September 17, 2025, 11:44 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Sending money via SMS, messenger, or email is set to become even easier. PayPal has introduced a new “Links” feature that enables direct payments with a single click—regardless of the chat platform. This eliminates the cumbersome exchange of email addresses for a transaction.
One-Time Links for Sending Money via PayPal
Starting now, PayPal users in the U.S. can create personalized payment links that can be integrated into any digital conversation. The goal is to make the payment process as universal and accessible as possible. Users open the PayPal app, enter the amount and an optional note, and receive a one-time-use link. This can be for a payment or a payment request.
The link can be shared anywhere—such as in a text message, a chat, or via email. The payment is exclusively intended for the specified recipient. The recipient clicks the link and either completes or accepts the payment within the PayPal app.
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PayPal is currently offering a €10 credit to select users.
Links Automatically Expire
The links are private and pertain only to a specific transaction. Other people besides the recipient and sender cannot use them. Unclaimed links automatically expire after ten days. Before expiration, reminders can be sent or links can be fully canceled—provided the recipient has not already claimed them.
As with traditional transactions via PayPal, users can also select the fee-free “Friends and Family” option for links. In the U.S., such payments are still not taxable according to PayPal. In Germany, they do not need to be taxed as long as they are a “monetary gift” and not taxable income.
Also of interest: PayPal Is Currently Giving Certain Users a 10 Euro Credit
For now, the feature is only available in the U.S., with the UK, Italy, and other markets to follow later this month. PayPal has not yet informed TECHBOOK when links will be available in Germany.
PayPal Plans Integration of Cryptocurrencies
Money transfers in the form of cryptocurrencies are also set to come to the PayPal app. In the U.S., users will soon be able to send Bitcoin, Ethereum, PYUSD, and other digital currencies directly through the app to PayPal, Venmo, or other compatible wallets worldwide.