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Ever wondered if you can pay with cash on DoorDash? You’re not alone! A lot of people prefer cash for convenience or budgeting reasons. While most orders are paid digitally, DoorDash does have some cash payment options—but they’re pretty limited. Here’s what you need to know before placing your next order.
1. Can You Pay with Cash on DoorDash?
Yes, but with some restrictions. DoorDash used to offer Cash on Delivery (COD) in certain areas, letting customers pay their drivers in cash. But over time, they’ve mostly phased it out. Some restaurants might still accept cash, but it really depends on where you are. The easiest way to check? Start an order and see if cash shows up as a payment option at checkout!
2. Why Did DoorDash Reduce Cash Payments?
DoorDash moved away from cash payments to keep things running smoothly. Handling cash can be a hassle—it slows down deliveries, creates security issues, and means drivers have to wait to get paid. Plus, most Dashers prefer quick, contactless payments. These days, restaurants and delivery apps rely more on digital payments for better tracking and efficiency. If you still want to use cash, a prepaid debit card or a DoorDash gift card can be a great workaround.
3. How Can You Check If Cash Is Accepted in Your Area?
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The easiest way to check if DoorDash takes cash in your area is to open the app and start an order. Add your items to the cart, head to checkout, and see if “Cash on Delivery” pops up as a payment option. If it’s there, you’re good to go! If not, you’ll have to use a credit/debit card, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay instead. Since policies can change depending on where you are, it doesn’t hurt to check every now and then.
4. What Happens If a Dasher Can’t Make Change?
If you’re paying with cash, try to have the exact amount ready. Most Dashers don’t carry extra cash for change since it’s safer and keeps things running smoothly. If you don’t have exact change, you might need to tip extra or round up to the nearest bill. That’s one of the reasons DoorDash and its drivers prefer digital payments. Not sure what to do? Shoot your Dasher a message through the app to confirm before they arrive.
5. Are There Alternatives to Paying with Cash?
Yes! If you don’t have a bank card but still want to use DoorDash, you’ve got options. A prepaid Visa card or a DoorDash gift card works just like a regular debit card and can be picked up at most convenience stores. You can also use PayPal, which lets you add cash at select retail locations. Plus, some restaurants partnered with DoorDash might take cash if you order directly through them—so it’s worth checking with your favorite local spot!
Is Cash Still a Viable Payment Option?
While paying with cash on DoorDash isn’t as common as it once was, it may still be available in select areas. The best approach is to check within the app or explore alternative payment methods. If cash payments are unavailable, prepaid cards and gift cards offer flexibility without a traditional bank account. As food delivery keeps evolving, digital payments will probably stay the go-to choice, but who knows? DoorDash could roll out new payment options down the line, so it’s always worth keeping an eye out!
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
Vanessa Bermudez is a content writer with over eight years of experience crafting compelling content across a diverse range of niches. Throughout her career, she has tackled an array of subjects, from technology and finance to entertainment and lifestyle. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids. She’s also a proud fur mom to four gentle giant dogs.