Update 3/30/22: Seems like this option is now available at most places where Paypal is accepted. I’m seeing this work now on Walmart, Target, and many more. Quite a useful new option for draining prepaid cards, finishing spend requirements, etc. (Note: I checked the tax payments site and they don’t allow splitting.)
Original Post:
Paypal now allows payments to be split between cards at select merchants. I just bumped into this by mistake, seeing a ‘Split’ toggle option to split the charge. For example, on the Wikipedia donation page – after selecting Paypal as the payment option, the Paypal system let me split it between two cards. (The split is limited to two payment methods, no more.)
In theory this would be a game-changer for optimizers who like using up prepaid cards or spending an exact amount to meet a promo, etc. There are a few retailers like Dell and Apple who will allow split payments at checkout, but it’s few and far between; we track data points on this in our Payments Workshop. If Paypal would allow it, that would change everything since most online payments accept Paypal.
My best guess right now is that it’s up to each merchant to decide whether to allow splitting payments, and charities are the prime target to swallow the additional fees and allow it, whereas most retailers will not allow it due to the additional cost. Or it could be Paypal only allows it at charities for security measures.
In all likelihood this option will continue to be a highly limited, not available for most Paypal checkouts, but it’s worth knowing that this exists and keeping in mind. Please let us know if/where you see the Paypal splitting option, especially if you notice it at any regular retailers.
Update: List of retailers that allow splitting:
- Paypal Digital Gifts
- AliExpress
- Cashstar
- Bestbuy.com
- Walmart.com
- Target.com
Source: doctorofcredit.com