Alright, let's get started! Have you ever wanted to make online purchases or receive payments without directly sharing your bank details every single time? If so, you're in the right place! Linking your bank account to your PayPal account is a fantastic way to streamline your online transactions and add an extra layer of security.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently connect your bank account to your PayPal. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Logging into Your PayPal Account
First things first, you need to access your PayPal account.
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| How To Link Bank Account Paypal |
1.1 Accessing the PayPal Website or App
You can link your bank account either through the PayPal website on your computer or via the PayPal mobile application on your smartphone or tablet. Choose the method that is most convenient for you.
- On a Computer: Open your web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari) and navigate to the official PayPal website: ***
www.paypal.com - On a Mobile Device: Open the PayPal app on your device. If you don't have it yet, you can download it from your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android or App Store for iOS).
1.2 Entering Your Login Credentials
Once you're on the website or in the app, you'll need to log in to your account.
- Enter the email address associated with your PayPal account in the designated field.
- Next, enter your password in the password field.
- Click on the "Log In" or "Sign In" button.
Important Note: Ensure you are on the genuine PayPal website or using the official PayPal app to protect your login information from phishing scams. Look for the padlock icon in your browser's address bar when using the website.
Tip: Take notes for easier recall later.
Step 2: Navigating to the 'Wallet' or 'Banks and Cards' Section
Once you've successfully logged in, you need to find the section where you can manage your payment methods.
2.1 Locating the 'Wallet' on the Website
If you're using the PayPal website:
- Look for the "Wallet" option in the top navigation menu. Click on it. This is where you can view and manage your linked bank accounts, credit cards, and debit cards.
2.2 Finding 'Banks and Cards' in the Mobile App
If you're using the PayPal mobile app:
- Tap on the profile icon, usually located in the top left or top right corner of the screen.
- A menu will appear. Look for an option like "Banks and Cards" or simply "Banks". Tap on it.
Step 3: Initiating the Bank Linking Process
Now that you're in the right section, it's time to start linking your bank account.
3.1 Clicking 'Link a Bank Account' or Similar Option
Within the 'Wallet' or 'Banks and Cards' section, you should see an option to add a new payment method.
Tip: Look out for transitions like ‘however’ or ‘but’.
- On the website, look for a button or link that says something like "Link a bank account" or "+ Link a bank". Click on it.
- In the mobile app, you'll likely see a "+" icon or a button labeled "Link a bank or card". Tap on it and then choose "Link a bank account".
3.2 Choosing Your Bank
PayPal offers several ways to link your bank account, often including instant verification through Plaid (a secure third-party service) or manual linking.
- Instant Verification (via Plaid): You might see a list of popular banks. If your bank is listed, you can select it and follow the prompts to log in to your online banking through Plaid. This is usually the quickest method.
- Manual Linking: If your bank isn't listed or you prefer not to use instant verification, you'll likely see an option like "Link your bank manually" or "Enter bank details manually". Choose this option.
Step 4: Providing Your Bank Account Details
If you opted for manual linking, you'll need to enter your bank account information carefully.
4.1 Locating Your Bank's Routing Number
The routing number (also known as an ABA routing number) is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank. You can usually find this number at the bottom of your checks or by logging into your online banking portal. You can also search online for "[Your Bank Name] routing number".
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- Enter the routing number in the designated field. Double-check that you've entered it correctly.
4.2 Entering Your Account Number
Your account number is the unique number that identifies your specific bank account. This is also typically found at the bottom of your checks or in your online banking information.
- Enter your account number in the designated field. Be extremely careful to enter this number accurately.
4.3 Selecting Your Account Type
You'll need to specify whether the bank account you're linking is a checking account or a savings account.
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
- Choose the appropriate option: "Checking" or "Savings".
4.4 Reviewing and Agreeing
Before proceeding, review all the information you've entered to ensure it's correct.
- Carefully check the routing number and account number for any typos.
- Once you're sure the details are correct, click on "Agree and Link", "Continue", or a similar button to submit your bank account information to PayPal.
Step 5: Confirming Your Bank Account (If Necessary)
In some cases, PayPal may require you to confirm your bank account to verify that you are the rightful owner. This usually involves a small deposit process.
5.1 Waiting for Small Deposits
PayPal will deposit two small amounts (typically between $0.01 and $0.99 USD, or equivalent in your local currency) into your bank account. These deposits will usually appear within 1-3 business days.
5.2 Checking Your Bank Statement
Once the deposits appear in your bank account, note the exact amounts of both deposits.
- Log in to your online banking or check your bank statement to find these two small deposit amounts.
5.3 Confirming on PayPal
Go back to your PayPal account and navigate to the 'Wallet' or 'Banks and Cards' section.
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
- You should see a notification or a link related to confirming your bank account. Click on it.
- Enter the exact amounts of the two small deposits that PayPal sent to your bank account in the designated fields.
- Click on "Confirm" or "Verify".
If you entered the amounts correctly, your bank account will now be confirmed and linked to your PayPal account.
Step 6: Using Your Linked Bank Account
Once your bank account is linked and (if necessary) confirmed, you can start using it for various PayPal transactions.
6.1 Making Payments
When you make a purchase online using PayPal, you'll usually have the option to choose your linked bank account as the funding source.
- During the checkout process, select PayPal as your payment method.
- When prompted to choose a funding source, you should see your linked bank account listed along with any other linked cards or your PayPal balance.
- Select your bank account and complete the transaction.
6.2 Receiving Payments
If someone sends you money through PayPal, it will initially go into your PayPal balance. You can then transfer these funds to your linked bank account.
- Go to your PayPal account summary or 'Wallet'.
- Look for an option to "Transfer funds", "Withdraw", or "Send Money" (to yourself).
- Select your linked bank account as the recipient and enter the amount you want to transfer.
- Confirm the transfer. It usually takes 1-3 business days for the funds to appear in your bank account.
Congratulations! You have successfully linked your bank account to your PayPal account. This will make your online transactions more convenient and secure.
Frequently Asked Questions (How to...)
Here are 10 common questions about linking a bank account to PayPal:
How to find my bank's routing number?
- Quick Answer: Check the bottom of your checks, log into your online banking portal, or search online for "[Your Bank Name] routing number".
How to find my bank account number?
- Quick Answer: Your account number is usually located at the bottom of your checks or in your online banking information.
How to link a different bank account to PayPal?
- Quick Answer: Follow the same steps outlined above (Step 1 to Step 4) with the details of the new bank account. You can link multiple bank accounts.
How to remove a linked bank account from PayPal?
- Quick Answer: Go to your PayPal 'Wallet' or 'Banks and Cards', select the bank account you want to remove, and click on the "Remove" or "Delete" option.
How to confirm my bank account on PayPal if I didn't receive the deposits?
- Quick Answer: Double-check that you entered the correct bank account details. If they are correct and you haven't received the deposits after 3-5 business days, contact PayPal customer support for assistance.
How to change the primary bank account on PayPal?
- Quick Answer: In your PayPal 'Wallet' or 'Banks and Cards', select the bank account you want to make primary and look for an option like "Make primary" or "Set as preferred".
How to troubleshoot if my bank account linking fails?
- Quick Answer: Ensure you've entered the correct routing and account numbers, and that the name on your bank account matches the name on your PayPal account. If issues persist, contact PayPal support.
How to use my linked bank account to send money to someone on PayPal?
- Quick Answer: When sending money, you'll have the option to choose your linked bank account as the funding source instead of your PayPal balance or a linked card.
How to know if my bank account is successfully linked to PayPal?
- Quick Answer: In your PayPal 'Wallet' or 'Banks and Cards', your bank account will be listed with a status of "Confirmed" or "Linked".
How to secure my bank account information when linking to PayPal?
- Quick Answer: Ensure you are using the official PayPal website or app. PayPal uses encryption and other security measures to protect your financial information. Avoid sharing your login details with anyone.
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