How Long Does It Take To Be Paid
Sep 19, 2023
Understanding Payment Timelines for Precious Metal Sales
If you have unwanted gold, silver, or coins and are considering mailing them in for appraisal and sale, one of the most common questions is: How long does it take to be paid? Fortunately, the process is usually straightforward and faster than many expect. Here we’ll walk through the typical 24–72 hour processing window, the steps leading up to payout, and the role of online tracking systems that eliminate uncertainty.
What Happens After You Send Your Metals?
Once you’ve sorted and packed your gold, silver jewelry, sterling flatware, coins, or dental gold, the selling journey includes several predictable steps:
Shipping and Chain of Custody: You send items via an insured mailer or shipping method. Registered or insured options through USPS, UPS, or FedEx provide tracking and liability coverage. (USPS Registered Mail guide).
Check-In: When your package arrives at the buyer’s facility, staff log the contents, often with video or photo documentation to document condition and weight.
Testing: Items are examined for karat purity (10K, 14K, 18K, 22K, 24K gold), silver content (e.g., 925, sterling), or coin-specific composition. Buyers may use testing methods like magnets, acid tests, or electronic meters.
Offer and Record: A clear value is placed on your metals. Melt value is compared with market prices, and non-metal items are factored out. You usually receive an itemized offer or settlement report.
Payout: Once you accept, payment processing begins.
How Long Does Payment Take?
Most reputable services process payouts within 24–72 hours after your acceptance. This means if you agree to a quote on Monday, you can typically expect payment no later than Thursday. The exact timing depends on your chosen payment method:
Payment Method | Processing Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
PayPal | Often same day to 24 hours | Funds can be received quickly but withdrawal limits/fees may apply. |
Venmo | Same day to 48 hours | Convenient for mobile banking but transfers to bank may take extra time. |
Zelle | Within minutes at many banks | No fee, but must be enrolled with your bank. |
Cash App | Instant for app balance | Transfers to bank may take 1–2 days or carry a small fee for instant deposit. |
ACH Transfer | 1–3 business days | Secure direct deposit to checking/savings account. |
Paper Check | 3–7 business days | Includes mailing time; safest for those without digital banking. |
The Value of an Online Payout Tracker
To prevent guesswork, many services now provide an online status tracker. With a package ID or account login, you can see:
Date shipped and tracking number
Package check-in and recording
Testing/valuation stage
Offer status (pending, accepted, declined)
Payment issued with transaction ID or check number
This transparency ensures you are not left waiting without information. For example, International Gold & Silver provides both insured mailer kits and a clear online portal to follow shipment, testing, and payment stages.
Checklist: Ensuring a Smooth and Fast Payment
Photograph all items before shipping.
Weigh gold, silver, and coins in grams with a pocket scale for reference.
Keep items sorted by karat or type (10K, 14K, sterling, coin silver).
Remove obvious non-metal parts if safe and practical.
Use insured, trackable shipping (USPS Registered Mail is one of the most secure).
Save shipment receipts and tracking numbers.
Accept or decline offers promptly to avoid delays.
Choose your payment method ahead of time and provide correct account details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dental gold take longer to process?
Dental gold often contains porcelain or steel attachments, which must be separated before weighing. This may add a short delay, but once tested, payouts are handled in the same 24–72 hour timeframe.
How do I confirm that payment has been issued?
Once payment is released, you’ll see this in your online tracker or via a confirmation email. Digital payments often include transaction IDs; checks include tracking for the mailed envelope.
Can I speed up payment?
Yes—by providing digital wallet options (Zelle, PayPal, Venmo, Cash App), payment is often same day once you approve an offer.
What if the payment is delayed?
If more than 72 business hours pass after your acceptance, check your payout tracker and contact customer service. Delays are usually traced to incorrect account details or holiday bank closures.
Final Thoughts
Selling unwanted gold, silver, coins, or dental gold is more straightforward than many believe. From secured shipping to professional testing, the time between accepting an offer and receiving your money is typically just 1–3 days. With insured mailing, transparent tracking, and fast payment options, you can eliminate uncertainty and focus on turning unused precious metals into usable funds quickly and safely.