How to Calculate PayPal Fees (and What You'll Actually Receive)
PayPal's cut isn't a flat percentage — it's a percentage plus a fixed fee, and the rate depends on the payment type and country. Here's how the math works and how to reverse it so an invoice nets you the exact amount you want.
Last updated: July 2026
PayPal typically charges 3.49% + $0.49 for US commercial payments, deducted before the money reaches you. To receive an exact target amount, invoice ask = (target + 0.49) / (1 − 0.0349). The free PayPal Fee Calculator runs both directions instantly with presets for common rates.
Calculate PayPal fees on any payment — see the fee, what you'll receive, or how much to request to net a target amount. Free, instant, in-browser.
Step by step
- Open the free PayPal Fee Calculator.
- Enter the payment amount and pick the fee preset that matches your account.
- Read the fee and the net amount you'll receive.
- Or switch to "I want to receive" to see how much to invoice.
How PayPal fees are structured
A typical commercial rate is a percentage of the payment (e.g. 3.49% in the US) plus a fixed fee per transaction (e.g. $0.49). International payments add a cross-border percentage, and micropayment accounts trade a higher percentage for a lower fixed fee. Friends-and-family transfers funded by bank or balance are usually free in the same country.
The reverse calculation
If you need to net an exact amount, you can't just add the percentage to your target — the fee applies to the gross. Solve ask = (target + fixed) / (1 − rate). For a $100 target at 3.49% + $0.49 that's $104.12, not $103.98.
Rates change — check yours
PayPal adjusts rates by country, account type and payment method. Use the calculator's custom mode with the exact rate from your PayPal fee page when precision matters.
FAQ
Does the calculator cover international payments?
Yes — pick the international preset or enter your exact cross-border rate in custom mode.
Why is the effective fee higher on small payments?
The fixed $0.49 looms large on small amounts — on a $5 payment it's nearly 10% before the percentage is even applied.
Is any of this sent to PayPal?
No — it's pure math in your browser; nothing is uploaded anywhere.
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