PayPal's Acceptable Use Policy prohibits some activities and requires pre-approval for many others. If your business falls into one of those groups, a dedicated merchant account can give you steadier processing.
PayPal's US Acceptable Use Policy lists activities it doesn't allow at all, such as transactions involving certain controlled substances and drug paraphernalia, firearms and ammunition, and certain credit repair or debt settlement services.
It also lists 18 categories that need PayPal's approval before you can accept payments. They include transportation, gambling and contests, cryptocurrency, prescription items, telemedicine, mature audience content, online dating, alcohol, non-cigarette tobacco, medical items or services, multilevel marketing and marketplaces. Using PayPal for one of these without approval is itself a policy violation.
Based on PayPal's US Acceptable Use Policy (last updated October 29, 2022), reviewed November 2026. PayPal may change its policies at any time. PayPal is a trademark of PayPal, Inc. Zeyla is not affiliated with PayPal.
When a platform account is limited or closed, sales stop and funds can be held while the account is reviewed. A dedicated merchant account is reviewed before you start, so the terms, including any rolling reserve, are clear from day one. Many businesses also keep more than one way to accept payments so a single account issue doesn't stop sales.
Practices and providers that bill patients online or in person.
Healthcare payment processing →Crypto-related businesses that need a processor willing to review them.
Crypto merchant accounts →Agencies and operators that take payment well before the service date.
Travel merchant accounts →Common reasons include selling in a category that's prohibited or needs pre-approval, a rise in disputes or refunds, or unusual activity. PayPal's notice to you should explain the specific reason.
It takes a little longer, because a specialist reviews your business before approval. That review is also what makes the account more stable once it's open. The approval checklist shows what to prepare.
Many businesses accept cards through a merchant account and offer other payment options alongside it, as long as each provider's rules allow their business.
No. Zeyla is an independent payment processing company and is not affiliated with PayPal, Inc.
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