How to Use PayPal

Send money, receive payments, and make purchases using a PayPal account.

Steps

  1. 1

    Go to paypal.com

    or download the PayPal app. Click "Sign Up" and choose a personal or business account.

  2. 2

    Enter your details

    including your name, email address, and a password. Confirm your email by clicking the link PayPal sends.

  3. 3

    Link a payment method

    such as a bank account, debit card, or credit card. This lets you send money and pay for items.

  4. 4

    Send money

    by clicking "Send and Request." Enter the recipient's email or phone number, the amount, and click "Send."

  5. 5

    Request money

    by clicking "Request" and entering the amount. PayPal notifies the person by email or app notification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PayPal free?Show
Opening an account is free. Sending money to friends from a bank account is free. Business payments have a small fee.
How do I get my money out of PayPal?Show
Transfer your balance to your linked bank account. Standard transfers take one business day and are free.
Can I use PayPal without a bank account?Show
Yes. You can add money to your PayPal balance at many stores. You can also link a credit card instead.
What if someone sends me money by mistake?Show
Contact PayPal support or the sender. You can return the money by sending it back through the platform.

Written by the HowToDoStuff.online editorial team. Last updated .