As a fellow entrepreneur in Trinidad, I’ve mastered the ins and outs of using PayPal to streamline payments and grow a business in our unique market. Whether you’re a freelancer, creative, or small business owner, I’m here to guide you through the process of setting up PayPal, linking compatible cards, and ensuring you get paid easily and securely. Let’s simplify your payment journey and empower your business to thrive!If you’re in Trinidad and Tobago and want to use PayPal to receive payments, here’s how to set it up effectively. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. Create Your PayPal Account
- Step 1: Visit the PayPal website or download the app.
- Step 2: Select Sign Up, then choose a Personal or Business Account depending on your needs.
- For freelancers or individuals: Choose Personal Account.
- For businesses or side hustles: Choose Business Account.
- Step 3: Ensure Trinidad and Tobago is selected as your country when signing up.
💡 Pro Tip: This prevents account restrictions and issues when linking cards.
2. Link a Compatible Card
You’ll need a card or bank account to withdraw your PayPal funds in Trinidad and Tobago. Not all cards work, so here’s the updated 2025 list:
Supported Cards:
- Visa Debit Cards: JMMB, Venture Credit Union, or PSCU.
- Visa Credit Cards: Most local banks (except RBC).
Cards That Don’t Work:
- Linx Visa Debit.
- RBC Visa Credit Cards (blocked for PayPal use).
- Mastercards (not supported for Caribbean users).
How to Link Your Card:
- Log in to your PayPal account.
- Navigate to Wallet and select Link a Card or Bank.
- Enter your card details, including the card number, expiration date, and CVV.
💡 Add a small test balance to your card to handle PayPal verification charges (around $1.95 USD, refunded later).
3. Enable Automatic Transfers
What is Automatic Transfer?
In Trinidad and Tobago, PayPal mandates automatic transfers to your linked card. Once enabled, funds in your account are sent directly to your card.
How to Set It Up:
During the card linking process, PayPal will ask if you’d like to enable automatic transfers. Select Yes. If the option isn’t available, contact PayPal customer support to allow it to.
💡 Note: Transfers occur daily or weekly, depending on PayPal’s settings. Always monitor your linked card balance for incoming transfers
4. Test with a Small Transfer
Before receiving large payments, confirm your setup:
- Send yourself a small payment ($5-$10 USD) or ask a client to test a transaction.
- Check your linked card within 1-3 days for the deposit.
Troubleshooting:
- If the transfer fails, ensure your card supports international transactions.
- Contact PayPal support if issues persist.
Bonus Alternative: Use WiPay Colour App & Card
WiPay offers a seamless onboarding process tailored to local entrepreneurs:
- Step 1: Visit WiPay Caribbean and sign up for a business account.
- Step 2: Complete the KYC (Know Your Customer) process by submitting your ID, proof of address, and business documents.
- Step 3: Once verified, integrate WiPay into your website or use their invoicing tool for direct payments.
Adding The Colour Card To Your PayPal:
- Select Pay & Get Paid
- Click on Banks and Cards
- Under Credit & Debit Cards, Select “Link a Card”
- Enter in the Colour Card Number and Details
- Click “Link Card”
Download the Colour App from any of the app stores or you can download it from the Colour Website.
By including WiPay alongside PayPal, you provide flexibility to your clients and ensure smooth operations for your business. Whether it’s receiving international payments via PayPal or offering local convenience with WiPay, these tools empower Caribbean entrepreneurs to get paid and grow their ventures effectively.
