How PayPal works

Join the millions of people keeping track of what they buy, sell and spend with PayPal.

How PayPal works
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PayPal could simplify your life

We believe it should be simple to get, spend and send your money. That’s why our services are designed to fit into your everyday life. Whether you’re shopping, splitting expenses or getting paid for sales, we’re here to help make it as easy as possible.

There are multiple ways to use PayPal

Shop and buy online or in person

Choose PayPal at checkout and you can skip entering your card info each time you make a purchase. PayPal Buyer Protection1 helps you shop with confidence on eligible purchases. You can also use PayPal to pay in person with QR codes.

See how to shop with PayPal
See how to shop with PayPal
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Send money securely

Across the table or around the globe, we make it simple to transfer money to anyone who uses PayPal2. Our advanced search makes it easy to find and know who you’re sending money to. If they don’t have an account with PayPal, it’s easy to open one.

See how to send money

Receive and collect money

It’s easy to send money to friends and family, and anyone who’s using PayPal. The funds can go quickly into your account. Share your unique PayPal.Me link or QR code to make it happen2.

See how to receive money

Join over 300 million PayPal users

Users and merchants in our growing network count on us to help them securely spend, send and get their money.

Easily and securely spend, send and manage your money with just one account.

Sign up

1 Buyer Protection is available on eligible purchases only. Learn more.

2 An account with PayPal is required to send and receive money online, using the PayPal app or PayPal.me.

3 Fees for cross-border transactions may apply. PayPal’s exchanges rates may be applied to currency conversions. For further information see User Agreement.