PayPal allows users to add money to their balances in many different ways. While linking and using a bank account is the most commonly used method, it's not the only option.
In fact, PayPal itself says:
You don't need a bank account to use PayPal.
So whether you're looking to add money to your balance or send money, you definitely don't need a bank account for the process.
Let's see how you can add money to your PayPal without using a bank account.
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Can I Put Money in PayPal Without a Bank Account?
Yes, you can put money in your PayPal account without a bank account. There are a couple of methods available which have been mentioned below.
Adding Money to PayPal Without a Bank Account
If you're looking for a way to add money to PayPal without a bank account, you can use any of the following options:
1. Ask a Friend/Relative to Send You Money
PayPal is a popular payment service and there's surely someone in your entourage using the service. You can ask a friend or relative to send you money through PayPal and you repay them through physical cash or any other method they accept. It is as easy as that.
This is the most convenient way to add money to your PayPal without a bank account for free and typically requires a trustworthy friend or relative.
2. Use the Add Cash Feature at Stores
PayPal partners with many retail stores to allow users to add cash at any participating retailer (including Walmart, CVS, 7-Eleven, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, and many others). Of course, this innovative feature requires you to have only your PayPal debit card and does not require a bank account.
To add cash to your PayPal without a bank account at participating stores:
- Open the PayPal app and go to your Wallet.
- Tap "Add Cash" and choose "Add cash at store".
- Select your preferred store and tap "Generate Barcode".
- Show the barcode to the cashier along with the amount you want to add.
- The cashier will scan the barcode and complete the transaction.
- The funds will be added to your PayPal balance within minutes.
This feature allows you to add anything between $20 and $500. Before heading to a store to use this method, you should keep in mind that you'll be charged a fee for this service.
3. Use a Debit Card with a Balance
If you have a debit card with a balance, you can link it to your PayPal account and use it to add funds. However, keep in mind that not all debit cards are compatible with this method, and there's typically a fee charged for this instant service.
To link your debit card to PayPal:
- Log in to your PayPal account on a web browser.
- Go to "Wallet" and click "Link a bank or card".
- Select "Debit Card" and enter your card information.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the linking process.
Once your card is linked, you can transfer funds from your debit card balance to your PayPal balance.
4. Cash a Check On PayPal
If you have an unused check around, you can cash it on PayPal to add money to your account. This will require you to have a PayPal balance account.
To cash checks on PayPal:
- Tap Wallet.
- Tap Cash a check.
- Enter the check amount, take a picture of the front and back of your endorsed check with your mobile device, and tap Next.
- Select how quickly you want access to your money and tap Confirm.
There's a service fee charged for cashing checks on PayPal—typically from $5. If you don't want to incur fees, you can always wait for your check value to be deposited into your PayPal balance in 10 days for free.
Final Thoughts
While having a linked bank account offers the most direct way to manage your PayPal funds, the options above provide alternative methods for adding money without one. Remember to compare fees, security considerations, and convenience when choosing your preferred method.
Have any other method to share? Let us know in the comments section.