How To Pay Amazon with PayPal: A Definitive Guide

Regrettably, you cannot directly pay for Amazon purchases using PayPal at checkout. Amazon and PayPal, once fierce competitors under the same ownership umbrella, maintain separate payment ecosystems. However, there are clever workarounds to achieve your goal of using your PayPal balance or credit to fund your Amazon shopping spree. This guide unveils these methods with the expertise of a seasoned e-commerce veteran.

Bridging the Gap: Indirect Methods to Use PayPal on Amazon

While a direct PayPal option is absent, don’t despair! These alternative routes will let you leverage your PayPal funds to fuel your Amazon acquisitions.

Method 1: The PayPal Cash Card

The PayPal Cash Card (a debit Mastercard) acts as a bridge between your PayPal account and the Amazon checkout. It’s essentially a debit card linked directly to your PayPal balance.

• How it works: Apply for a PayPal Cash Card through your PayPal account. Once approved, you’ll receive a physical card in the mail. Simply add funds to your PayPal balance (from your bank account, linked credit card, or directly from others). When making a purchase on Amazon, use your PayPal Cash Card like any other debit card at checkout.
• Pros: Straightforward, widely accepted by merchants that take Mastercard, and lets you spend your PayPal balance easily.
• Cons: Requires applying for and receiving a physical card, and may take time to arrive in the mail.

Method 2: PayPal Key

The PayPal Key is a virtual credit card linked to your PayPal account, and is accepted everywhere Mastercard is, including Amazon.

• How it works: If available in your location (it is gradually being rolled out), activate PayPal Key within your PayPal account. This generates a unique virtual card number, expiration date, and CVV. Use these details at the Amazon checkout as if it were a regular credit card.
• Pros: No physical card required, instant access after activation, secure as it masks your actual credit card details.
• Cons: Availability varies depending on your location, sometimes is not available in certain markets.

Method 3: PayPal Business Debit Mastercard

If you operate a PayPal Business account, you’re eligible for a PayPal Business Debit Mastercard. This functions similarly to the PayPal Cash Card but is specifically designed for business users.

• How it works: Apply for the card through your PayPal Business account. Once approved, use it like any other debit card on Amazon, drawing funds directly from your PayPal Business balance.
• Pros: Seamless for businesses already using PayPal for transactions, allows separation of business and personal finances.
• Cons: Only available to PayPal Business account holders.

Method 4: Buying Amazon Gift Cards with PayPal

This is a classic workaround. Purchase Amazon gift cards using your PayPal balance from reputable online retailers that accept PayPal. Then, redeem the gift card on your Amazon account and use it to pay for your purchases.

• How it works: Find a reputable retailer (like eGifter, CardCash, or even directly from PayPal’s digital gifts section, if available) that sells Amazon gift cards and accepts PayPal. Purchase the gift card using your PayPal funds. Receive the gift card code and redeem it in your Amazon account under “Gift Cards” and then under “Redeem a Gift Card.”
• Pros: Widely accessible, allows you to control spending, often available in various denominations.
• Cons: Requires an extra step, potential for slight markups on gift card prices.

Method 5: Link PayPal to a Cash-Back Credit Card and Use That Card on Amazon

This involves adding your PayPal balance to a credit card that rewards cashback on Amazon purchases.

• How it works: Link your PayPal account to a credit card that provides cashback rewards or points specifically for Amazon purchases (e.g., the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card). Then, fund your purchases with the credit card that is linked to your PayPal account.
• Pros: Earn cashback rewards on your Amazon purchases while utilizing your PayPal balance indirectly.
• Cons: Requires owning a suitable credit card, relies on credit availability and responsible usage.

Navigating Potential Roadblocks and Optimizing Your Experience

While these methods offer solutions, be aware of potential limitations.

• Fees: Be mindful of any transaction fees charged by PayPal or the third-party retailer selling gift cards. Some PayPal products also have associated fees, especially for international transactions or currency conversions.
• Security: Only purchase gift cards from reputable sources to avoid scams. Always check for valid SSL certificates (HTTPS) on websites before entering your payment information.
• Availability: Certain methods, like PayPal Key, might not be available in all regions. Verify eligibility before relying on a specific approach.

By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use your PayPal funds on Amazon while mitigating any potential risks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why Doesn’t Amazon Accept PayPal Directly?

The historical rivalry between Amazon and PayPal’s parent company, eBay, is a key factor. Amazon developed its own payment processing system (Amazon Pay), creating a competitive landscape that made direct PayPal integration unlikely.

2. Is the PayPal Cash Card Accepted Everywhere?

The PayPal Cash Card is accepted anywhere that accepts Mastercard. This includes the vast majority of online and brick-and-mortar retailers, including Amazon.

3. How Long Does It Take to Get a PayPal Cash Card?

The processing and delivery time for a PayPal Cash Card typically range from 7 to 10 business days.

4. Can I Reload My PayPal Cash Card at Any Store?

You can typically add funds to your PayPal balance through linked bank accounts, credit cards, or cash at participating retailers, and then that balance will be available on your PayPal Cash Card.

5. What is PayPal Key, and How Do I Get It?

PayPal Key is a virtual card that lets you use your PayPal balance wherever Mastercard is accepted online. Eligibility varies by region and account type. Check your PayPal account for availability.

6. Are There Any Fees Associated with Using PayPal Key?

Generally, there are no additional fees for using PayPal Key beyond standard PayPal transaction fees (if applicable, such as for currency conversions).

7. Is It Safe to Buy Amazon Gift Cards with PayPal?

Yes, if you purchase from reputable retailers like eGifter or CardCash, or from PayPal directly if they offer gift cards. Avoid unverified websites or individuals offering steep discounts, as these could be scams.

8. Can I Use PayPal to Buy Digital Amazon Gift Cards?

Yes, many online retailers that sell Amazon gift cards offer digital delivery, meaning you’ll receive the gift card code instantly via email after paying with PayPal.

9. What Happens If My PayPal Payment Fails When Buying an Amazon Gift Card?

This usually indicates an issue with your PayPal account balance, linked funding source, or security settings. Check your PayPal account for any notifications or restrictions and try again with an alternative payment method.

10. Can I Use PayPal Credit to Buy Amazon Gift Cards?

Yes, if the retailer selling the Amazon gift card accepts PayPal Credit as a payment option. Check their payment options at checkout.

11. If I Return an Item I Bought on Amazon Using a PayPal Cash Card, Where Does the Refund Go?

The refund will typically be credited back to your PayPal balance, which is linked to your PayPal Cash Card.

12. What are the Alternatives to PayPal for Paying on Amazon?

Besides the methods described above, you can use Amazon gift cards purchased with cash, credit cards (directly at Amazon checkout), Amazon Store Card, or Amazon Pay, if you are purchasing from a third-party retailer that accepts Amazon Pay.