How PayPal works

Fast, secure, flexible. More rewarding for you.

Speed through checkout. Get unlimited cash back. Send money across the table or across the globe. Manage your payments with one safe account.

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A wooden coffee table with a tile in the front illustrating how PayPal works at checkout.

How to sign up for PayPal

01

Create your account

We’ll walk you through sign up. Simply enter your email, phone, and personal info.

Sign Up

02

Load your digital wallet

Add your debit or credit cards. Or link your bank account. They'll be stored in one safe place and ready to use.

Add a Payment Method

03

Manage it all in one place

The app is your hub. Control your payments, send money online, earn cash back, and more.

Get the App

Get the most out of PayPal

Enjoy unlimited cash back

Discover offers from brands you love in the app. Plus, exclusive PayPal reward offers.1 You can even combine them for more cash back. There's no limit to how much you can earn.

Shop and Get Rewarded

Check out with more choices

Skip entering your info every time you pay. Split a purchase between 2 of your cards or banks.* Or opt for one of our Pay Later options.

Paying With PayPalBuy Now, Pay Later
*Certain transaction types do not have split payment capabilities.

Send and receive money safely

  • Join the millions who trust PayPal to send money across the globe.2

  • Send money quickly to just about anyone. Just enter their name, PayPal handle, email, or phone.

  • Shop with the money you receive. Or pay your bills, donate, and transfer.

Send and Receive Money

Privacy and security for you

Every transaction is completely encrypted, keeping your identity and financial info safe. Plus, we've got your back on eligible purchases with PayPal Purchase Protection.3

Sign UpMore About PayPal Security

Do it all in the app

Manage your payments and finances on-the-go. Get cash back offers. Track your packages. Roll your cash into a PayPal Savings account and more.*

Download the app on your phone or sign up for free online.


A QR code you can scan with the camera on your phone to download the PayPal app.
About the App
More About the PayPal App
*A PayPal Balance account is required to use PayPal Savings.

How does PayPal work FAQs

Trust the way you pay

Easily and securely spend, send, and manage your transactions—all in one place. Download the app on your phone or sign up for free online.

Scan the code or enter your number to get the app.

A QR code you can scan with the camera on your phone to download the PayPal app
By clicking Send Link you agree to receive a text message with a link to the PayPal app. Message and data rates may apply.
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1
Offers are subject to availability. Check offer for details. PayPal Rewards Terms and exclusions apply. Offers change often so refer to merchant site for the most accurate information. We may earn a commission when you make a purchase.
2
An account with PayPal is required to send and receive money. A PayPal Balance account is required to hold and use a balance.
3
PayPal Purchase Protection is available on eligible transactions. Terms and limitations apply.
4
Subject to credit approval. You must be at least 18 years old and reside in the US or its territories to apply. An approved PayPal Cashback Mastercard application will result in a hard credit inquiry, which may impact your credit score. See Terms and Rates for new accounts.
5
As of June 07, 2023, the annual percentage yield (APY) for PayPal Savings is 4.30%. This is a variable rate and can change at any time, including after the account is opened. National average source: FDIC National Rates and Rate Caps as of February 20, 2024.