Change your PayPal payment source to a credit card
PayPal lets you store multiple payment methods and choose which one to use for each transaction. If you have a bank account linked to your PayPal account and want to use a credit card instead, you can change your default payment method or select a different card at checkout. The process takes less than a minute and does not require you to remove your bank account.
You can make this change on the PayPal website or through the mobile app. The steps are the same either way, and the change takes effect when ready for your next purchase.
Key Takeaways
- You can set a credit card as your default payment method so PayPal uses it automatically for all purchases, or choose a card at checkout each time.
- Changing your payment method does not remove your bank account from PayPal — both can stay linked at the same time.
- If you have not added a credit card to your PayPal account yet, you will need to do that first before you can select it as a payment source.
- PayPal charges different fees depending on whether you pay with a credit card, debit card, or bank account, so check the fee structure before you decide.
Add a credit card to your PayPal account if you haven't already
Before you can use a credit card as your payment method, the card must be added to your PayPal wallet. Log into your PayPal account on the website or open the mobile app. On the website, click the gear icon in the top right corner and select Wallet. On the mobile app, tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) and select Wallet.
Click or tap Link a card or Add a card. Enter your card number, expiration date, CVV (the three-digit code on the back), and the billing address associated with the card. PayPal will ask you to confirm the card by charging a small amount (usually under $1) and then crediting it back. This verification typically completes within one to two business days, though you can sometimes use the card before verification is finished.
Set a credit card as your default payment method
Once your credit card is verified and linked to your PayPal account, you can make it your default payment source. Go to your Wallet again. Find the credit card you want to use and look for a menu icon (three dots) next to it. Click or tap that icon and select Set as default.
After you set a card as default, PayPal will use that card for all purchases unless you change it again. The next time you make a payment through PayPal, the system will automatically charge your credit card instead of your bank account. You can change your default payment method at any time by repeating these steps with a different card.
Choose a credit card at checkout instead of changing your default
If you do not want to change your default payment method permanently, you can select a different card just for one transaction. During checkout, PayPal will show you all the payment methods you have on file. Look for the payment method section and click or tap on the credit card you want to use for that purchase.
This option is useful if you want to keep your bank account as your default but occasionally use a credit card for specific purchases. You will need to make this selection every time you check out, since PayPal will return to your default method for the next transaction.
Remove your bank account if you no longer want it linked
If you want to remove your bank account from PayPal entirely, go to your Wallet and find the bank account in your list of payment methods. Click or tap the menu icon next to it and select Remove or Unlink. PayPal will ask you to confirm the removal. Once you confirm, the bank account is no longer connected to your account.
You can re-link the same bank account later if you change your mind. Removing a payment method does not affect any past transactions or your PayPal balance. If your credit card is set as your default, PayPal will use it for all future purchases after you remove your bank account.
Understand the fee differences between payment methods
PayPal charges different fees depending on which payment method you use. When you pay with a credit card or debit card, PayPal typically charges the merchant (the person or business receiving the money) a fee, but you as the buyer usually do not pay a fee for personal transfers. However, some merchants pass credit card fees to the buyer as a surcharge.
Payments from your bank account often have lower fees for merchants, which is why some businesses prefer bank transfers. If you are sending money to friends or family through PayPal's personal transfer feature, there is usually no fee regardless of which payment method you choose. If you are making a purchase from a business, the fee structure depends on the merchant's settings and the type of transaction.
Troubleshoot if your credit card is not appearing as an option
If you added a credit card but it is not showing up in your payment methods, the card may still be pending verification. PayPal requires a small test charge to confirm the card is valid. Check your email for a message from PayPal asking you to confirm the card or verify your identity. If you see that message, follow the link and complete the verification steps.
If you do not see a verification email, log into your PayPal account and go to your Wallet. Look for the card in your list — it may show a status like "Pending" or "Unconfirmed." Wait one to two business days for the verification to complete. If the card still does not appear after that time, try removing it and adding it again, making sure you enter all the information exactly as it appears on the card and your billing statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a credit card without removing my bank account?
Yes. You can keep both your bank account and credit card linked to PayPal at the same time. You can set the credit card as your default, choose it at checkout, or keep your bank account as the default and switch to the card only when you want to. Linking multiple payment methods gives you flexibility without forcing you to remove anything.
Will changing my payment method affect my PayPal balance or past transactions?
No. Changing which payment method you use going forward does not change your PayPal balance, transaction history, or any money you have already received. Past transactions remain exactly as they were. Only future purchases will use the new payment method you select.
What if my credit card is declined when I try to use it?
If PayPal tries to charge your credit card and it is declined, PayPal will notify you and ask you to update your payment method or try a different card. Some cards are declined because the card issuer does not recognize PayPal as a trusted merchant, so contact your credit card company to let them know you are using PayPal. You can also try adding the card again or using a different card.
How long does it take to verify a new credit card?
Verification usually takes one to two business days. PayPal charges a small amount (typically under $1) to your card and then credits it back. You can often use the card before verification is complete, but it is safer to wait for the confirmation email from PayPal before relying on it for a purchase.
Can I set different payment methods for different types of purchases?
PayPal does not let you create rules that automatically use different cards for different types of purchases. You can only set one default payment method. However, you can choose a different card at checkout each time, so you have full control over which card you use for each individual transaction.