Last updated: March 5, 2026
When trying to make a payment through PayPal, the transaction may fail, get declined, or show an error message. This can happen when paying on websites, sending money to friends, or making purchases through the PayPal app.
Insufficient funds: Your PayPal balance, linked bank account, or card may not have enough funds.
Unverified account: PayPal may limit unverified accounts from making certain transactions.
Card expired or incorrect details: Your linked payment method may have expired or have incorrect information.
Security flags: PayPal may flag the transaction as suspicious and block it for security.
Merchant issues: The seller's PayPal account may have issues receiving payments.
Spending limits: Your account may have reached its sending or receiving limit.
• Log into PayPal and check your balance.
• Go to Wallet and verify your linked cards and bank accounts.
• Make sure at least one payment method has sufficient funds.
• Remove expired cards and add updated ones.
• Go to PayPal Settings > Account > Verify your identity.
• You may need to confirm your email, phone number, and link a bank account.
• Verified accounts have higher sending limits and fewer restrictions.
• Log into PayPal > Go to the Resolution Center.
• Check if there are any pending actions or limitations on your account.
• Follow the steps PayPal provides to resolve any limitations.
• During checkout, click "Change" next to your payment method.
• Select a different card or bank account.
• If using PayPal balance, try linking a card directly instead.
• If paying on a website, clear your browser cache and cookies.
• Try using a different browser or incognito/private mode.
• Disable browser extensions that might interfere with the payment page.
• Go to the App Store or Google Play Store.
• Update PayPal to the latest version.
• Try the payment again through the updated app.
If payments continue to fail, contact PayPal support at paypal.com/smarthelp/contact-us. You can also call PayPal's customer service number or use the in-app chat feature for immediate assistance.
Q: Why does PayPal say "This transaction cannot be completed"?
A: This can happen for several reasons: insufficient funds, account limitations, or the merchant's account has issues. Check your payment methods and account status first.
Q: Can I still receive payments if my account is limited?
A: It depends on the type of limitation. Some limitations only affect sending money, while others may also prevent receiving. Check your Resolution Center for details.
Q: How long does it take to lift a PayPal limitation?
A: It varies. If you provide the required documents promptly, it can be resolved within 1-3 business days. More complex issues may take up to a week.
Q: Why does my payment fail only on certain websites?
A: Some websites have specific PayPal integration issues. Try paying directly through PayPal's website instead of through the merchant's checkout page. You can also try the "Send Money" feature if paying an individual.