How to pay with PayPal

To pay with PayPal, log in to your account on the PayPal website or mobile app, then either send money to a person or choose PayPal at an online checkout.

You do not need funds in your PayPal balance to pay. PayPal lets you pay directly from a linked bank account, credit card or debit card, and you can also pay someone through their PayPal.Me link.

1. Log in: Open the PayPal app or website and go to Send and Request.
2. Enter the recipient: Type the person's name, username, email address or phone number, then select Next.
3. Add the amount: Enter how much you want to send and choose the currency.
4. Choose the payment type: Where the option is offered, mark the payment as Goods and Services or Friends and Family.
5. Select a payment method: Pick a linked bank account, credit card, debit card or your PayPal balance.
6. Review and send: Check the details and select Send Payment Now.

Paying a merchant online follows a shorter route, and PayPal's overview of online purchases starts with signing up and linking a payment method such as a bank account, credit card or debit card.

1. Select PayPal: Click the PayPal button on the merchant's checkout page.
2. Sign in: Enter your PayPal email and password in the window that opens.
3. Confirm: Choose your funding source in the pop-up and complete the purchase.