The fastest way to move money out of PayPal

To get money out of PayPal, you transfer it to a bank account or debit card linked to your account. The transfer takes 1 to 3 business days if you use a standard transfer, or up to 30 minutes if you pay a fee for an instant transfer. You can also withdraw cash at an ATM using a PayPal debit card, or request a check mailed to your address.

The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the money and whether you want to pay a fee. Standard transfers are free but slower. Instant transfers cost between $0.25 and $2.00 depending on the amount. ATM withdrawals and checks have their own costs and timelines.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard bank transfers from PayPal take 1 to 3 business days and cost nothing, making them the cheapest option for most people.
  • Instant transfers move money in up to 30 minutes but charge a fee of $0.25 to $2.00 per transaction.
  • You must link a valid bank account or debit card to your PayPal account before you can transfer money out.
  • PayPal debit cards let you withdraw cash at ATMs, but you pay a fee each time unless you use an in-network ATM.
  • If your account is limited or flagged, PayPal may hold your money for up to 180 days before releasing it.

Linking a bank account or debit card to PayPal

Before you can withdraw money, you need to add a bank account or debit card to your PayPal account. Go to your account settings, select "Wallet," and choose "Link a bank account" or "Link a card." PayPal will ask for your routing number and account number if you're adding a bank, or your card number if you're adding a debit card.

If you're linking a bank account for the first time, PayPal deposits two small amounts (usually under $1 each) into that account within 1 to 2 business days. You'll then need to confirm those amounts in your PayPal account to verify you own the bank account. This step protects you from someone else linking your bank account without permission.

Debit cards verify instantly in most cases, so you can start transferring money right away. Credit cards cannot be used for withdrawals—only bank accounts and debit cards.

Standard transfers: free but slower

A standard transfer moves money from your PayPal balance to your linked bank account at no cost. The transfer takes 1 to 3 business days, depending on your bank. Weekends and bank holidays don't count as business days, so a transfer you start on Friday afternoon may not arrive until Wednesday.

To start a standard transfer, log into PayPal, go to your wallet, and select "Transfer money." Choose "Transfer to your bank" and enter the amount. PayPal will show you the expected arrival date before you confirm. Once you confirm, the money leaves your PayPal account immediately, but your bank won't show it until the transfer completes.

Standard transfers work well if you're not in a rush and want to avoid fees. Most people use this method for regular withdrawals.

Instant transfers: fast but with a fee

An instant transfer moves money to your bank account or debit card in up to 30 minutes. PayPal charges a fee between $0.25 and $2.00 per transaction, depending on the amount you're transferring. The fee is deducted from your PayPal balance before the money is sent.

To use an instant transfer, go to your wallet, select "Transfer money," and choose "Instant transfer." PayPal will show you the fee for that specific amount before you confirm. The money should appear in your bank account within 30 minutes on business days. If you transfer after business hours or on a weekend, it may arrive the next business day.

Instant transfers are useful when you need cash quickly—for example, to cover an unexpected bill or emergency. However, the fee makes them more expensive than standard transfers, so use them only when speed matters.

Withdrawing cash with a PayPal debit card

If you have a PayPal debit card, you can withdraw cash from ATMs without transferring money to your bank first. The money comes directly from your PayPal balance. PayPal's network of in-network ATMs is free to use, but out-of-network ATMs charge a fee (usually $1.50 to $3.00 per withdrawal, depending on the ATM operator).

To find an in-network ATM, use the ATM locator in the PayPal app or website. Allpoint ATMs are part of PayPal's network and are available at many retailers and convenience stores. Using an in-network ATM saves you money if you withdraw cash regularly.

PayPal debit cards also work at point-of-sale terminals in stores, so you can spend directly from your PayPal balance without transferring money first. This is convenient if you prefer not to carry a separate bank debit card.

Requesting a check from PayPal

PayPal can mail you a check for the balance in your account. Go to your wallet, select "Transfer money," and choose "Request a check." Enter the amount you want on the check and confirm your mailing address. PayPal will mail the check to you within 10 business days.

Checks are useful if you don't have a bank account or debit card linked, or if you prefer a paper record of the withdrawal. However, they're slower than electronic transfers and you'll need to deposit the check at a bank or ATM to access the money. Some banks charge a fee to deposit checks, and the deposit itself can take 1 to 3 business days.

Requesting a check is the slowest withdrawal method, so use it only if other options aren't available to you.

What happens if your PayPal account is limited or flagged

If PayPal suspects unusual activity or a violation of its terms, it may limit your account and hold your money. During a limitation, you cannot withdraw funds, and PayPal may hold your balance for up to 180 days while it investigates. Common reasons for limitations include multiple chargebacks, receiving payments for restricted items, or sudden large transfers.

If your account is limited, PayPal will send you an email explaining why and what you need to do to resolve it. This might include providing documents, answering questions, or waiting out a holding period. Check your email and your PayPal account messages regularly for updates.

You can contact PayPal's Resolution Center to dispute a limitation or provide additional information. However, PayPal's decision is final, and there is no external appeal process. If your account remains limited after 180 days, PayPal will mail you a check for your remaining balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to withdraw money from PayPal?

Standard transfers take 1 to 3 business days and are free. Instant transfers take up to 30 minutes but cost $0.25 to $2.00. Checks take 10 business days to arrive by mail, plus 1 to 3 days to deposit. ATM withdrawals are immediate if you use a PayPal debit card.

Can I withdraw money if I don't have a bank account?

Yes. You can request a check mailed to your address, or you can get a PayPal debit card and withdraw cash at ATMs. Both options take longer than a bank transfer, but they don't require a linked bank account.

What if my bank rejects the transfer?

If your bank rejects a transfer, the money returns to your PayPal account within 3 to 5 business days. Common reasons for rejection include a closed account, incorrect routing number, or a mismatch between the name on your PayPal account and your bank account. Verify your bank details and try again.

Do I pay taxes on money I withdraw from PayPal?

Withdrawing money you already received and reported is not a taxable event. However, if you received the money as income or payment for goods and services, you may owe taxes on it depending on the amount and your location. PayPal sends tax forms (like 1099-K) to users who meet certain thresholds. Consult a tax professional about your specific situation.

Can I set up automatic withdrawals from PayPal?

PayPal does not offer automatic recurring withdrawals. You must manually transfer money each time. However, you can set up a schedule reminder for yourself, or use your PayPal debit card to spend directly from your balance without transferring first.