Amazon does not accept PayPal as a direct payment method at checkout
You cannot select PayPal as a payment option when you buy something on Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk. Amazon's checkout page does not include PayPal in its list of accepted payment methods, and this is a business decision between the two companies rather than a technical limitation.
If you want to use PayPal funds to buy from Amazon, you have two real paths: transfer money from PayPal to your bank account and then add that bank account to Amazon, or use a PayPal debit card if you have one. Neither method links PayPal directly to Amazon the way you might link a credit card.
Key Takeaways
- Amazon's checkout does not offer PayPal as a payment choice, so you cannot connect the two accounts directly.
- You can transfer money from PayPal to your bank account (usually within one to three business days) and then add that bank account to Amazon as a payment method.
- If you have a PayPal debit card, you can add it to Amazon just like any other debit card, and the card will pull from your PayPal balance.
- Transferring to your bank account is free; PayPal debit cards have no fee to use at Amazon but may have monthly or ATM fees depending on your account type.
Transfer PayPal funds to your bank account, then add that account to Amazon
This is the most common workaround. Log into your PayPal account on a computer or the PayPal app. On the home screen, look for a button or menu labeled "Transfer Money" or "Move Money." Select "Transfer to Your Bank." PayPal will ask you which bank account to send the money to — you must have already added a bank account to PayPal for this to work. If you have not, you will need to add one first by providing your routing number and account number.
Enter the amount you want to transfer. PayPal transfers are free and usually arrive within one to three business days, though occasionally they take longer. Once the money lands in your bank account, log into Amazon, go to "Your Account," select "Your Payments," and choose "Add a Payment Method." Select "Bank Account" and enter your routing number and account number. Amazon will then deposit two small amounts (usually under one dollar each) into that account within a few days. You will need to verify those amounts by logging back into Amazon and confirming the deposits — this confirms you own the account.
Use a PayPal debit card if you have one
PayPal offers a debit card that draws directly from your PayPal balance. If you have applied for and received a PayPal debit card, you can add it to Amazon the same way you would add any other debit card. Go to "Your Account," then "Your Payments," then "Add a Payment Method," and select "Debit or Credit Card." Enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV from your PayPal card.
When you use this card at Amazon checkout, the charge comes directly from your PayPal balance. There is no fee to use the card at Amazon itself. However, PayPal debit cards may carry other fees — some accounts charge a monthly maintenance fee, and using the card at an ATM that is not in PayPal's network may cost money. Check your specific card agreement to see what fees explore to your account type.
What information you need before you start
If you are transferring to your bank account, you will need your bank's routing number and your account number. You can find both on a check, or call your bank and ask. You will also need to know how much money you want to transfer from PayPal.
If you are using a PayPal debit card, you will need the card number, expiration date, and three-digit security code (CVV) on the back of the card. Make sure your PayPal balance has enough money to cover your Amazon purchase, or that your card is linked to a bank account within PayPal that can cover the charge.
Why Amazon and PayPal do not work together at checkout
Amazon has its own payment processing system and prefers to keep checkout within that system. PayPal is a separate payment processor with its own fees and agreements. Rather than pay PayPal's fees to process transactions, Amazon chose to accept credit cards, debit cards, bank accounts, and Amazon's own store card directly.
This is not unusual — many large retailers do the same thing. Walmart, Target, and Best Buy also do not accept PayPal at checkout, even though PayPal is one of the largest payment processors in the world. The decision is made by each retailer based on cost and business strategy, not on technical ability.
Timing and fees for each method
| Method | Time to use funds at Amazon | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer to bank account | 1–3 business days (plus 1–2 days for Amazon to verify deposits) | Free | Large purchases where you do not need to buy when ready |
| PayPal debit card | when ready | No fee at Amazon; other fees may explore depending on card type | Quick purchases when you have the card in hand |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I link my PayPal account directly to Amazon?
No. Amazon does not accept PayPal as a payment method at checkout. You can only use PayPal funds indirectly by transferring money to your bank account or by using a PayPal debit card.
How long does it take to transfer money from PayPal to my bank account?
Standard transfers take one to three business days. PayPal also offers an when ready transfer option for a small fee (usually around one percent of the amount transferred). Check PayPal's current rates when you initiate the transfer.
Do I need a PayPal debit card to use PayPal funds at Amazon?
No. You can transfer money to your bank account instead, which is free. A debit card is faster if you have one, but the bank transfer method works just as well and costs nothing.
What happens if I add my bank account to Amazon but do not verify the deposits?
Amazon will not let you use that bank account for purchases until you verify the two small deposits PayPal sent. You must log back into Amazon within a set timeframe (usually 30 days) and confirm the amounts to complete the verification.
Can I use PayPal Credit at Amazon?
No. PayPal Credit is a separate product and Amazon does not accept it. You would need to transfer funds from PayPal Credit to your PayPal balance first, then transfer to your bank account or use a PayPal debit card.