Learn how long GrubHub takes to verify your debit card, what affects processing time, and tips to speed up verification for faster food delivery access.
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Getting your debit card set up with Grubhub takes anywhere from a few minutes to three business days, depending on your bank. Let's break down exactly what to expect and how to speed things up.
The Basic Timeline
Your bank's payment processing system determines how quickly your card gets verified:
Banks supporting real-time payments: Almost instant verification
Standard banks: 1-2 business days
New account setup or bank information changes: 3 business days (72-hour mandatory security period)
Setting Up Your Card
The setup process is straightforward:
Open your Grubhub Driver app and head to the personal information section
Select bank information
Enter your bank details (account name, number, routing number)
Submit for verification
The key is accuracy - a single mistyped number means starting over. Save time by having your banking details ready before you begin.
What Happens During Verification
Grubhub partners with PayPal's Hyperwallet and Visa Direct to process your card verification. Here's what's happening behind the scenes:
Your bank details go through two quick checks:
A security scan to confirm your account exists and is active
A verification that your bank can receive payments from Grubhub
Most delays happen when your bank doesn't support instant payments. In these cases, your verification follows the standard banking processing time of 1-2 business days.
After Verification: Getting Paid
Once your card is verified, you've got two ways to receive your earnings:
Standard deposits arrive within 2-3 business days
Instant Pay lets you transfer money right away (perfect for when you need quick access to your earnings)
A heads up about Instant Pay: If you update any of your banking details, you'll need to wait 72 hours before using this feature again. This security measure protects your earnings, even though it might feel inconvenient.
When Things Don't Go As Planned
Your verification might hit a snag for several reasons:
Incorrect account or routing numbers
Bank account restrictions
Technical hiccups in the Grubhub app
The fastest fix? Double-check your banking details first. If everything looks correct and you're still stuck, Grubhub's Driver Care team is ready to help through the Driver App.
Tips for a Smooth Verification Process
Smart preparation cuts down your verification time. Here's what works best:
Before starting, grab these essentials:
Your official bank statement or banking app
Your account and routing numbers
A valid ID (some banks require this for verification)
Banks that typically process fastest include Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo. Local credit unions or smaller banks might take the full 1-2 business days.
Common Questions About Card Verification
Can I deliver while waiting for Grubhub card verification?
Yes! You can accept and deliver orders during the verification process. Just note that your earnings will land in your account once verification is complete.
What if my bank rejects the verification?
This usually means one of two things:
Your account doesn't accept external deposits
The account information doesn't match your bank's records
Just contact your bank to confirm they allow Grubhub deposits, then update your information in the Driver App.
Keeping Your Card Information Secure
Grubhub uses encryption to protect your banking details. This means your sensitive information gets converted into a code that only your bank can understand.
Each time you update your card information, the 72-hour security hold kicks in. While this might seem like a hassle, it's actually working to protect your earnings from unauthorized changes.
Managing Your Card Details
Keeping your payment information current prevents any hiccups in getting paid. Head to the Driver App whenever you need to:
Update an expired card
Switch bank accounts
Change your payment method
Your changes take effect after the 72-hour security period, so plan updates around your payment needs.
Using Your Verified Card
A verified card opens up all payment features on Grubhub:
Instant Pay for immediate access to earnings
Direct deposits for regular payments
Order payment capabilities when picking up customer orders
The app shows your available balance and transfer options right on the earnings screen. Watch for the green checkmark - it means your transfer is ready to process.
Final Tips for Grubhub Drivers
Success on Grubhub starts with solid payment setup. Keep these points in mind:
Screenshot your verification confirmation for your records
Set up a backup payment method if possible
Mark your calendar when you make account changes to track the 72-hour window
Save Driver Care contact info for quick support access
Remember, most payment issues clear up with a quick check of your account details. When in doubt, the Driver Care team is always there to help sort things out.
Support Options
Direct help is available through:
The Driver App support section
Driver Care phone support
Email support for non-urgent questions
The Driver App remains your fastest route to answers - it connects you directly to team members who handle payment verification questions.
Senior Marketing Consultant
Michael Leander is an experienced digital marketer and an online solopreneur.
