Yes, PayPal has a QR code feature for both sending and receiving payments
PayPal lets you generate a QR code that other people can scan to send you money, and you can also scan QR codes to pay someone else. The feature works in the PayPal app on your phone — you won't find it on the website. When someone scans your code, they're taken directly to a payment screen with your name and account already filled in. When you scan someone else's code, you see their payment request and can approve the transfer right away.
The QR code feature is free and doesn't charge extra fees beyond PayPal's standard transaction costs. It's useful for splitting bills, collecting money from a group, or taking payments at a small business without needing a card reader. The code itself doesn't expire, so you can share it multiple times or print it and leave it on a table.
Key Takeaways
- You generate your own QR code in the PayPal app by tapping the QR icon, and anyone with a smartphone camera can scan it to send you money.
- Scanning someone else's QR code takes you to their payment screen, where you enter the amount and confirm the transfer.
- QR code payments use the same transaction fees as regular PayPal transfers — no extra charge for using the code.
- The QR code feature only works in the mobile app, not on PayPal's website.
How to generate your own PayPal QR code
Open the PayPal app on your phone and tap the QR code icon. On most phones this appears near the top of the screen, sometimes inside a menu. PayPal will display your unique QR code on the screen. You can screenshot it, share it directly to another app, or print it out. Anyone who scans the code with their phone camera will be taken to a payment screen that shows your name and lets them choose how much to send you.
Your QR code is tied to your PayPal account, not to a specific payment request. This means the same code works for multiple payments — someone can scan it today to send you $20, and someone else can scan it next week to send you $50. The code doesn't change and doesn't have an expiration date.
How to scan a PayPal QR code to pay someone
Open the PayPal app and tap the QR code icon again. This time, select the option to scan (usually labeled "Scan" or shown as a camera icon). Point your phone camera at the other person's QR code. The app will recognize it and take you to their payment screen with their name already filled in. Enter the amount you want to send, review the details, and tap confirm to complete the payment.
If you don't have the PayPal app, you can also use your phone's built-in camera app to scan a PayPal QR code. Most modern phones will recognize it and ask if you want to open the link in PayPal. Tapping yes will take you to the payment screen in your browser or the app.
What happens when someone scans your code
When another person scans your QR code, they see a screen that shows your name, your profile picture (if you've added one), and a field to enter the payment amount. They don't see your email address or account number — just enough information to know they're sending money to the right person. They can then choose how much to send and confirm the payment using their PayPal balance, linked bank account, or debit card.
You'll receive a notification when the payment arrives, just like any other PayPal transfer. The money goes into your PayPal account, and you can transfer it to your bank account or use it to pay others. There's no approval step on your end — once they confirm, the payment is sent.
Transaction fees and limits for QR code payments
PayPal charges the same fees for QR code payments as for regular transfers. If you're sending money to a friend or family member using the "Friends and Family" option, there's no fee. If you're receiving a payment for goods or services, PayPal takes a percentage of the amount (the exact percentage varies by country and account type). The person sending the money doesn't pay an extra fee just for using the QR code.
PayPal's standard transaction limits apply to QR code payments. You can send or receive up to a certain amount per transaction and per month, depending on your account history and verification status. If you're new to PayPal, your limits may be lower. Check your account settings in the app to see your current sending and receiving limits.
Security considerations when using QR codes
Your PayPal QR code is safe to share publicly — it only lets people send you money, not withdraw from your account or access your personal information. However, be cautious about QR codes you receive from others. Scammers sometimes create fake QR codes that look like they're from a business or friend but actually direct you to a phishing page or a payment screen for a different account. Only scan QR codes from people you know or from official sources.
If you're using QR codes for business, consider adding a note or label so people know what they're paying for. This reduces confusion and helps you track which payments are for what. You can also set up a PayPal.Me link as an alternative — it works similarly but uses a web address instead of a code.
Alternatives to QR codes for PayPal payments
If QR codes don't work for your situation, PayPal offers other ways to request or send money. PayPal.Me is a personalized link (like paypal.me/yourname) that you can share via text, email, or social media. The person clicks the link and enters the amount they want to send. It works on both phones and computers, unlike the QR code feature which requires the app.
You can also request money directly through the PayPal app by entering someone's email address or phone number. They'll receive a notification asking them to pay you. For businesses, PayPal offers invoicing tools and payment buttons that can be embedded on a website. Each method has different fees and features, so choose based on whether you're collecting from one person or many, and whether you need a physical or digital option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my phone's camera to scan a PayPal QR code without the app?
Yes. Most modern phones have a built-in camera app that recognizes QR codes. Point your camera at the code and tap the notification that appears. It will open the PayPal payment screen in your browser or app. You'll still need a PayPal account to complete the payment.
What if someone scans my QR code but doesn't complete the payment?
Nothing happens. If they close the app or navigate away before confirming, no payment is sent and you won't be charged anything. You'll only receive money when someone actually confirms and submits the payment.
Can I create multiple QR codes for different purposes?
No. PayPal generates one QR code per account. You can't create separate codes for different payment reasons. If you need to track payments for different purposes, use notes or labels when you receive the money, or set up separate PayPal accounts.
Is there a fee if I receive money through a QR code?
It depends on the payment type. Payments from friends and family have no fee. Payments for goods or services are subject to PayPal's standard transaction fee, which varies by country and account type. The sender doesn't pay extra for using the QR code.
Can I print my QR code and use it in a physical location?
Yes. You can screenshot your QR code, print it, and display it anywhere — at a cash register, on an invoice, or on a poster. Anyone with a smartphone can scan it to pay you. This is useful for small businesses, fundraisers, or collecting payments at events.