Skrill Overview
Skrill is a popular e-wallet for British gamblers. It allows quick, secure, and effortless transactions to merchants, and is widely accepted by online casinos, often making it a first choice for gambling-related payments.
The service was originally launched in 2001 in the United Kingdom as Moneybookers, a payment solution specifically for gamblers. By 2007, it had become one of the top three e-payment providers in Europe.
In 2015, Skrill was acquired by Paysafe Group, a company regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland, along with former competitor Neteller.
Fun Fact
Skrill sponsored the PokerStars-owned European Poker Tour for two seasons and is heavily involved in sports, sponsoring English football’s National League, as well as AC Milan.
Skrill Features
Skrill comes with the usual perks of an electronic wallet, namely security, speed, and convenience, but here are a couple of other advantages you’ll get by registering an account:
Prepaid Mastercard
Skrill allows you to order a physical card, meaning you’ll be able to withdraw cash from local ATMs, right out of your Skrill balance.
Cryptocurrencies transactions
You can buy and sell various cryptocurrencies from your Skrill app. Although I generally advise against this for the reasons listed in The Ascent, it’s still a nice feature to have if you’re just getting into crypto.
Mobile app
The Skrill app is compatible with iOS and Android, allows biometric log-ins for enhanced security, and is a convenient way to make payments and receive funds on the go.
Loyalty program
Making transactions with Skrill earns you loyalty points, which you can redeem for various rewards, including cash.
How to Use Skrill
To open an account, you’ll need to register on the official Skrill website by providing the following information:
- Name and country.
- E-mail address and the password for your new account.
If you have any issues during this step, you might find your solution on the Getting Started page of Skrill’s Help Center.
Skrill User Levels
There are three levels to a Skrill account:
- Skriller;
- True Skriller;
- VIP Skriller.
Skriller is the default user level, assigned to everyone who creates an account. This level is free, and requires no verification, but also has a few restrictions that might impact your gameplay.
To become a True Skriller, you’ll need to download the app, make a successful deposit via credit/debit card or bank account, and verify your identity by submitting some legal documents. You will, then, enjoy raised limits and lower transaction fees.
Keep in mind
You can only verify your identity via the Skrill app, or on a desktop equipped with a webcam.
You’ll need to take pictures of your government-issued ID, a selfie of you holding this ID, and proof of address, like a utility bill or bank statement.
Lastly, a VIP Skriller has access to extra Loyalty features and rewards, including a free-of-charge physical card they can use to withdraw their Skrill balance from ATMs.
For any issues related to your Skrill account, you can get in touch with customer service 24/7, via chat, e-mail, or phone. You’ll find detailed information on how to reach out on the official contact page.
As always, I recommend you (at least) scan the Terms and Conditions page before registering an account, but I am not your mom.
Deposits & Withdrawals & Fees
These transactions are completely free when using Skrill:
- Paying merchants from your Skrill balance.
- Receiving money to your Skrill account (including withdrawals from online casinos).
- Sending money to an international bank account with Skrill Money Transfer.
British users can expect to pay a flat 1.25% fee when depositing funds with Diners, JCB, Mastercard, and Visa cards and a 4.66 GBP fee to withdraw funds from Skrill to their bank account. The full list of fees is available on the official Skrill website.
Both deposits and withdrawals to and from online casinos work how you’d expect with any electronic wallet. Choosing Skrill in your account’s Cashier section lets you log into your Skrill account and complete any transaction without providing your payment details.
Most online casinos accept Skrill for deposits and withdrawals, and the great news is that you generally won’t pay any fees for depositing through this e-wallet.