cashinperson

Cash in person, also described as in-person cash payment, is a payment settlement in which the buyer pays cash directly to the seller at a mutually agreed physical location and time. It is commonly used in local transactions, online marketplaces with local pickup, classified ads, and peer-to-peer exchanges where buyers and sellers prefer tangible currency over digital transfers.

In contrast to cash on delivery, where payment is made upon receipt of shipped goods, cash in person emphasizes a direct exchange at a prearranged meeting rather than during shipping. It often requires no third-party payment processor and can avoid processing fees, but it also eliminates digital recourse such as chargebacks and can expose participants to risk.

Advantages include immediacy, privacy, and the absence of payment processing fees. It can be practical for small trades and in areas with limited access to electronic payments. However, risks include counterfeit currency, disputes over item condition, and potential personal safety concerns when meeting strangers, as well as no formal dispute resolution or refunds.

Best practices to mitigate risk include arranging meetings in public, well-lit locations, preferably with a companion, verifying currency authenticity, counting money before exchange, and obtaining a simple written receipt or note describing the item and terms. Participants should inspect items before handing over cash and consider alternative payment arrangements for high-value purchases.

Legal and regulatory considerations vary by jurisdiction; some regions require reporting large cash transactions, and some platforms restrict in-person cash settlements for compliance or safety reasons. See also cash on delivery and peer-to-peer marketplaces.