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What Is PayPal and How Does It Work? Complete 2025 Guide for Beginners

Güncelleme tarihi: 26 Tem

A person using a smartphone and laptop to access PayPal, representing global money transfers and online payments.
Send and receive money worldwide with PayPal — fast, secure, and trusted by millions

Introduction

PayPal is one of the most trusted and widely used online payment systems in the world. Whether you're buying, selling, freelancing, or managing a global e-commerce business, having a PayPal account is essential for fast and secure transactions.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

What PayPal is

What it’s used for

How to open a PayPal account

How to use it step by step

How to send and receive money

How to withdraw funds to your bank account

PayPal fees, limits, and business tips


What Is PayPal?

PayPal is an online financial platform that allows individuals and businesses to:

Send and receive money securely

Pay for products and services online

Accept customer payments through websites and apps

Link bank accounts, credit cards, or debit cards for easy transactions

Founded in 1998, PayPal is now available in 200+ countries and supports 25+ currencies.


What Is PayPal Used For?

Common Use Cases:

Online Shopping: Buy from websites like eBay, Etsy, AliExpress, and more

Freelance Payments: Get paid for services on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork

eCommerce: Accept payments on your own store via PayPal Checkout

International Transfers: Send or receive money across borders

Digital Subscriptions: Manage recurring billing and memberships


How to Create a PayPal Account (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to https://www.paypal.comClick on “Sign Up”

Step 2: Choose Your Account Type

Personal Account – for everyday shopping and sending money

Business Account – for selling products, invoicing, and receiving payments

Step 3: Fill in Your Details

Full name (as it appears on your ID)

Valid email address

Phone number

Country and home address

Create a strong password

Step 4: Link Your Payment Methods

You can add:

A debit/credit card

A bank account (for withdrawals)

Both if needed

Step 5: Verify Your Email and Identity

Click the link in the verification email

Complete identity verification if prompted (ID + selfie)

Once verified, you can start using your PayPal account immediately.


How to Use PayPal

Send Money

Log in to your PayPal account

Click on “Send”

Enter the recipient’s email or phone number

Enter the amount and choose the currency

Click “Send Payment Now”

Receive Money

You can receive money from:

Clients and employers

Online marketplaces (eBay, etc.)

Other PayPal usersJust give them your PayPal email address — that’s all they need.


How to Withdraw Money from PayPal

Go to “Wallet”

Click “Transfer Money”

Choose “Withdraw to your bank account”

Select the bank and amount

Confirm

Withdrawals typically take 1–3 business days.


Transaction Type

Fee

Sending to friends

Free (within same country)

Receiving payment (goods/services)

~2.9% + fixed fee

Currency conversion

3–4% above market rate

Bank withdrawals

Usually free or low cost

Can You Use PayPal for Business?

Absolutely. With a PayPal Business Account, you get access to:

PayPal Checkout for websites

Invoicing and billing tools

Payment links and QR codes

Customer support and transaction history

API integrations with Shopify, WooCommerce, etc.


Is PayPal Safe?

Yes. PayPal uses:

Data encryption

Two-factor authentication (2FA)

Fraud monitoring

Buyer and seller protection programs


Always make sure to:

  • Use strong passwords

  • Don’t share your PayPal login

  • Enable alerts and security settings


Final Tips for Using PayPal

✅ Make sure your name and ID match✅ Use a verified email and card✅ Avoid using VPNs when logging in✅ Keep your account active to avoid limitations✅ Read PayPal’s user agreement for restricted activities


Final Thoughts

PayPal remains a powerful tool for online payments, whether you’re a freelancer, digital entrepreneur, or casual shopper. By following this guide, you can confidently create, verify, and use your PayPal account in 2025 without problems.


Important Note: Rules and fees may vary depending on your country. Always check the latest local regulations before using PayPal.

 
 
 

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