Tips & Tricks: Sending and receiving money with PayPal

Need to split rent or settle dinner with friends? Peer-to-peer payments offer a way to get it done. And using PayPal can be a quick, secure, and private way to transfer money to friends and family — just about anytime, anywhere. 1

Tip 1 — Add payment methods

PayPal makes it easy for people to pay with their preferred payment methods, including their PayPal balance, linked bank accounts, or credit and debit cards.

To get started, individuals can simply add their chosen payment methods to their PayPal account, providing flexibility and convenience in how they fund their transactions. Learn how to add a payment method.

Tip 2 – Send money with the PayPal app or website

Away from a computer or need to transfer money in a cinch? People can receive or send money on the go in minutes with the PayPal app or PayPal website.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Open the app or go to the website in a browser and log in to your account.
  2. Choose “Payments” and then “Pay.” Or, select the “Send” button.
  3. Enter the recipient’s name, PayPal username, email, or mobile number. Users can also scan the recipient’s QR code.
  4. Choose “Next.” Enter the amount, choose the currency, and add a note if you wish. Choose the preferred funding method, such as a bank account, debit card, etc. Select “Next.”
  5. Select “Friends and Family” or “Goods and Services.” Choose “Next.”
  6. Review the details and select “Send.”

Whether running errands, sitting at home, or — like Alana, the PayPal payments pro in this Tips & Tricks — had a debit card eaten by an ATM, using PayPal can get money to and from an account in just a few simple steps.

Tip 3 – Get paid using QR codes

Short on time? Using a personal QR code may remove the friction of entering payment information manually. Simply scan and pay — or get paid.

This contactless option is another way people can quickly and accurately send or request money through PayPal. Users can even download their QR code so they are able to share their account even if they don’t have an internet connection.

Open the PayPal app, tap on the QR code button on the top-right side of the home screen, and tap on "your code" to have it scanned and have money sent to you. Learn more about how to pay with a QR code.

Tip 4 – Make requests fun

When using the PayPal app, add a personal touch to sending and receiving money requests by customizing them with fun animations, emojis, or stickers.

It allows people to convey the purpose behind a request, making the experience more engaging and friendly for both senders and recipients.

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