For many small business owners, waiting two business days for a payout can feel like a lifetime – especially when cash flow is tight and expenses don’t wait. That’s why Yoco created Instant Payouts, a game-changing feature that gives you access to your money within minutes of making a sale.

Whether you're restocking, paying staff or just need immediate access to your earnings, Instant Payouts puts financial control back in your hands.

Below, we unpack what Instant Payouts is, how it works, when you should use it and how to get started.

What is Yoco Instant Payout?

Instant Payout is a feature that allows Yoco merchants to transfer their available funds into their bank account almost immediately after a sale is made.

Instead of waiting the typical 1-2 business days for an EFT to clear, you can opt to cash out your daily earnings instantly via the Yoco App.

It's designed for those “I need the money now” moments that small business owners know all too well – like rent due today, a supplier deadline or an emergency purchase.

When should you use Instant Payouts?

It’s ideal for moments when:

• you need to pay your staff on the same day

• you need to restock inventory quickly to meet customer demand

• you’re dealing with unexpected expenses that can’t wait for a standard payout cycle

• you simply prefer to have more control over your cash flow.

Whether you’re running a food truck, hair salon, boutique or consulting business, access to your earnings on your own schedule can be a lifesaver.

How does Instant Payout work?

You simply open your Yoco App, navigate to the payout section and request an Instant Payout. The funds are transferred immediately to your linked bank account (as long as it’s one of our supported banks, which includes most major South African banks).

You must have at least R50 in available funds and no active Yoco Capital plan to use Instant Payouts. Only 1 Instant Payout can be requested per day and it’s capped at R10 000 per day.

Is it secure?

Yes. Yoco’s Instant Payout system works through secure banking channels and only transfers money to your verified business bank account.

Like all Yoco services, it’s built with security and transparency in mind, so you can focus on running your business with peace of mind.

How does it fit with instant EFT?

Instant EFT is another tool Yoco offers to help businesses get paid quickly, but it's customer-facing.

While Instant EFT allows your customers to make easier, faster payments to you via EFT during checkout, Instant Payouts is your tool for accessing those funds instantly once they’ve landed in your Yoco balance.

When used together, Instant EFT and Instant Payouts help create a frictionless cycle; your customer pays you in a few clicks and you get the money in your bank account in minutes. It’s speed and convenience on both sides of the sale.

What’s the difference between standard and Instant Payouts?

Here’s how Instant Payouts differ from standard payouts:

When should you stick with standard payouts?

If your business isn’t pressed for cash and you’d prefer to avoid any additional fees, standard payouts are still available at no cost. Think of Instant Payouts as an optional tool that’s there when you need it most.

How do you get started?

To use Instant Payouts, simply:

1. Update your Yoco App to its latest version.

2. Make sure your Yoco profile is fully verified.

3. Navigate to the Payouts section in the app.

4. Tap Instant Payout and follow the prompts.

If you need help verifying your profile or understanding your balance, check out our Help Centre.

Stay in control of your cash flow

Cash flow is the heartbeat of every small business. With Instant Payouts, Yoco empowers you to keep that heartbeat steady even when things get unpredictable.

It’s fast, secure, optional and puts your earnings right where you need them.

Want to learn more or see if it’s right for you? Explore more about Instant Payouts here.