How to Send Cryptocurrency Using PayPal

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In June 2025, PayPal made a significant update to its cryptocurrency services, allowing users to transfer digital assets they’ve purchased directly from their PayPal accounts to external digital wallets—including personal non-custodial wallets. This marked a pivotal shift in how mainstream users interact with crypto, bridging the gap between traditional finance and decentralized ecosystems. If you've ever wondered how to send cryptocurrency using PayPal, this guide walks you through every step clearly and securely.

Whether you're using a desktop or mobile device, the process is intuitive and designed with user experience in mind. Let’s explore how you can leverage PayPal's growing crypto functionality to take greater control of your digital assets.

Accessing Your PayPal Cryptocurrency Dashboard

To begin, log in to your PayPal account and navigate to the cryptocurrency section. The interface may vary slightly depending on whether you're using a desktop browser or the mobile app, but the core features remain consistent across platforms.

On Desktop:

Once logged in, look for the cryptocurrency icon located just below the "Send & Request" button on your homepage. Alternatively, click on the "Wallet" tab at the top of the screen, where you’ll find all your payment methods—including cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Bitcoin Cash.

On Mobile:

Open the PayPal app and tap your current balance at the top of the screen. You’ll see a dedicated section for crypto holdings, prominently displayed with large icons for each supported asset.

Each supported cryptocurrency has its own interactive tile. Tap on the one you wish to manage—say, Bitcoin—and you’ll be taken to a detailed view showing real-time pricing, market trends, and recent transaction history.

Sending Crypto From PayPal: Step-by-Step

Previously, PayPal only allowed users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies within its ecosystem. But now, with the addition of the “Transfer” button (featuring an arrow icon), users can send crypto out of PayPal to external wallets.

Here’s how:

  1. Select Your Cryptocurrency
    Choose the digital asset you want to transfer by tapping its tile.
  2. Click “Transfer”
    On the next screen, select “Transfer”—this opens up both sending and receiving options.
  3. Choose “Send”
    To move funds out of PayPal, tap “Send.”
  4. Enter Recipient Address
    Input the destination wallet address manually or scan a QR code. Double-check the address for accuracy—crypto transactions are irreversible.
  5. Confirm & Send
    Review the amount, network fees (if applicable), and recipient details before confirming the transaction.

It's important to note that while PayPal supports sending to external wallets, it currently only allows transfers of Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and Bitcoin Cash (BCH). Make sure your receiving wallet supports the same blockchain network.

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Why This Feature Matters

The ability to send cryptocurrency from PayPal to external wallets significantly enhances user autonomy. For years, critics argued that holding crypto in custodial accounts like PayPal meant users didn’t truly "own" their assets—echoing the popular crypto mantra: “Not your keys, not your coins.”

Now, with outbound transfers enabled, users can finally move their assets to self-custody wallets, hardware wallets, or decentralized applications (dApps). This fosters greater financial independence and aligns more closely with the principles of blockchain technology.

Moreover, this feature lowers the barrier to entry for everyday consumers. People who were previously hesitant to engage with crypto due to complexity can now use a familiar platform like PayPal to enter the space—and then transition their assets when ready.

Security Tips When Sending Crypto from PayPal

While the process is straightforward, security should always be a priority:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I send any cryptocurrency from PayPal?
A: Currently, only Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and Bitcoin Cash (BCH) can be transferred out of PayPal to external wallets.

Q: Are there fees for sending crypto from PayPal?
A: Yes. PayPal charges a network fee based on current congestion levels and transaction size. The exact amount is displayed before you confirm the transfer.

Q: How long does it take for crypto to arrive in my external wallet?
A: Most transfers complete within minutes, though processing times may vary depending on blockchain network traffic.

Q: Can I reverse a crypto transfer from PayPal?
A: No. Once confirmed, cryptocurrency transactions are final and cannot be reversed. Always verify recipient addresses carefully.

Q: Does PayPal support receiving crypto from external wallets?
A: Yes. You can receive crypto into your PayPal wallet by generating a QR code or sharing your public address via the “Receive” option.

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The Bigger Picture: Where Is PayPal Headed With Crypto?

PayPal’s evolution from a closed-loop buying/selling system to a platform enabling external transfers reflects broader industry trends toward interoperability and user empowerment. While it still maintains control over certain aspects—like which blockchains are supported and how transfers are processed—it’s clear that PayPal is responding to user demand for more flexibility.

This move could encourage other fintech companies to follow suit, further integrating traditional financial infrastructure with decentralized technologies.

For users, this means easier onboarding into the world of digital assets—with a trusted name acting as a bridge to more advanced crypto experiences.

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Core Keywords:

With these insights and practical steps, you’re now equipped to confidently send cryptocurrency using PayPal—expanding your control over your digital wealth while staying safe and informed.