As of 2024/2025, minors under 18 are not legally permitted to open a PayPal account. PayPal’s terms of service strictly require users to be 18 years or older. While some underage users bypass this restriction by entering a false date of birth, doing so poses significant risks, including account suspension and loss of funds, especially in the event of disputes or verification requests.
For those under 18 looking to handle online transactions, there are safer, legal alternatives that cater to young users or allow for parental supervision. Here’s a detailed look at your options.
Why Minors Can’t Use PayPal Legally
PayPal is bound by financial and legal regulations that require all account holders to be of legal age to manage their own finances. This ensures accountability in cases of disputes, fraud, or verification issues.
Many minors bypass this by:
- Using a fake date of birth during registration.
- Ensuring consistent login from a single IP address and device.
- Avoiding activities that might flag their account for verification.
The Risk: If PayPal requests identification (often triggered by disputes or suspicious activity), the user cannot provide valid documentation, leading to account termination and loss of funds.
How to Use PayPal Legally as a Minor
If you’re under 18, the only legal way to access PayPal is through a parent or guardian’s account:
- Your parent/guardian creates a PayPal account in their name.
- They link their bank account or credit/debit card.
- You use the account under their supervision.
This ensures compliance with PayPal’s policies while allowing minors to conduct online transactions responsibly.
PayPal Alternatives for Minors
For those seeking alternatives, here are platforms designed for younger users or those that allow for supervised accounts:
1. Revolut <18
Revolut <18 is a financial app designed specifically for teens, offering tools for managing money with parental oversight.
Features:
- A Revolut <18 account linked to a parent/guardian’s Revolut account.
- Personalized debit card with customizable designs.
- Spending limits and real-time transaction tracking.
- Saving goals and financial education tools.
2. Cash App
Cash App allows users aged 13-17 to access its services with parental approval.
Features:
- Instant money transfers.
- Free Cash App card for purchases.
- Parental monitoring of transactions.
3. Venmo
Venmo, a PayPal subsidiary, supports family accounts for minors.
Features:
- Easy peer-to-peer payments.
- Venmo card for in-store and online purchases.
- Transaction monitoring by parents/guardians.
4. Greenlight
Greenlight is a financial app and debit card designed for kids and teens.
Features:
- Prepaid cards with parental controls.
- Spending, saving, and earning tracking.
- Chore and allowance management.
5. Step
Step provides free banking for teens with a focus on financial literacy.
Features:
- No fees and no minimum balance.
- Step Visa card for transactions.
- Builds credit history with parental approval.
6. FamZoo
FamZoo is a family banking app teaching financial responsibility.
Features:
- Prepaid cards for family members.
- Tracks spending and savings.
- Allows for budgeting and goal setting.
7. Zelle
Zelle is a quick money transfer platform integrated with many banks.
Features:
- Instant transfers between bank accounts.
- No fees for transactions.
Note: Requires a parent’s account for minors.
8. HyperJar
HyperJar is a budgeting app designed for families.
Features:
- Prepaid cards linked to spending jars.
- Financial planning tools for kids.
- No monthly fees.
Final Thoughts
While PayPal’s age restriction may seem inconvenient, there are plenty of legal alternatives available for minors. Whether you’re looking to save, spend, or receive money, these platforms provide safe, supervised options tailored to young users. If you’re under 18, using a parent’s account or one of the alternatives listed above ensures compliance with financial regulations while fostering financial responsibility.
Choose the option that best suits your needs and enjoy managing your money responsibly and securely!
