Need to cash a third-party check—also called a double-endorsed check—using your phone? While not all apps accept them, a few major mobile deposit services still do. This guide explains exactly which apps work, the requirements, approval times, and the safest alternatives if your check isn’t eligible.
If you’re looking for in-person options too, see our full guide: Where to Cash a Third-Party Check.
What Is a Third-Party Check?
A third-party check is a check that has been signed over from the original payee to someone else. Because these checks carry a higher risk of fraud, many banks and apps do not accept them.
- Original payee signs the back (“Pay to the order of… ”)
- New recipient endorses it under the first signature
- ID verification required to prevent fraudulent transfers
1. Ingo Money (Best Overall for Third-Party Checks)
Ingo Money is one of the only major mobile apps that accepts eligible third-party checks. If the check meets identity and security requirements, you can deposit it directly to a bank account, prepaid card, or PayPal.
- Fees: 2%–5% for instant deposit; free if you wait 10 days
- ID verification required
- High approval rate compared to PayPal or Cash App
- Deposit limits vary by check type
Ingo is the safest bet if you need mobile approval without going to a store.
2. PayPal Check Capture
PayPal uses Ingo’s network for check processing. That means certain third-party checks may be accepted—but approval rates are lower than Ingo’s direct app.
- Fees: 1%–5% for instant; free with 10-day deposit
- Requires linking a bank or debit card
- Some double-endorsed checks flagged automatically
Best for users who already use PayPal for payments and transfers.
3. Cash App (Not Reliable for Third-Party Checks)
Cash App does not officially support third-party checks. Some users report occasional approvals, but Cash App’s mobile check system is strict and typically rejects double endorsements.
- Approval rate for third-party checks: Low
- ID verification required
- Only available to fully verified accounts
Use Cash App only if Ingo and PayPal reject the check first.
4. Other Apps That Don’t Accept Third-Party Checks
- Chime
- Venmo
- NetSpend Mobile
- Green Dot
- Navy Federal Mobile Deposit
These services only accept checks written directly to the account holder—no double endorsements allowed.
Best Alternatives If Apps Reject Your Third-Party Check
- The bank the check is drawn on (highest approval)
- Check-cashing stores (fees 2%–5%)
- Walmart (some locations accept third-party checks)
- Endorsement correction (have the issuer re-write the check)
If the check is large or handwritten, mobile apps may flag it—making in-person cashing the fastest path.
How to Endorse a Third-Party Check Correctly
- Step 1: Original payee signs the back of the check.
- Step 2: They write: “Pay to the order of [Your Name]”.
- Step 3: You sign underneath their endorsement.
- Step 4: Bring valid ID if cashing in person.
Any missing endorsement step will cause an automatic rejection in mobile apps.
FAQ
Can you deposit a third-party check on Cash App?
Not reliably. Cash App typically rejects double-endorsed checks.
Which mobile app is best for third-party checks?
Ingo Money has the highest approval rate and most flexible deposit options.
Are there fees for cashing third-party checks?
Yes. Instant deposits usually cost 2%–5%. Free 10-day deposits are available with PayPal and Ingo.
Conclusion
Cashing a third-party check with mobile apps can be tricky, but Ingo Money and PayPal give you the best chance of instant approval. Cash App may work for some users, but results are inconsistent. If mobile deposit fails, banks and check-cashing stores offer reliable alternatives. For in-person options, see our complete guide: Where to Cash a Third-Party Check.