus
Neiman Marcus, a distinguished retailer known for luxury items also offers the option to shop using eChecks on their website. Neiman Marcus caters to those with discerning tastes, offering a range of fine products and luxury items for individuals seeking an elegant lifestyle.
When browsing through Neiman Marcus’ exquisite collection, you can choose to use your eCheck as a payment method. Alternatively, they provide the option to shop using PayPal and other major payment methods.
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Fashion Nova
If you want to make sure your wardrobe is up to date, Fashion Nova is a shop you don’t want to miss. Fashion Nova is an online retailer that accepts eChecks and specializes in fashion attire. It also offers various payment options to its customers. To pay with checks, you need to go through PayPal. So you need to use PayPal-related accounts.
They also accept payments through Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Zip, Afterpay, Fashion Nova gift cards, PayPal, Amazon Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
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Appliances Connection, Inc.
Appliances Connection, Inc. is an official retailer for several major appliance and furniture manufacturers. Clients have the choice of paying by eCheck or by sending a paper check through the mail. If you prefer to pay by personal check, you can call (800) 299-9470 and set up the payment.
In addition to this, Appliances Connections also accepts other traditional forms of payment such as Discover, MasterCard, Visa, or American Express Card. They also offer financing options so you can buy what you want and pay at a later time (although you need to get approved first).
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Best Buy
Best Buy is not just a leading provider of technology products, services, and solutions, but they also understand convenience. As such, they accept eChecks as one of the various forms of payment for purchases made online.
Among these payment methods, Best Buy accepts personal checks, business checks, and cashier’s checks. This provides you with the flexibility to choose a payment method that best suits your needs.
Whether you’re a personal shopper or a business, you can make your purchases using a personal check, a business check, or a cashier’s check, offering a convenient and secure way to pay for your items.
How to Shop at Online Retailers that Accept eChecks
If you love shopping online, you’re in luck because eChecks are now widely accepted. You can easily find places that offer instant online check cashing, allowing you to shop online with eChecks right away. All you need is your personal checking account to make purchases on the internet.
The process of paying with an eCheck online is simple. Here’s how it works:
- Shop as you normally would on your favorite online stores.
- During checkout, enter your bank routing number and checking account information.
- The store will securely pass this information to the payment option.
Various ways to shop online and pay with eChecks
There are different ways to shop online and pay with eChecks. It all depends on whether you have a checking or savings account. Paying with a checking account involves transferring funds from your account to the online store, which is a safe and secure method of online shopping.
Here are four basic ways to pay with your checking account online:
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Link Your Checking Account with Your Bank
If the online store only accepts one type of payment, they will most likely offer a direct checkout option through your bank’s website. Even if you have starter checks, this method will work as long as you have an account. It’s the simplest way to shop online—just shop as you usually would and follow the checkout process.
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Link Your Checking Account with PayPal
If the store only accepts PayPal, you can still shop using your checking account through PayPal. Instead of directly linking your checking account, you can connect your PayPal to your bank.
PayPal will then use your linked checking account to pay for your purchases, ensuring that there is no direct transfer of your checking account information. It’s a secure and anonymous way to send money using PayPal.
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Shop on Stores That Accept eCheck
Many online retailers accept eChecks as a payment option. You can shop at your favorite stores, add items to your cart, and proceed to checkout.
At the payment step, the store will ask for your routing number and checking account number. This is how they electronically transfer the eCheck payment from your account to theirs. Just make sure you have sufficient funds in your checking account.
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Paper Check by Mail
Some online stores allow you to make payments by sending a paper check through the mail. They use an electronic reader to quickly scan the check, extracting your account details. The payment is then deducted from your bank account.
Be patient as the check is sent to the intended recipient, who will either cash it or process it manually.
Alternatives to Shopping Online and Paying with eChecks
If you prefer not to use an eCheck or encounter a debit card declined error, there are alternative options available for completing your online purchase.
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Use Buy Now Pay Later
One option is to use “Buy Now Pay Later.” Many online stores offer this option, allowing you to buy your favorite products without worrying about paying for them immediately on a credit card or eCheck.
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Explore Payment Plan Options
Another option is to explore payment plan options. Even for higher-priced items like electronics, you can often find no credit check, cell phone financing or other flexible payment plans offered by retailers. Look for progressive leasing stores that provide these payment options.
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Pay for Large Purchases With Other Checks
For larger purchases, you have a few choices. You can use cashier’s checks or certified checks, which are considered more secure forms of payment. If those aren’t available to you, consider using a money order.
However, be cautious of money order scams when making online transactions. Or, you can explore payment plan companies that offer options for spreading out the cost of your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cost to pay by eCheck?
I wanted to find out if there is a cost for using eChecks when shopping online. But what I found out is that the cost varies depending on the store. If you’re unsure about any fees, you can always contact customer service for the specific store and ask them directly.
Is It Safe to pay by eCheck?
Using eChecks for online shopping is safer than using paper checks because they transfer the money electronically to the seller. Paper checks require more steps and take longer. So, I believe eChecks are reliable, easy, and safe.
How long does it take for an eCheck to go through when making a purchase online?
When making a purchase online, it usually takes 1-2 business days for an eCheck payment to be processed and completed. Once you’ve submitted your payment information, the online store typically processes it within a day, so you can start browsing for products right away.
Do all banks accept eChecks?
Not all banks accept eChecks, so it’s important to check with my bank beforehand. If your bank doesn’t accept eChecks, then you may need to find an alternative payment method like applying for a PayPal account or using the website’s direct payment option.
Is there a minimum order amount when using an eCheck?
There is usually no minimum order amount required when using an eCheck for payment. But in cases where you’re uncertain, you can contact customer support for the store you want to shop at and inquire about any minimum requirements.
Can eChecks bounce?
eChecks can bounce, similar to paper checks. This can happen if the information provided is incorrect or illegal. There may be fees associated with bounced eChecks, and insufficient balance can also lead to bounce issues.
What happens if my eCheck gets declined while making a purchase?
If an eCheck gets declined during a purchase, it could be due to low funds in your bank account or an error on their end. Make sure you know your bank’s direct deposit times, so you know if your money has been deposited. In such cases, one can reach out to customer support for the store and seek assistance in fixing the bank information or exploring alternative payment options.
Do all online shopping stores accept eChecks?
Not all online stores accept eChecks as a form of payment. Smaller stores, in particular, may not offer this option due to the associated risks compared to credit or debit cards. Larger retailers often choose not to accept eChecks to better protect their customers from potential fraud.
Conclusion
While it is true that eChecks are better payment options for online shopping, considering they do not require your personal information. It is quite important to be aware of costs, safety measures, processing time, and bounce issues.
You also need to check with your bank, make inquiries about minimum order amounts and understand if they are accepted by your chosen online store.
Read also: Dangers of eCheck that Threatening Safety!
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