PayPal deducts a commission on every received transaction. For an online seller, freelancer or association, knowing the exact final amount after fee deduction is essential for correct pricing and margin protection.
PayPal applies a variable rate depending on the type of transaction and country. The standard rate for online commercial payments is around 3.49% + a fixed fee per transaction (2025 pricing). For micropayments, a specific rate applies. To receive exactly the desired amount, use the reverse formula to calculate the price to charge the client.
📐 Formula
Fees = Amount × rate% + fixed | Amount to charge = (Desired amount + fixed) / (1 - rate%)
📊 Reference table
| Transaction type | Rate (%) | Fixed fee | Example ($100) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard commercial payment | 3.49 % | $0.49 | $3.98 |
| Micropayment (< $10) | 6.00 % | $0.05 | $0.65 |
| Bank account transfer | 0 % | $0 | $0 |
| Credit card transfer | 3.49 % | $0.49 | $3.98 |
💡 Practical examples
Example 1: receive $150 net of fees
Amount to charge = (150 + 0.49) / (1 - 0.0349) ≈ $155.93. PayPal fees: $5.93. You receive exactly $150.
Example 2: e-commerce sale at $49.90
Fees = 49.90 × 3.49% + 0.49 = 1.74 + 0.49 = $2.23. You receive $47.67.
Example 3: include fees in your selling price
If you want $200 net, charge your client $207.69 to exactly cover standard PayPal fees.