Checks are processed once a month approximately the 10th of the month.
In your case, you are in the USA and your first cash out must be by check as this is
a fraud prevention measure. After your first check cash out, you may then choose
another option such as paypal.
In regards to how long it takes to receive the check, that is dependent upon where
you are in the USA.
I can tell you for me, I am in the state of TN, it takes about 3 or 4 days to receive
the check once it is processed. So actually, it takes no longer than most any other
first class mail.