How to Withdraw Money from PayPal (Step-by-Step, Fees & Timing)

byAppCashify •
Young African woman holding a smartphone, representing withdrawing money from PayPal to a bank account safely
Withdrawing money from PayPal to your bank is a simple and secure process when set up correctly.

PayPal has become one of the most trusted digital payment platforms worldwide, with over 426 million users relying on it for online transactions. Whether you're a freelancer receiving payments, an online seller managing revenue, or someone who just received money from friends, knowing how to withdraw money from PayPal efficiently is essential.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every method to cash out your PayPal balance, from standard bank transfers to instant withdrawals. You'll learn about fees, processing times, country-specific rules, and solutions to common withdrawal problems.

Quick Answer: How to Withdraw Money from PayPal

Short answer: Log in to PayPal, go to Wallet, click “Transfer Money,” choose your bank, select Standard (free, 1–3 days) or Instant (fee, minutes), and confirm.

The fastest way to withdraw PayPal to bank is through your PayPal account dashboard. Here's the quick process:

On Desktop:

  • Log in to your PayPal account at paypal.com
  • Click "Transfer Money" or navigate to your Wallet
  • Select "Transfer to your bank account"
  • Choose your linked bank account
  • Enter the withdrawal amount
  • Select transfer speed: Standard (1-3 days, free) or Instant (minutes, fee applies)
  • Review details and confirm

On Mobile App:

  • Open the PayPal app and tap your balance
  • Tap "Transfer" or "Transfer Money"
  • Select "Transfer to bank"
  • Choose your bank account and enter amount
  • Select "in 1-3 days" (free) or "in minutes" (fee applies)
  • Confirm the transfer

Timing: Standard transfers take 1-3 business days and are free. Instant transfers complete within 30 minutes but charge a fee of approximately 1.5% to 1.75% of the transfer amount.

How to Withdraw PayPal Money to Your Bank Account

Withdrawing to your bank account is the most common method to cash out PayPal funds. Before you can withdraw, you must have a verified bank account linked to your PayPal profile.

On Desktop (Web)

Follow these detailed steps to transfer money from your PayPal account to your bank using a computer:

  1. Access your account: Visit www.paypal.com and log in with your email and password
  2. Navigate to transfers: Click on "Wallet" at the top of the page, then select "Transfer Money"
  3. Choose destination: Click "Transfer to your bank account"
  4. Select bank: Choose which linked bank account should receive the funds
  5. Enter amount: Type the amount you want to withdraw (minimum $1 for most accounts)
  6. Select speed: Choose between Standard Transfer (free, 1-3 business days) or Instant Transfer (fee applies, typically within 30 minutes)
  7. Review and confirm: Check all details including amount, destination, fees, and estimated arrival time
  8. Complete transfer: Click "Transfer Now" to finalize

You'll receive a confirmation email from PayPal once the transfer is initiated. For standard transfers, the money typically appears in your bank account within 1-3 business days, though transfers initiated after 7:00 PM ET or on weekends may take an additional day.

On Mobile App

The mobile withdrawal process is streamlined for convenience:

  1. Open PayPal app: Launch the PayPal application on your smartphone
  2. View balance: Tap on your PayPal balance displayed on the home screen
  3. Initiate transfer: Tap "Transfer Money" or simply "Transfer"
  4. Choose method: Select "Transfer to bank" at the bottom of the screen
  5. Enter details: Select your bank account and enter the withdrawal amount
  6. Pick timing: Choose "in 1-3 days" (no fee) or "in minutes" (fee applies)
  7. Confirm: Review and tap "Transfer Now"

The mobile app provides instant confirmation and allows you to track your transfer status in the Activity section.

Before you can withdraw funds, you must link and verify a bank account. This one-time setup process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

Linking Your Bank Account

Desktop Method:

  1. Log in and click "Wallet" at the top of the page
  2. Click "Link a bank account" or the "+" symbol
  3. Select your bank from the list (or click "Don't see your bank?")
  4. Choose instant connection (if available) or enter details manually
  5. For instant connection: Enter your online banking username and password
  6. For manual entry: Provide your account number and routing number
  7. Click "Agree and Link"

Mobile Method:

  1. Tap "Wallet" in the PayPal app
  2. Tap "+" next to "Banks and cards"
  3. Select "Banks"
  4. Choose your bank or enter information manually
  5. Complete the connection process

Verifying Your Bank Account

Verification is required for security before you can withdraw. PayPal uses two methods:

Instant Verification: If you connected using your online banking credentials, your account is verified immediately upon successful authentication.

Micro-Deposit Verification: If you entered details manually, PayPal will deposit two small amounts (between $0.01 and $0.99) into your account within 2-3 business days. You must then:

  • Check your bank statement for these two deposits
  • Return to PayPal and click on the unconfirmed bank account
  • Enter the exact amounts of both deposits
  • Click "Submit" to complete verification

Important: The name on your PayPal account must exactly match the name on your bank account. Mismatches can cause transfer failures.

Common Errors When Linking

  • Name mismatch: Ensure exact name match including middle initials
  • Incorrect account number: Double-check all digits
  • Wrong routing number: Verify you're using the correct routing number for electronic transfers, not wire transfers
  • Bank not supported: Some smaller banks may require manual entry
  • Account already linked: Each bank account can only be linked to one PayPal account at a time

PayPal Withdrawal Fees Explained (2026)

Understanding PayPal cash out fees helps you make cost-effective decisions. Fee structures vary based on withdrawal method, account type, and location.

Standard Withdrawal Fees

Withdrawal Method Fee Processing Time
Standard Bank Transfer Free 1-3 business days
Instant Transfer to Bank 1.5% - 1.75% (min $0.25-$0.50) Within 30 minutes
Instant Transfer to Debit Card 1.75% (max $25 USD) Within 30 minutes
Standard Transfer to Debit Card Free 48 hours (Visa only)
Check by Mail $1.50 USD 5-10 business days

Currency Conversion Fees

If you're withdrawing money in a different currency than your PayPal balance, additional fees apply:

  • Currency conversion spread: 3-4% above the base exchange rate
  • For goods/services payments: Approximately 3% conversion fee
  • For other transactions: Approximately 4% conversion fee

PayPal's exchange rates are updated regularly but include a markup. The exact rate is shown before you confirm the withdrawal.

Fee Examples

Example 1: Withdrawing $100 via Standard Transfer

  • Fee: $0
  • You receive: $100
  • Time: 1-3 business days

Example 2: Withdrawing $500 via Instant Transfer

  • Fee: $8.75 (1.75%)
  • You receive: $491.25
  • Time: Within 30 minutes

Example 3: Withdrawing $50 from USD to EUR bank account

  • Standard transfer fee: $0
  • Currency conversion: ~3-4% (approximately $1.50-$2.00)
  • You receive: Approximately €44-€45 (depending on exchange rate)

Business Account Fees

For business accounts, withdrawal fees are similar to personal accounts:

  • Standard withdrawals to bank: Free
  • Instant transfers: 1.5% of transfer amount (minimum $0.50)
  • Physical checks: $1.50 per check

PayPal Withdrawal Time & Limits

Understanding processing times and limits helps you plan your cash flow effectively.

Processing Times by Method

Method Expected Time Notes
Instant Transfer 30 minutes or less May take 1-3 days for some banks to finalize
Standard Bank Transfer 1-3 business days Transfers after 7 PM ET add 1 day
Debit Card (Standard) 48 hours Visa debit cards only
Check by Mail 5-10 business days Plus mailing time
International Transfer 3-5 business days Varies by country

Withdrawal Limits

PayPal imposes various limits depending on account status and verification level:

Personal Accounts:

  • Minimum withdrawal: $1.00 USD (or equivalent)
  • Instant transfer (bank): $25,000 per transaction
  • Instant transfer (debit card): $5,000 per transaction, $5,000 per day, $15,000 per month
  • Standard transfer: Typically unlimited for verified accounts

Business Accounts:

  • Similar limits to personal accounts
  • Higher limits may be available based on account history
  • Contact PayPal for limit increases if needed

Unverified Accounts:

  • Lower withdrawal limits apply
  • Complete account verification to increase limits
  • Verification requires linking a bank account or credit card

Factors Affecting Processing Time

  • Time of day: Transfers after 7 PM ET may take an extra day
  • Weekends and holidays: Only business days count toward processing time
  • Bank processing: Your bank's internal processes can add time
  • Security reviews: Unusual activity may trigger additional review
  • First-time withdrawals: May take slightly longer for security verification
  • Account limitations: Restricted accounts experience delays

Country-Specific PayPal Withdrawal Rules

PayPal withdrawal processes vary by country due to local banking regulations and available services.

United States

US users enjoy the most comprehensive withdrawal options:

  • Available methods: Standard transfer, instant transfer, debit card withdrawal, checks, PayPal Debit Card
  • Standard timing: 1-3 business days, free
  • Instant transfer fee: 1.75% (minimum $0.25, maximum $25)
  • PayPal Debit Card: Available for personal and business accounts
  • Check option: $1.50 fee, arrives in 5-10 business days
  • ATM withdrawals: Free at MoneyPass ATMs, $2.50 at other ATMs

United Kingdom & Europe

European users have access to efficient withdrawal systems:

  • Standard transfer: Free, typically 3-5 working days
  • Instant transfer: Free in UK (varies by bank), completes within 30 minutes
  • SEPA transfers: Standard across European Union countries
  • Currency support: Multiple European currencies supported
  • Local banking: Must use local bank accounts matching PayPal registration country

South Africa (FNB Withdraw Service)

South African users access PayPal withdrawals through a partnership with First National Bank:

How FNB Withdraw Service Works:

  1. Create a free FNB Online Banking profile (even if you don't bank with FNB)
  2. Link your PayPal account through FNB's portal at www.fnb.co.za
  3. Navigate to Forex → PayPal Services
  4. Select "Withdraw from PayPal"
  5. Enter amount in USD and confirm exchange rate
  6. Funds convert to South African Rand automatically

FNB PayPal Service Details:

  • Fee: Maximum 1.51% with tiered pricing based on transaction value
  • Timing: Instant for FNB accounts, 3-6 business days for other South African banks
  • Eligibility: Any South African bank account can be linked
  • Currency: Withdrawals automatically convert from USD to ZAR
  • Requirements: Must comply with South African Reserve Bank regulations
  • Support: Contact FNB at 087 572 9725 or paypalenquiries@fnb.co.za

The FNB service is particularly valuable for South African freelancers, remote workers, and businesses receiving international payments, as it provides a regulated pathway to access foreign currency earnings.

Other Countries

  • Canada: Similar to US, with CAD currency support and 1-3 day standard transfers
  • Australia: Free standard transfers, 1-2 business days, AUD support
  • India: Must withdraw to Indian bank account, may have additional fees
  • Philippines: Can link to local banks or services like GCash for faster access
  • Kenya: Integration with M-Pesa for mobile money transfers

Always check PayPal's country-specific fee page for the most current information on withdrawal options and costs in your region.

Alternative Ways to Cash Out PayPal Funds

Beyond standard bank transfers, several alternative methods exist for accessing your PayPal money.

PayPal Debit Card

Available primarily in the United States for both personal and business accounts:

  • How it works: Physical Mastercard linked directly to your PayPal balance
  • ATM access: Withdraw up to $400 per day
  • ATM fees: Free at MoneyPass network ATMs, $2.50 at others
  • Point of sale: Use anywhere Mastercard is accepted
  • Application: Apply through your PayPal account dashboard

Transfer to Digital Wallets

Some services allow you to bridge PayPal with other financial platforms:

  • Wise (formerly TransferWise): Receive PayPal funds to Wise borderless account, often with better exchange rates for international transfers
  • Payoneer: Some users link PayPal to Payoneer for cross-border payments, though direct transfers aren't always available
  • Mobile wallets: In select countries, link PayPal to services like GCash (Philippines), M-Pesa (Kenya), or similar platforms

These alternatives are educational options and may have their own fee structures. Always compare total costs before choosing a method.

Check by Mail

For users without access to bank accounts:

  • Fee: $1.50 USD for personal accounts
  • Minimum: $1.51 withdrawal amount
  • Delivery: 5-10 business days in US, longer internationally
  • Requirements: Verified linked payment method with matching address
  • Limitations: Not available in all countries, cannot ship to P.O. boxes

When Alternatives Make Sense

  • Frequent international transfers: Services like Wise may offer better exchange rates
  • Immediate cash needs: PayPal Debit Card provides instant ATM access
  • No bank account: Check by mail or debit card options work without banking relationships
  • Business operations: Dedicated business payment processors might integrate better with accounting systems
  • Currency diversification: Multi-currency accounts can help manage foreign exchange risk

For more information on digital payment alternatives, explore our guides on PayPal fees and earning money online.

Common PayPal Withdrawal Problems (and Fixes)

Even with a straightforward process, issues can arise. Here are the most common problems and their solutions.

Pending or Delayed Transfers

Problem: Your withdrawal shows as "pending" for longer than expected.

Causes and Solutions:

  • Security review: PayPal may review unusual transactions. Check email for notifications and provide requested information
  • Weekend/holiday timing: Transfers only process on business days. Initiated Friday evening? Expect Monday processing
  • Bank processing: Your bank may take 1-2 additional days beyond PayPal's processing. Contact your bank if delayed
  • First withdrawal: First-time withdrawals often take longer for security verification

What to do: Check your PayPal activity page for status updates. If pending more than 5 business days, contact PayPal support.

Failed Transfer

Problem: Your withdrawal fails and money returns to PayPal balance.

Common Causes:

  • Incorrect account information: Account or routing number entered incorrectly
  • Name mismatch: Name on PayPal doesn't exactly match bank account name
  • Closed account: The linked bank account is no longer active
  • Bank restrictions: Some banks don't accept certain types of electronic transfers
  • Insufficient funds: Trying to withdraw more than your available balance

Solutions:

  1. Verify all bank account details are correct
  2. Ensure name matches exactly (including middle initials)
  3. Remove and re-link the bank account
  4. Try a different bank account if available
  5. Contact your bank to confirm they accept PayPal transfers

Note that return fees may apply for failed withdrawals. Money typically returns to your PayPal balance within one week.

Account Limitation

Problem: You receive a message that your account is limited and cannot withdraw.

Why it happens:

  • Unusual account activity detected
  • Identity verification needed
  • Dispute or chargeback on your account
  • Violation of PayPal's policies
  • Security concerns

How to resolve:

  1. Log in to PayPal and check the Resolution Center
  2. Review what information or action PayPal needs
  3. Upload requested documents (ID, proof of address, etc.)
  4. Respond to any inquiries promptly
  5. Wait for PayPal to review (typically 3-5 business days)

Instant Transfer Not Available

Problem: Instant transfer option doesn't appear for your account or card.

Reasons:

  • Your bank or card issuer doesn't support instant transfers
  • Account not fully verified
  • First-time setup requires 3-day waiting period
  • Daily or monthly limit reached
  • Feature not available in your country

Fix: Use standard transfer instead, or try linking a different debit card. Visa and Mastercard debit cards have the best instant transfer compatibility.

Currency Conversion Issues

Problem: Unexpected fees when withdrawing in different currency.

Solution:

  • Review PayPal's currency conversion rates before confirming
  • Consider holding balance in the withdrawal currency to avoid conversion
  • For regular international transfers, evaluate alternative services with better rates
  • Convert currency within PayPal before withdrawing (may offer better visibility of costs)

Compliance Holds

Problem: Funds held for 21-180 days after receiving payment.

When it happens:

  • New sellers receiving large payments
  • Accounts with history of disputes
  • High-risk transactions
  • Regulatory compliance requirements

How to release funds faster:

  • Add tracking information for shipped items
  • Maintain good customer communication
  • Build positive selling history over time
  • Ensure customer confirms receipt/satisfaction

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to withdraw money from PayPal?

Standard bank transfers take 1-3 business days and are free. Instant transfers complete within 30 minutes but charge a fee of approximately 1.5-1.75%. Transfers initiated after 7 PM ET or on weekends may take an additional day. International withdrawals can take 3-5 business days depending on your location and bank.

Is there a minimum amount to withdraw from PayPal?

The minimum withdrawal amount is typically $1.00 USD for bank transfers. For checks by mail, the minimum is $1.51 USD. These amounts may vary slightly depending on your country and currency.

Can I withdraw money from PayPal without a bank account?

Yes, several options exist without a bank account. In the US, you can apply for a PayPal Debit Card and withdraw cash from ATMs. You can also request a check by mail for a $1.50 fee. Some countries offer alternative withdrawal methods through local partners or mobile money services like GCash in the Philippines or M-Pesa in Kenya.

What are PayPal instant transfer fees?

Instant transfers to your bank account typically cost 1.5% to 1.75% of the transfer amount with a minimum fee of $0.25 to $0.50. Instant transfers to a debit card cost 1.75% with a maximum fee of $25 USD. Standard transfers to bank accounts are always free but take 1-3 business days.

Why is my PayPal withdrawal pending?

Withdrawals may show as pending for several reasons: security reviews on unusual transactions, weekend or holiday timing (only business days count), your bank's processing time, or first-time withdrawal verification. Most pending withdrawals complete within 1-3 business days. If your withdrawal is pending for more than 5 business days, contact PayPal support.

Can I cancel a PayPal withdrawal?

Standard withdrawals can typically be cancelled within a short window (usually a few minutes) after initiating the transfer. Log into your account, go to Activity, find the withdrawal, and look for a "Cancel" option. Instant transfers cannot be cancelled once confirmed. If you need to reverse a completed withdrawal, you'll need to transfer money back from your bank to PayPal.

Do PayPal withdrawals work on weekends?

You can initiate withdrawals on weekends, but processing only occurs on business days. A withdrawal started Saturday will begin processing Monday. The 1-3 business day timeline for standard transfers doesn't include weekends or bank holidays. Instant transfers may complete on weekends, though some banks may not finalize the deposit until the next business day.

How do I withdraw PayPal money in South Africa?

South African users must use the FNB Withdraw Service. Create a free FNB Online Banking profile at www.fnb.co.za, link your PayPal account through the Forex section, select "Withdraw from PayPal," and enter your withdrawal amount. Funds automatically convert from USD to South African Rand. The fee is maximum 1.51% and transfers are instant for FNB accounts or 3-6 days for other South African banks.

Final Thoughts: Master Your PayPal Withdrawals

Withdrawing money from PayPal is a straightforward process once you understand the available methods, fees, and timing. Whether you choose free standard transfers or opt for the convenience of instant withdrawals, knowing your options helps you make informed financial decisions.

Remember these key points:

  • Standard bank transfers are free and take 1-3 business days
  • Instant transfers cost approximately 1.5-1.75% but complete in minutes
  • Always verify your bank account matches your PayPal name exactly
  • Be aware of currency conversion fees when withdrawing across currencies
  • Check country-specific rules if you're outside the United States

Did this guide help you understand how to withdraw money from PayPal? Share it with someone who uses PayPal for their online business or freelance work. Leave a comment below with your experience or any questions about PayPal withdrawals.

For more guides on digital payments, online earning, and financial platforms, explore our other resources:

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