I've used PayPal for most transactions when receiving money online, and definitely for buying. PayPal will safely encrypt your transaction, while offering the safety of the PayPal Protection program. This will cover you in case of any loss or scam up to a certain dollar amount, while shrouding your credit card and bank account numbers from any online thieves.

PayPal couldn't be easier to use. It just involves you logging into your account and providing the payment method. I usually opt to use a credit card, since I will also be protected by the credit card that I use in addition to PayPal.

1. PayPal will encrypt your payment, so others can't see what you're doing and steal your information.
2. The PayPal Protection Policy will allow you to have some extra security on your payment in case the seller doesn't send the item, or if it gets lost.
3. You can easily receive payments from businesses, or from someone you know.
   
4. It's an easy way to add a checkout feature to your website. It can be set up in minutes.
5. Payments are instant, so you no longer have to wait for the check.
6. The rate of commission PayPal charges is relatively reasonable, around 3%.
   
7. No more dealing with cashing checks, or waiting for them to clear.
8. Your banking information will remain private. No more checking account numbers floating around.
9. You're more likely to receive business if you accept PayPal. Online shoppers feel more secure and trust the PayPal symbol. Having it will surely increase your sales.
10. PayPal will help resolve any claims or disputes that buyers have against you, in the odd occassion that it happens. Keep all of your receipts for delivery confirmation when shipping an item and require insurance for the buyer and you will be okay.
11. It's greener than paper. Less paper waste and delivery time means less paper consumed.
    
12. It's free. Setting up a PayPal account costs no money.
    

It's basic for the most part to use PayPal, but there are some things to consider when using it. They do require a bank account to set up an account. I would recommend using a savings account instead of a checking, so the account will not receive "insufficient funds" fees if the account has been drained. I would also recommend always changing the funding to a credit card if possible. PayPal will try to do everything to convince you to use cash, but it's in your own best interests to use a credit card. Not only will you have extra protection of your own card, but you won't have to worry about keeping track of how much money is in your bank account. Always change the funding source before payment to your credit card (if this is the payment method you prefer).

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