How Can a Student Start an Online Business?

How Can a Student Start an Online Business?

I remember joining the university in 2016; my family could only pay for my school fee and accommodation; everything else was a privilege every time I received it.   So, I started several businesses to relieve my mother’s pressure on financing me. Some failed, some succeeded. I know the pinch, so today I’m sharing this article … Read more

Which Online Business Can I Do As A Student?

Which Online Business Can I Do As A Student?

Being a student is quite expensive and stressful. You’re probably one of those accumulating student debt and thinking about how they’ll clear it?  On the other hand, you want to live comfortably in school without making your parents sell the earth so as to afford your allowances, right? Sadly, the allowance they give you isn’t … Read more

How Do I Get Noticed On Upwork? Buy More Connects!

Start Bidding

You have an excellent profile. Superb skills, but no jobs yet. You wonder, “How do I get noticed on Upwork?” First, are you bidding! Days when Upwork used to give 60 free connects are gone and forgotten. Today, you have to buy connects. At least, for a new account, they will give you 20 free … Read more

Earn Money Online And Get Paid Through Mpesa: In only 1 Minute!

Earn Money Online And Get Paid Through Mpesa

Although online jobs have been there for long, their demand since the start of COVID-19 pandemic has been high. At least, if you can write in grammar and speak in fluent English, you can earn money online and get paid through mpesa, in one minute! You can choose to do article writing, blogging, marketing products online for … Read more

Ranking Factors on Google: The Ultimate Factors You Must Never Ignore!

Ranking Factors

Most website owners always wonder why their self-hosted WordPress blogs are not ranking. Well, what you must know today is that there are many ranking factors on Google. Implementing one of them or just a few may cause your site not to rank well. What’s the secret, then? Implementing all of them (if possible) is … Read more

Step By Step Guide On How To Create A Free WordPress Website

Free WordPress Blog

Maybe you’re just starting your freelance career. Or, you’ve been in this industry for long. However, it has been hard for you to launch a website to showcase your skills and portfolio online. Saving the cash for hosting and the domain name has been a challenge. Well, you can create a free WordPress website.

Really?

Yes, you can own a website without paying any hosting fee.

This article provides a simple step-by-step guide on how to create a WordPress website.

You create a WordPress Website for beginners by picking a free or paid site. To elaborate, you make a WordPress site in 5 easy steps by adding the domain name, naming the site plus logo inclusion, adding pages, confirming your address, and publishing posts. The best WordPress theme is Twenty Twenty.

How Do I Create a WordPress Website for Beginners?

As a beginner, some aspects influence your decisions when jumping into something. The same applies here. So, before creating a WordPress website, you should understand some things as discussed below.

  • You need to have a subdomain of WordPress. That means that your blog site address will have a wordpress.com as part of its extension instead of .com or .ke. For instance, “petcorner.wordpress.com” in place of “petcorner.com.”
  • You will have less customization and control over what you can do on your website.
  • WordPress will feature Ads on your site, but you will not receive any compensation.
  • Unfortunately, you cannot upload new plugins or monetize your blog!
  • You can import content from a blogger or other CMS.
  • You can move your content to a WordPress.org website without losing your current traffic.

With this in your mind, let’s now dive in.

How Do You Make a WordPress Site in 5 Easy Steps?

The first step on how to create a free WordPress website is signing up on WordPress.com. To do this, you need to visit http://wordpress.com, then click the “Get started” icon.

Get started icon : create a free WordPress website

Next, wait for redirection to the signup page. Once there, fill the signup form with relevant details, including: 

  • The email address you wish to use
  • Your password

Tip: Save the details somewhere in case your memory erases them.

When done, click the “create your account” icon.

Free 2

If you wish, you can also create using a Gmail account. With that, click, “continue with Google” button.

I would, however, go for the former option instead of the latter.

Enter the Domain Name of the Free website You Want To Create

When you click the create account button, a new page asks you to enter the domain name of the site you wish to create.

Free 3

Many trainees get confused when they get to this point. While various options ask you to pay for the domain, it doesn’t mean you have to pick that option. Right?

So, once you enter the domain name you wish to use, look around for the “Free” option.

Hint: Let the domain name hint to your readers, followers, and potential buyers what your site is all about. Here’s what I am saying. If the site deals with, for example, healthmatters, it would not make sense to have “marypeterwriter” domain name. This domain name is good if you want to market yourself as a writer and probably, share tactics of becoming a top-notch writer.

A domain name like “yourhealthmatters” is suitable for a health niche site. So, get things right when selecting the domain name.

Then, click on “Select. “

Well, what pops up next is another screenshot asking you the hosting plan you wish to choose. Or if you want the free option. We are sure we need the free one. Therefore, not unless you want to start a self-hosted site, click on the “start with a free site” option.

Before we work on anything else, let’s choose a theme for our site. You can use any theme, but I suggest you use the Twenty Twenty Theme. Another theme that I have come to love is the Generate Press. A good one! This is the theme I am using for nearly all my sites. But for now, let’s use the Twenty Twenty theme. 

Let’s head to the “themes” option.

Theme

Search for the Twenty Twenty Theme and click on it. Go ahead and “Activate” it.

We are now good to get started. Here’s where the actual task is when you want to create a free WordPress website.

Click on the “get started” option so as to create the pages we need and add all the other necessary information.

Get started

Name Your Site, Add logo, Site Title, and Tagline

The next step is naming your site. Therefore, click on the “Name your site” option and give it a name.

Name your site

In the following dialogue box, add the site title, logo, tagline, and every other detail as guided below.

For the site title, retain what you had, “Wellnessstrategies.” The tagline is the word or phrase that people can use to tag the site.

site title

A logo is a symbol used to identify your site. It must be unique to avoid getting accused of plagiarism.

It is not a must you add a logo, though. But we need to do everything professionally, right? So, just come up with something simple and add it there.

Remember, a logo ought to be small in size to fit in the area provided.

Once you click the logo option, you will be asked to confirm if you really want to leave that page. If you do, the changes you have made will not get saved. No trouble, just proceed with the logo. We can always come back to this page later once we are through with the logo.

Thus, this is where you will get redirected to:

select logo

I believe you have already created a logo. Once done, save it. 

Next, click on the “Select logo” option.

I have added the logo. This is what you should see if you have added it.

I would recommend you don’t check the “Display Site Title and Tagline” box. Since it is automatically checked, uncheck it.

Then save the changes. The saving option is above the logo, not below.

Afterward, click on the “X” to close that pop-up you are seeing.

You will get redirected to the “Update your Homepage” page. Click on the “Edit Homepage” option.

Again, you will get redirected to another page and see a “Welcome to your website” pop-up. Click on “Next.” Another pop-up, “Add or edit Your Content,” will appear.

Again, click ‘Next“.

Still, another pop-up, “Preview your site as you go. “ Click “Get started. “

This is what you should see.

New site

Once you scroll down, you will see around three ‘Example Posts’ drop-downs. Every time you create a free WordPress website, you will see these samples. We will delete them and add our content.

Example Post

You can choose to delete them first or later.

For us, we will work on that later.

Add Pages

So, right now, let’s head to the “Block Editor SideBar“; icon shown below.

On clicking that icon, a drop-down appears. Click on “All Pages” to add the pages you wish. You can have various pages, such as Home Page, About Us page, Blog Page, and Contact Page.

You may have more pages if you wish, according to what you wish to have there.

In our case, we will only add “Blog,” “About Us,” Contact Us,” and “Home” Pages. Therefore, click on “All Pages.”

You should be able to see all four pages.

a. About Us page

We will start with the “About Us” page.

I believe you already have content for this. I suggest you have around 300 words. Tell the world about yourself, including:

  • Why you started the site
  • What they should expect from you
  • Why should they follow you, and the like

Click on the “About” option to add the content.

You will find content there. Delete it and add yours. Also, there will be an option for adding your profile photo. I suggest you get one that makes you look like a professional. Don’t include a “busy” background. But, what is a busy background?

This is a background with buildings, vehicles, trees, playing children, and the like!

Have a plain background like what we have in the sample profile photo (in the screenshot below). Nonetheless, don’t add a black and white photo. Let it be a colored profile photo. A smile won’t do you any harm. In contrast, it makes your readers feel “at home”!

Create free a WordPress website

Click on the “Replace” option to change the profile photo. Once all is in order, save the changes.

Next, click on “Update. “

b. Contact Us Page

Head back to the block editor sidebar and click on the “Blog” option. It is time to work on the contact us page; click on that option.

You will get notified that the changes you made might not be lost. Fret not; there are no unsaved changes (if you updated the previous changes). Therefore, proceed.

On the “Contact Us” page, don’t have too much content. Something brief like:

“Is there any way we could help you?

No trouble, just get in touch using the form below. Alternatively, you could use our social media handle.

What are you waiting for? Somebody is waiting to help you!”

Disclaimer:

Don’t copy exactly what I have here. That is plagiarism, and Google will soon be on your neck! 🙂

Next, add an image with some social media icons.

Create free a WordPress website

As you can see, I have added the image and links to my social media accounts. Plus, the link to my free site (homepage), wellnessstrategies.

You may now click on “Update” to save the changes. Head on to the “Homepage” and replace the image as we did on the “blog” page.

As per our site, we are done updating our pages. If, however, you want to add more pages, click on the “Add new page” option.

Create free a WordPress website

If you do not intend to add another page, pick the “Blog” option.

Before we delete the “Example Posts,” let’s replace the image we have there.

I recommend you have an image relating to your blog’s content.

For instance, if you are a diet blogger, look for a balanced diet image.

Click the “replace” option to add a new image. Have a catchy, large image that fits well. I would also suggest you add content on that home page. Like the “About Us” page, add about 300 words on this page.

Here, you could talk about the niche/products you will be offering on the site. Also, encourage your visitors to explore your site further for more information.

Once done, click on “Update” changes.

Congratulations! Start publishing the content. How do I go about this? You ask!

Let me guide you, but before that, we should launch the site.

Confirm Your Email Address and Launch the Site 

To post on your free WordPress site, you must verify your website by confirming your email address. This action confirms that you’re a human being and not a robot. So, head on to your inbox – of the email you used to sign up – and click the link to activate your blog successfully.

Create free a WordPress website

Now click on the block editor sidebar again. Select “All pages.” Proceed and click on the “My Site” option.

Create free a WordPress website

Before proceeding, we need to launch the site. The world doesn’t know we have a site yet.

Therefore, click on the “Coming Soon” option.

Create free a WordPress website

On the page that pops up, click on “Launch Site.” You will be requested to enter the address you wish to use.

We don’t need that now. So, click on the “Skip purchase” option.

On the new page that pops up, click “continue to my free site“ to launch the site.

Publish Your First Post

On the drop-down that appears, click on “site” then “posts.

Create free a WordPress website

When you create a free WordPress blog, you will see the ‘Example Posts”. Delete them.

Create free a WordPress website

Now, click on the “Add Post” option to start publishing.

How do I do this? 

Copy your content from Microsoft Word and paste it here. As a professional writer, I believe you have proofread, corrected all grammatical errors, and eliminated any plagiarism.

Now format the content the same way you published on ThriveGlobal, LinkedIn, or Medium (if you are my trainee). Remember to add links, images, and the featured image on every post you want to publish.

That is it!

You now have your free website.

Create a self-hosted site once you are stable and sure of the niche you want to stick to. Remember, the primary purpose of creating this site is to ensure that your readers see your proficiency and hire you, right?

Ensure you do optimum customization after creating a fantastic article.

Also, ensure that you add links with high domain authority as well as high-quality images.

How?

Here’s a step-by-step Guide on how to publish and optimize your post(s) so that it looks professional.

Even so, don’t be deceived. A free website cannot give you some clients.

A self-hosted will!! Therefore, when you are financially able, go for a self-hosted site.

What Is the Best WordPress Theme?

The best theme to use is the Twenty Twenty Theme. This theme is easy to use and makes your website appear elegant. Nevertheless, there are other superb themes like Astra, and Divi that are ideal for many functions.

Let’s look at these three themes a bit more.

Twenty Twenty: The Best WordPress Theme

This is one of the most popular themes in the market today. This theme is the latest theme by WordPress built as an upgrade of Chaplin. Its primary purpose is to make websites fast loading with minimal coding.

Additionally, this theme comes with an intuitive drag-and-drop page builder, which allows you to create beautiful pages without any knowledge of HTML or CSS. You can also customize its appearance using various plugins.

Astra: A Powerful, Fast-Loading Theme

If you want something different from what Twenty Twenty offers, then Astra might be what you need. With Astra, you get all the features of a professional theme plus some extra ones as well. For example, you will find a powerful visual editor that lets you easily edit images, videos, text, and more.

Moreover, you have access to tons of prebuilt layouts, so you don’t even need to build them yourself. Also, Astra supports WooCommerce, Jetpack, Google Fonts, and more.

Divi: A Responsive, Multi-Purpose Website Builder

Another great option if you prefer building your site rather than buying a readymade template is Divi. If you do not know how to code HTML or CSS, this theme is perfect. It provides everything you need to start creating stunning sites right away.

Additionally, its built-in visual editor helps you design anything you wish.

Plus, you can add unlimited sections, columns, rows, sliders, galleries, buttons, widgets, shortcodes, and more. All you need to do is select the elements you would like to include and click the “Add Element” button. Then simply place them where you desire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Design a Website for Free?

You can design a website for free but expect lesser features and customizability. Consider using an online service like WordPress, Squarespace, or Wix that allows you to create your site without knowing HTML code.

These services offer templates and themes, so you don’t have to start from scratch when designing your new site.

Can I Make a WordPress Website Without Hosting?

You can make a WordPress website without hosting it, although a free website will not be as good as a self-hosted one. If you are looking for a simple way to create a blog, this is probably the best option available.

However, a self-hosted website provides more flexibility and allows you to monetize your content. Besides, a self-hosted site makes clients see that you’re an established writer; thus, they’ll want to hire you. 

Does WordPress Require Coding?

WordPress does not require coding; thus, making things simple when creating a website. In fact, most WordPress users are novices when it comes to coding language.

So, whether you are a beginner or pro, getting your WordPress website running takes little effort.

Is WordPress Free or Not?

WordPress is free, but there are also four paid options. The most affordable paid option is the “Personal” website followed by “Premium,” “Business,” and “eCommerce” in order.

The more you spend, the more features you have. If you aim towards owning a high authority site, paid options allow you to earn from the engagement your website attracts.

Wrapping Up

As you can see, this step-by-step guide on how to create a free WordPress website is simple. You can do it all by yourself. Besides, you can see that there is no coding or extra skills needed to create your free blog.

You, therefore, have no reasons for not owning a free WordPress blog.

Apart from this, your free WordPress site is a stepping stone to owning a self-hosted website. When your budget allows you to cater for hosting costs, you can comfortably host the site.

The good thing is that you will not lose your traffic or following. Hence, you won’t build your site from scratch again.

Would you like any assistance in creating a free or self-hosted blog? Feel free to contact me so that we discuss further.

 

Online Payment Modes Freelancers Can Use To Receive Payment

Online payment methods

Figure it out: you’ve landed on a client. It is your first encounter. You set the terms of your engagement. To ensure you keep the client, you dedicate all your energy and wit in delivering pure gold.The client is happy and wants to fulfill her part – paying you your dues. She requests you to provide your preferred modes of online payment.

But oops!

“Your proposed method is not acceptable in our country.” For you, it is the only method you know and understand.

Now, you’re not sure what to do. Will you forfeit you hard earned coins or what next? Well, if this is your case, you do not need to worry. As a freelancer, there’re several methods you can use to receive cash from your client(s).

Before moving on with the modes of online payment for freelancers, here are some things you need to know:

  • Some of the methods require verification using a debit or a credit card.
  • Each method has a transaction fee and sometimes a commission of the amount you send or receive.
  • You can install an app of your preferred mode of payment on your phone. So, you can withdraw your cash at any place.
  • The best payment option is the one favorable for your client.
  • Each method has its pros and cons.

Having said this, it now time to go into details.

Let’s begin.

PayPal

If you’ve been around for some time, PayPal is not a new term to you. PayPal is one of the leading modes of online payment. It is the pioneer of virtual payment solution and has been in existence for the last 20 years.

The platform stands out as the largest online payment solution having over 267 million users and acceptable in over 200 countries across the global.

So, your client might be one of PayPal’s accounts holder. As a freelancer, you can create a personal or business account. The process of creating a PayPal account is simple. PayPal charges you a transaction fee of 3.4% + $0.30.

However, upcoming updates that will become effective from July 2019 may alter these charges.

Now, you’re asking: what are the benefits of using PayPal as your mode of payment? Well, let’s look at its pros and cons.

Pros

Simplicity and ease of use are the reasons why PayPal stands out in the virtual payment niche. For you to create an account, you only need an email address. However, you must provide authentic information for verification purpose.

Again, ensure the names and email you use for registration are similar to ones on your ID and credit card. This aspect will save you from future challenges when PayPal will require you to prove you are the authentic owner of the account.

The next merit of PayPal is familiarity. Many clients are aware of this mode of payment. Also, the clients do not need to have an account with PayPal to pay you.

If you have a website, you can add a PayPal plugin to enable you to receive payment from anyone. Also, you can create and send an invoice to your clients using this platform.

Apart from this, withdrawing your cash is easy. As a Kenyan freelancer, this method is a great option for you over other modes of online payment because you can integrate your PayPal account with your Equity Bank account.

This step will enable you to withdraw and receive your cash within 3 business days. Nonetheless, waiting for three days may seem like a nightmare. Particularly, when you have an emergency that cannot wait for more than a day, any delay can make things worse.

Fortunately, you can now withdraw and receive your dues within 2 hours on your Mpesa. Safaricom entered into a partnership with PayPal to enable online merchants and freelancers enjoy swift services.

Hence, you can attest that PayPal is a convenient mode of payment for freelances.

Cons

Despite having a number of benefits, PayPal has its shortfalls. As a freelancer, you need to understand these shortfalls to keep you on the safer side. First, this platform comes with limited terms of use.

Unlike other modes of online payment; if you breach PayPal’s terms, you face account suspension or termination. For instance, if you receive ransom amounts than usual, you must provide proof of their origin or a payment receipt.

Failure to taking this action, your account can be frozen or suspended for 180 days. While this aspect can cause inconveniences in your operations, it is one approach for preventing money laundering in the virtual space.

Also, there have been complaints about PayPal’s customer service. It is sometimes hard to solve issues by calling the company’s customer services. Due to this issue, many clients are avoiding it. Hence, if PayPal is your only haven, you’re likely to lose a client.

Lastly, digital goods do not form part of PayPal’s Seller protection policies. So, when you sell a product to your customer in electronic format, they can use it and reverse the fund they paid to you. Scammers can utilize this pothole to terrorize you.

Nevertheless, PayPal is a renowned mode of payment and a priority for many online clients. But what if your client’s country does not accept PayPal?

Here are the alternatives:

Skrill

Skrill is another popular online payment processing gateway. Like PayPal, it allows you to send and receive cash from your clients. This digital wallet is acceptable in over 200 countries. Also, you can transact using over 40 local currencies.

So, when a client sends you some dollars, you will receive them in Kenya Shillings.

When it comes to a transaction fee, Skrill changes you 1.9% transaction fee. Also, you need to pay the conversion charges of 3.99%.  Just like the other modes of online payment, Skrill, too, has pros as well as the drawbacks.

Pros

Skrill enables you to withdraw cash to your Mpesa account. This service is faster compared with the one of PayPal to Mpesa. Hence, it can save you on a dark day.  In addition, it helps to save coins in form of agent’s fees when you have an emergency.

It is simple to setup and add to your mobile wallet (Mpesa).

Again, your client does not need to have a Skrill account to pay you. This digital wallet has hosted payments option for this purpose. The platform is also PCI compliant which is an assurance of your safety when using your credit/debit card or bank account.

Cons

Despite the pros, Skrill has its bad sides, too. First, it lacks seller and buyer protection policy. The platform states that it is an intermediary for enhancing payment processing. So, whether you lose money or not it’s upon you to take due diligence in your deals.

Also, the platform charges hefty withdrawal fees compared with PayPal.

Another shortfall of Skrill is that it requests a lot of sensitive information. Many clients are not willing to share such information due to their privacy issues thus going for other modes of online payment.

On the other hand, many freelancers complain that there are hefty hidden fees, thus making the freelancer to receive very little money from what was initially paid by the client.

Recommended for you to read: 404 Error: How to Fix Before Google Deals with You

Nonetheless, it is a good option for you to receive cash from your online clients and maybe a life saver in case of an emergency that needs money fast.

Payoneer

If PayPal and Skrill are not serving you and your clients well, Payoneer can be a good idea. Payoneer is a leading international online payment gateway. Like other modes of online payment, it enables you to receive cash from different freelancing market places.

The platform has over four million users and accepted in over 200 countries. Also, you can transact with over 150 local currencies. In terms of fees, Payoneer will charge you between 0.5% and 3% per transaction excluding the conversion charges.

But what are the good and bad sides of Payoneer?

Pros

  • You can withdraw cash on the nearest ATM using the Payoneer Prepaid Card. Once, you signup for a Payoneer account, you can request for a prepaid card (MasterCard). Hence, you have an opportunity to use this card for transactions on any places where MasterCard is acceptable. Good idea?
  • You earn referral and signup bonus: You earn $25 for every referral receiving $1000 on their account. As such, you have a chance to add an extra income stream through this online payment method.
  • Apart from allowing you to receive payment from clients, Payoneer offers you an opportunity to generate passive income. That is, the company offers you a bonus of $50 (approximately KES 5000) once your account hits $1000 in a transaction.

Cons

  • You pay Payoneer card annual fees of $29.95 and a replacement fee of $12.95. These fees add extra costs to your business.
  • No live chat support available. Hence, if you have a problem with your card, it will take a longer duration before solving it.

Transferwise

Are you looking for a way to receive cash directly to your bank account? Or maybe your clients are in a country that does not accept PayPal, Payoneer or Skrill. If this is your case, do not lose your precious clients.

Transferwise is a good idea.

Pros

Transferwise enables your clients to send you cash to your bank account or Mpesa and eliminate any third-party channels. Also, you do not need to wait for days to receive your cash. Once your client pays you, the cash will be in your account within 59 minutes to 24 hours.

The transaction fee is another good thing about this digital online payment mode.

To process your cash, Transferwise will charge you $2 as Bank Debit fee and $10.71 for the transaction totaling to $12.71. Considering the time value of money, these charges are fair. Also, the signup process is simple. You can either use your Facebook or Gmail account to sign up.

However, you need a scanned copy of your ID and a proof of address for verification. Nonetheless, the signup and verification process is easy and quick.

Cons

On the downside of Transferwise fees are higher compared with other online payment methods. See, you are surrendering $12.71 (KES 1,271) for processing a transaction! Well, despite this shortfall, it is a good idea when time is your priority.

World Remit

If your client is paying you less than $10,000, World Remit is a good mode of online payment to consider since it is acceptable in Kenya. It is a favorable option for over 2 million users across 20 countries in the world. However, you can transfer or receive cash from any country.

This digital money transfer works well for transfers for clients in Asia, South America, and Africa. Is World Remit a good option for you?

To answer you, here are the pros and cons:

Pros

The first benefit of this online cash transfer platform is that you can receive money in your Mpesa or Bank account. The transaction can be instant or take up to 7 days depending on the option you take.

Also, the transaction fee is cheap. The platform has a calculator to help your client see the charges they will incur depending on where they reside (Transfer fee is zero for most of the American states).

Cons

So, does this mode of online payment have its bad sides? Certainly, yes. Like other digital money transfer platforms, World Remit has its cons. First, you cannot transfer more than $10,000 at ago. Also, the amount can be lower than this in some countries.

Secondly, the transfer fee varies with the amount and country. Also, your clients’ country may not accept this mode of payment. However, as a Kenyan freelancer, World remit is a good option for receiving your dues.

Wrapping Up Modes of Online payment

As you can see, a number of online payment options are available. When one option is not available in your client’s country, you can opt for the other. The key thing is ensuring your payment method is acceptable to your client.

Was this information helpful? If so, share the good news with other freelancers who are struggling to know the best modes of online payment they can use. Also, do not hesitate to ask any question regarding this topic on the comments.

Happy freelancing!

How To Withdraw Money from Paypal to M-Pesa in One Minute(Updated)!

PayPal to M-Pesa in 2 hours

John is a freelance writer in Kenya. He recently got paid via PayPal. And though he’s delighted about working online and getting paid for his writing efforts, his excitement is short-lived. Why? Because he’s clueless on how to withdraw money from PayPal to his M-Pesa wallet.

Are you facing a similar situation like John? Perhaps even longing to understand the PayPal to M-Pesa withdrawal process in a more clear, coherent, and organized way?

This post provides a clear-cut step-by-step process on how to withdraw PayPal funds directly into your M-Pesa wallet (in a way that even your grandma can understand).

But first, here are quick facts to ponder on:

  • It wasn’t until April 19th, 2018, that Kenyans were able to directly move money from PayPal to their M-Pesa accounts – never mind at affordable rates.
  • Before PayPal partnered with Safaricom to facilitate the withdrawal process, PayPal to M-Pesa agents– honest and unscrupulous alike –dominated the market with glee charging steep facilitation fees. In return offered instant money withdrawal/deposit services.
  • Freelancers like John instead opted to withdraw PayPal funds via Equity Bank at reduced fees. But this alternative withdrawal method took 8 days back in 2013. It now takes 3 days.
  • Today, you can withdraw money from PayPal to M-Pesa in only 1 minute, previously it was 2 hours!

Now, let’s head on to the withdrawal process. Shall we?

#Register to the Service

This is the first step to moving funds between your PayPal and M-Pesa accounts. It’s so easy to register to the PayPal mobile money service. Just follow this link, and click “Get Started”.

Get started PayPal to M-Pesa

You must have a PayPal account before you proceed to register to the PayPal mobile money service. Sign up for an account then proceed to register to the service.

Also, remember the name used to register your M-Pesa account should match the name on your PayPal account for the successful transfer of money.

Otherwise, all your transfer efforts will be futile if there’s a name mismatch on the accounts.

#Use Your PayPal Account and Email Address to Log In

Once you click the “Get Started” button you’ll be redirected to your PayPal account. Here, use your email address and password to log in.

Login To PayPal To Withdraw money

Please note: The PayPal mobile money service operates independently and is powered by TransferTo – a Singapore-based cross-border payment business service.

That’s why you need to use your PayPal account and email address to log in (before you can use the service).

#Link Your PayPal and M-Pesa Accounts

You have registered for the service. You have used your PayPal account to log in to your PayPal Mobile Money Service account. The third step is to link your PayPal and M-Pesa accounts.

How to do this?

Enter your M-Pesa mobile number then click “Link your accounts”.

Link your PayPal to M-Pesa

#Enter Confirmation Code

Immediately you hit the “Link your accounts” button, you’ll receive a confirmation code via text message. Enter the code and click “Confirm” to complete your registration, and voila!

Congratulations!

You have successfully registered to the service and linked to your PayPal and M-Pesa accounts and can now withdraw from PayPal to M-Pesa. In only one minute!

Enter confirmation Code to Withdraw Money

So How Do I Withdraw Money To My M-Pesa Account?

I’m glad you want to know.

Now that you have successfully linked your PayPal and M-Pesa accounts, the next step is to withdraw funds from your PayPal to M-Pesa wallet.

To make this possible, let’s head back to the homepage of your PayPal Mobile Money service account. Do you see the “Withdraw from PayPal” button? Yes? Click on it.

withdraw from PayPal to M-Pesa

#Withdraw Money

By clicking the “Withdraw from PayPal” button, you’ll come into full view of your available balance in your PayPal account but in U.S Dollars.

Enter the amount of money you wish to withdraw in the section circled below, then click “Continue to Withdraw”.

Withdraw Funds from PayPal to M-Pesa

#Verify the Withdrawal

Let’s recap.

You have linked your PayPal and M-Pesa accounts. You have authorized the system to withdraw money from PayPal to M-Pesa. Now the final step is to verify the withdrawal.

When you click “Continue to Withdraw” button, you’ll see the amount debited from your PayPal account automatically converted into Kenyan Shillings.

On the same page, you will see the time it takes for your money to be accessible in your M-Pesa account. Click “Confirm” to complete the money transfer, and that’s it!

Paypal to mpesa

Important To Know….

At times, PayPal may limit your  PayPal account due to various reasons. That being said; any money that is there will no longer be accessible. Mostly, they will limit the account for 180 days  (6 months). That’s not a short duration.

However, at times, they will ask you to provide certain documents, which if they are content with, will lift the ban.

Nonetheless, if they do not, you must wait for the 180 days to elapse. Once they do, they will send you an email telling you that the funds are now accessible.

Here’s what to do after that;

  • Login to your PayPal account.
  • Click on “Contact Us” option. Alternatively, you can click on “Help” option.
  • Send them an email explaining that you live outside of U.S and do not have a U.S bank account. Further, explain that you want to send the money to another PayPal account (friend’s or relative’s PayPal account).
    Request them to lift the ban so that you can send the money.
  • Send email and wait for their response.

You should receive an email from them approving your request.

Hint…

Just so you know, sometimes the account is not limited because you have done anything wrong. No! I am a victim of this limitation. It is the worst thing that can happen to you, especially if you are using the account to receive or pay money. While you can still receive money, you cannot withdraw it.

My account was limited a couple of moths ago. There was nothing wrong I had done. I was told to verify if it was my account.One of the things that I was asked to provide is a bank statement.

There is no need to panic, though I did.

Here’s what I did. I requested for my M-pesa statement. Of course, since I earn money online and get paid through mpesa, it was easy to show the transactions. I mean, once I receive the money in my Paypal account, I don’t send it to Equity rather, I send it to Mpesa.

So, I requested for my Mpesa statement, edited the postal address to look like the one on my paypal then sent it to them.

Remember, they will also ask for your colored ID (Identity Card), both sides.

Conclusion

The PayPal to M-Pesa withdrawal process is simple to execute, right? Well, that’s because it is.

If you are keen to follow through all the steps as provided, you will have your M-Pesa account credited with money in seconds. And you’ll be free to use your money locally as you like.

Is my money secure during the transfer, you ask? PayPal is a worldwide trusted authority in the money transfer business. And Safaricom – parent company to M-Pesa – is a globally recognized Telcom and money service provider as well.

Your money couldn’t be any safer.

If you encounter a problem during the transfer of money from PayPal to M-Pesa or a technical hitch when you try to withdraw money, kindly contact PayPal’s customer service for quick assistance.

PayPal to Equity: 11 Easy Steps to Withdrawing Your Money (In Just 3 Days!)

PayPal to Equity in 3 days

Picture this: You’ve just received your first paycheck via PayPal. You are so ecstatic to see the dollars on your screen. And you can’t wait to spend your money. But there’s one thing you may be forgetting: do you know how to withdraw money from PayPal to your Equity Bank account?

Though PayPal offers a seamless experience to withdrawing funds in Kenya, few have a firm grasp of the process.

Lucky for you, this post provides the needful steps to make withdrawing your money from PayPal to Equity a cakewalk.

Before we proceed, here are a few reminders:

  • To receive payments online, it’s of paramount importance to verify your PayPal account.
  • You can withdraw funds as little as 1% from your PayPal.
  • You can withdraw funds from PayPal to Equity in Euros, Great Britain Pounds, U.S. Dollars or Kenyan Shillings – in just 3 business days.

That said, let’s get started.

Ready? Great!

#Visit the Equity Bank Self-Service Portal to Register

Self-service portal by Equity (PayPal to Equity)

Now, to get started on the withdrawal process, visit the Equity Bank Self Service portal. This is the first step you’ll need to undertake to withdraw funds directly into your Equity Bank account.

#Verify Your Private Details

Fill in the details paypal to equityNext, input your relevant and correct details in the fields marked with a red asterisk (*). Areas not marked are optional and not necessary to fill in the required details.

However, you MUST make sure your PayPal email matches your Equity Bank account email address.

#Create a Solid Password

enter equity password to withdraw from equity to paypal

To secure both your bank account and PayPal account transactions, it is needful to create a strong password. How to do this? If you are on Chrome browser, you’ll notice Google automatically creates a strong password for its users.

Nevertheless, you may opt-in on this option or create your own password with the usual 8 characters or more inclusive of special characters, numbers, and capital letters. It’s your choice.

Then click, “Next”.

#Terms And Conditions – Read And Accept!

Paypal to equity terms and conditions

Let’s be honest! This step is a no-brainer. You see, people hardly read the terms and conditions anyway. But you’re at liberty to read the information provided before you agree to the terms.

#Enter the OTP (One-Time Password)

Complete Registration for PayPal to Equity

For Equity Bank to deem your registration complete, you’ll have to enter your one-time password. The OTP comes in the form of a text message on the number you provided when registering for the service.

#Registration Successful. Please Login!

Login to PayPal to Equity

Your registration is successful and your profile created. This is just a prelude to the good part, which involves linking your Equity Bank account to your PayPal account. So, login to proceed.

#Link Your Equity Bank and PayPal Account

Link your PayPal to Equity

Once successfully logged in, the next step involves linking your existing account – or a new account –to your PayPal account.

Do you have an existing account? Then, enter your [current] account number and click “START”. If not, dial *247# from your phone to open an account instantly within Kenya.

On the other hand, click here to open your account if you’re outside Kenya

#Once Again, Enter OTP and Verify Account

enter OTP To withdraw from PayPal to Equity

Successfully linked PayPal to Equity

And voila! Your PayPal account is now linked to Equity’s bank account. You can proceed to use Equity Bank services.

#Link Existing Account

Select PayPal to Equity bank

For this step, you need to enter relevant PayPal verification details and select the bank account you want to link to. This process is simple if you follow the details correctly.

Enter your email address, select bank account to link to, accept T&Cs, and then link your PayPal account.

#Grant PayPal Full Authorization

PayPal to Equity

By clicking the “Authorize” button, you are granting Equity Bank permission to carry out the permissions highlighted in the [red] box.

Please note: These permissions allow you to check your PayPal balance via Equity’s Banking system. They also allow withdrawing of funds from the same banking system, too.

To put it in another way, they eliminate the need to log into your PayPal account.

#Congratulations! Withdrawing Your Money Is Now Easier

select PayPal to Equity Account

Once your PayPal account has been successfully linked to your bank account, withdrawing funds from PayPal to Equity couldn’t be easier. You just need to follow the steps as provided in the screenshot.

  • On the top menu bar, click “Withdraw Service”
  • Fill in the details
  • Click “Accept”

And that’s it!

Nonetheless, you’ll get a confirmation message of your funds’ withdrawal both on your email and the banking systems dialogue box. After 3 business days, your bank account will then be credited.

You can as well read: 9 Simple and Proven Ways To Earn Online

Conclusion

There you have it! A step-by-step process on how to withdraw your PayPal funds to Equity Bank account in Kenya.

This is the official withdrawal process the bank provides on its self-service portal. Is the withdrawing process secure enough? I’m glad you asked.

Equity Bank has harnessed its security on the process by employing the use of high-tech defense technology. It further heightens its security through the use of multiple OTPs.

However, if you encounter problems while withdrawing your money, call Equity Bank or PayPal customer support for assistance.