How to Use PayPal on Amazon: 4 Easy Workarounds That Actually Work
If you’ve ever tried using PayPal on Amazon, you’ve probably realized it’s not an option. But don’t worry—there are some clever workarounds that allow you to use PayPal for Amazon purchases. Here’s everything you need to know to make it work.
Why Doesn’t Amazon Accept PayPal?
The short answer is that PayPal and Amazon are indirect competitors. PayPal was once owned by eBay, which is a direct rival of Amazon. Even now, with PayPal as a standalone company, Amazon promotes its own payment service, Amazon Pay. Allowing PayPal as an option would give a boost to a competing platform.
How to Use PayPal on Amazon
Although you can’t pay Amazon directly with your PayPal balance, there are a few easy workarounds to make it happen. Pick the option that works best for you:
1. Use a PayPal Cash Card
The PayPal Cash Card is essentially a debit card linked directly to your PayPal balance. It’s accepted anywhere that takes Mastercard, which includes Amazon. Using this method is straightforward:
- Load your PayPal balance.
- Add items to your Amazon cart.
- At checkout, select “Pay with Debit or Credit Card”.
- Enter your PayPal Cash Card details.
Keep in mind that you’ll need a sufficient PayPal balance before making a purchase.
2. Try the PayPal Business Debit Mastercard
If you’re a business owner, the PayPal Business Debit Mastercard is another option. Like the PayPal Cash Card, it uses your PayPal balance and operates via the Mastercard network. To get this card, you’ll need to:
- Create and verify a PayPal business account.
- Link your business bank account.
- Apply for the Business Debit Mastercard.
Once you have the Mastercard, you can use it as a debit card on Amazon.
3. Buy Amazon Gift Cards Using PayPal
Yes, you can use PayPal to buy Amazon gift cards through third-party platforms like Walmart.com, eGifter, or My Gift Card Supply. Here’s how it works:
- Go to a site that sells Amazon gift cards and accepts PayPal.
- Purchase the gift card using your PayPal account.
- Receive the gift card code via email.
- Redeem the code on Amazon by going to Your Account → Gift Cards → Redeem.
This method is particularly useful for smaller purchases or gifting purposes.
4. Use a PayPal Key
The PayPal Key is a virtual Mastercard that links directly to your PayPal funds. It’s simple to set up:
- Log in to PayPal and go to the PayPal Key setup page.
- Click “Let’s Go” and select a payment method (PayPal balance, linked bank account, etc.).
- Receive a virtual card number, expiration date, and CVV.
- Enter this virtual card info at Amazon checkout.
Since it’s virtual, there’s no physical card to keep track of, making it a secure and hassle-free option.
What NOT to Do
Avoid these mistakes when trying to use PayPal for Amazon purchases:
- Don’t expect to use PayPal Credit directly. Amazon doesn’t support it.
- Don’t rely on unverified third-party vendors. They may have hidden fees or risks.
- Don’t forget about gift card balance limits. For larger purchases, you might need multiple gift cards.
Key Takeaways
- Amazon doesn’t directly accept PayPal, but you can use workarounds like the PayPal Cash Card or Business Debit Mastercard.
- You can also buy Amazon gift cards or use a PayPal Key to shop on Amazon.
- While these alternatives take a few extra steps, they’re secure and reliable options for using your PayPal balance on Amazon.
Conclusion
While Amazon doesn’t directly support PayPal, it’s still possible to use your PayPal funds for Amazon purchases through the methods outlined above. Whether you opt for a PayPal card, a gift card, or a virtual PayPal Key, you can make it work with minimal hassle.
With a little planning, you can continue using PayPal as your go-to payment method, even on Amazon.
