It's great you're looking to move funds between PayPal and Cash App! Unfortunately, directly transferring money between PayPal and Cash App is not a standard feature offered by either platform. They operate as separate financial ecosystems and don't have a built-in mechanism for direct linking or transfers.
However, don't worry! There are a few workaround methods you can use to achieve your goal. This comprehensive guide will walk you through these options step-by-step. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Choose Your Method - Which Path Will You Take?
Before we begin, take a moment to consider which of the following methods best suits your needs and resources. Each option has its own requirements and potential fees.
- Option A: The Bank Account Bridge - This method involves using a shared bank account as an intermediary. You'll withdraw funds from PayPal to your bank account and then add those funds to your Cash App account from the same bank.
- Option B: The Debit Card Link (Potentially Limited) - In some cases, linking your PayPal debit card to Cash App might allow you to add funds. However, this is not a guaranteed or consistently available feature and depends on Cash App's policies and your specific card.
- Option C: Sending to a Shared Contact (Less Direct) - If you have a trusted friend or family member who uses both platforms, you could potentially send money from your PayPal to them, and then have them send it to you on Cash App. This method relies heavily on trust and may involve fees on their end.
For the purpose of this detailed guide, we will primarily focus on Option A: The Bank Account Bridge, as it's the most reliable and commonly used workaround. We will also briefly touch upon Option B.
Step 2: Setting Up Your Bank Account (The Bridge)
This step assumes you already have a bank account. If not, you'll need to open one before proceeding. Make sure the bank account you choose is linked to both your PayPal and Cash App accounts.
2.1: Linking Your Bank Account to PayPal
- Log in to your PayPal account via the website or the mobile app.
- Navigate to the "Wallet" section (usually found at the top or bottom of the screen/app).
- Look for an option like "Link a bank account" or a "+" symbol next to "Banks and cards."
- Enter your bank's routing number and your account number. Double-check these details for accuracy!
- PayPal may ask you to confirm your bank account. This usually involves PayPal making small deposits into your account (typically a few cents each) and then asking you to verify the amounts. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
2.2: Linking Your Bank Account to Cash App
- Open your Cash App on your mobile device.
- Tap the profile icon (usually your photo or initials) in the top right corner.
- Select "Linked Banks" or "Bank Accounts."
- Tap "Link Bank."
- You might be prompted to select your bank from a list or enter your bank details manually using your routing and account number. Follow the on-screen prompts.
- Cash App may also use a third-party service (like Plaid) to securely link your bank account. Follow their instructions if prompted.
Important Note: Ensure that the names on both your PayPal and bank account match. Discrepancies can cause issues with transfers. Similarly, the name on your Cash App account should ideally match as well.
Step 3: Transferring Funds from PayPal to Your Bank Account
Once your bank account is successfully linked to PayPal, you can initiate the withdrawal.
3.1: Initiating the Withdrawal
- Log in to your PayPal account.
- Go to your "Wallet" or your PayPal balance display.
- Look for an option like "Withdraw Funds," "Transfer to Bank," or similar.
- Select the bank account you linked in the previous step.
- Enter the amount you wish to transfer from your PayPal balance.
- Review the details carefully, including the bank account and the amount. PayPal will usually show you an estimated arrival time for the funds.
- Click "Continue" or "Transfer" to finalize the withdrawal.
3.2: Processing Time and Potential Fees
- Standard transfers to your bank account are often free but can take 1-3 business days to appear in your bank account.
- PayPal may offer an "Instant Transfer" option for a fee, which allows the funds to arrive in your linked bank account much faster (usually within minutes). Be aware of these fees if you choose this option.
Keep an eye on your email and PayPal notifications for updates on the status of your withdrawal.
Step 4: Adding Funds from Your Bank Account to Cash App
Once the funds have successfully landed in your linked bank account, you can now add them to your Cash App balance.
4.1: Initiating the Add Funds Process
- Open your Cash App on your mobile device.
- Tap the "Banking" tab (the house icon at the bottom left).
- Tap "Add Cash."
- Enter the amount you want to add to your Cash App balance. Ensure this amount is available in your linked bank account.
- Tap "Add."
- You may be asked to confirm the transaction using your Cash App PIN or fingerprint.
4.2: Confirmation and Processing Time
- Funds added from your linked bank account to Cash App are usually available instantly or within a few minutes.
- Cash App will typically send you a confirmation notification once the funds have been added to your balance.
Double-check your Cash App balance to ensure the funds have been successfully added.
Step 5: Considering the Debit Card Link (Option B - Use with Caution)
As mentioned earlier, linking your PayPal debit card to Cash App might allow you to add funds directly. However, this functionality can be unreliable and may not be available to all users.
5.1: Attempting to Link Your PayPal Debit Card
- Open your Cash App.
- Tap the profile icon.
- Select "Linked Banks & Cards."
- Tap "Link Card."
- Enter the details of your PayPal debit card, including the card number, expiration date, CVV, and billing zip code.
- Follow any on-screen prompts to complete the linking process.
5.2: Attempting to Add Funds with the Linked Card
- Go to the "Banking" tab in Cash App.
- Tap "Add Cash."
- Enter the desired amount.
- When prompted for the funding source, select your linked PayPal debit card.
- Confirm the transaction.
Important Considerations for Debit Card Linking:
- Success is not guaranteed. Cash App's policies regarding linking prepaid or specific types of debit cards can change.
- Fees may apply. Cash App might charge a fee for adding funds using a debit card.
- Transaction limits may apply.
If this method doesn't work, revert to the more reliable Bank Account Bridge method.
Step 6: Being Aware of Fees and Limits
Both PayPal and Cash App have their own fee structures and transaction limits. It's crucial to be aware of these to avoid unexpected charges or issues.
- PayPal Fees: Review PayPal's fee schedule for withdrawals to your bank account (especially for instant transfers) and for any potential fees associated with using their debit card.
- Cash App Fees: While adding funds from a linked bank account is usually free, be aware of fees for instant deposits and for using linked debit cards (if the feature works). Also, check Cash App's limits on how much you can add to your balance.
You can usually find detailed information on fees and limits on the respective platforms' websites or within their apps' help sections.
Step 7: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things don't go as smoothly as planned. Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to address them:
- Bank account linking fails: Double-check the routing and account numbers. Ensure the names on your accounts match. Contact your bank or PayPal/Cash App support for assistance.
- Withdrawal from PayPal is delayed: Standard transfers can take 1-3 business days. If it takes longer, contact PayPal support.
- Funds not appearing in Cash App: Ensure the withdrawal from PayPal has completed and the funds have reached your bank account. If so, and the funds still haven't appeared in Cash App after a reasonable time, contact Cash App support.
- Debit card linking not working: This is a common issue. The debit card linking feature for PayPal cards on Cash App is not consistently reliable. Use the bank account method instead.
If you encounter any persistent issues, the best course of action is to contact the customer support teams of both PayPal and Cash App. They can provide specific guidance based on your account details.
Conclusion: Patience and Persistence are Key
While directly transferring funds between PayPal and Cash App isn't possible, the Bank Account Bridge method provides a reliable workaround. Remember to double-check all your account details, be aware of potential fees and processing times, and don't hesitate to reach out to customer support if you encounter any difficulties. Good luck moving your money!
Frequently Asked Questions (How to...)
How to link my bank account to PayPal?
Quick Answer: Log in to PayPal, go to "Wallet," select "Link a bank account," and enter your routing and account numbers. You may need to verify small test deposits.
How to link my bank account to Cash App?
Quick Answer: Open Cash App, tap your profile icon, select "Linked Banks," tap "Link Bank," and follow the prompts to connect your bank account.
How to withdraw money from PayPal to my bank account?
Quick Answer: Log in to PayPal, go to your "Wallet" or balance, select "Withdraw Funds" or similar, choose your linked bank, enter the amount, and confirm.
How to add money to Cash App from my bank account?
Quick Answer: Open Cash App, tap the "Banking" tab, select "Add Cash," enter the amount, and confirm using your PIN or fingerprint.
How to check if my bank account is linked to PayPal?
Quick Answer: Log in to PayPal, go to "Wallet," and you should see your linked bank account listed under "Banks and cards."
How to check if my bank account is linked to Cash App?
Quick Answer: Open Cash App, tap your profile icon, and select "Linked Banks." Your linked bank account should be displayed.
How to use my PayPal debit card on Cash App?
Quick Answer: Open Cash App, go to "Linked Banks & Cards," try to "Link Card" using your PayPal debit card details, and then attempt to add funds using it. Note that this method is not always reliable.
How to find PayPal's withdrawal fees?
Quick Answer: Go to the PayPal website, scroll to the bottom, click on "Fees," and look for the section on withdrawing funds.
How to find Cash App's fees for adding funds?
Quick Answer: Open Cash App, tap your profile icon, go to "Help," and search for "fees" or "adding cash."
How to contact PayPal or Cash App support if I have issues?
Quick Answer: Both platforms have help centers within their apps and websites with contact options like chat, email, or phone support. Look for "Help," "Support," or "Contact Us" options.