How to send money in PayPal without a fee?

Ditch the Fees: Sending Money on PayPal for Free

PayPal is a convenient way to send money, but those pesky fees can add up. Fortunately, there’s a simple trick to avoid them when sending money to friends and family within the same country (and sometimes internationally, depending on currency and location). The key is using the “Sending to a friend or family” option.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your PayPal transfer remains fee-free:

1. Log in: Access your PayPal account through the website or mobile app.

2. Navigate to “Send Money”: This is usually prominently displayed on the main dashboard or readily accessible through the quick links. Don’t get sidetracked by other options like “Pay for Goods or Services.”

3. Enter the recipient’s information: Input the email address, mobile number, or PayPal username associated with the person you’re sending money to.

4. Specify the amount: Enter the desired amount you wish to send.

5. Crucial Step: Choose “Sending to a friend or family”: Before you finalize the transaction, PayPal will ask you to specify the reason for the payment. This is where you avoid the fees. Select the option that indicates you’re sending money to a friend or family member. This is the most important step to avoid charges.

6. Choose your funding source: Select how you’d like to fund the transaction. Using your PayPal balance or a linked bank account will keep the transfer free. However, using a credit card or debit card as a funding source might incur fees from your card issuer, even if PayPal itself doesn’t charge. Be mindful of this distinction.

7. Review and confirm: Double-check all the details, including the recipient, amount, and the chosen payment type (“Sending to a friend or family”). Then, click “Send.”

Important Considerations:

• Business Transactions: This method is specifically designed for personal transactions between friends and family. Using it for business purposes, such as paying for goods or services, is against PayPal’s terms of service and could lead to account limitations. Always select “Pay for Goods or Services” for business-related payments.
• Purchase Protection: Remember, when you send money using the “friends and family” option, you forfeit PayPal’s Purchase Protection. This means you won’t be eligible for a refund if the recipient doesn’t deliver as promised (e.g., selling you an item they never send). Reserve this option for trusted individuals and genuine gifts or personal transfers.
• International Transfers: While sending money to friends and family is typically free within the same country, international transfers might still incur currency conversion fees. Check PayPal’s fee schedule for specific details on international transfers.

By following these simple steps and understanding the distinctions between payment types, you can easily send money on PayPal without incurring unnecessary fees. Keep these tips in mind to ensure smooth and cost-effective transactions.