safest way to receive payment for a car

The safest play is to meet the buyer at their bank and confirm money in your account before handing over keys or rego papers.

Best options are an instant Osko/PayID transfer you can see cleared in your balance, or a bank cheque issued in‑branch that you deposit together and wait to clear.

Never rely on screenshots, “pending” notices, or promises—no clearance, no car.

Avoid PayPal, crypto, or wire transfers you can’t instantly verify; if cash is the only path, count it at a bank and deposit on the spot.

Write a proper receipt, sight and record the buyer’s ID, and only release the vehicle once funds have cleared and you’ve lodged the notice of disposal with your state authority.