How to get paid as a remote worker without a PayPal account

12 Min

June 4, 2025

Introduction

PayPal Payouts is an online payment system that enables a business to pay multiple entities worldwide, but it’s not the only one. Choosing the right financial technology comes with unique challenges, and you must be discerning. Although PayPal is an ideal payment gateway, there are hundreds of alternatives—some of which may be a better fit for your business.

Common features of the best online payment systems include:

  1. International transaction capabilities
  2. Working with local currency
  3. Ability to send money transfers
  4. Low fees for everything
  5. Manage an online business or ecommerce platform
  6. Access to international networks and marketplaces
  7. Prepaid debit cards (usually Visa or Mastercard)
  8. Offers some form of working capital

Things to consider when getting paid as a freelancer

Freelancers need to be mindful of several factors when deciding on the best payment methods to accept from clients. These considerations can help ensure smooth transactions and prompt payments while minimising any potential fees.

Here are some steps that a freelancer can take to determine the best way to accept payments:

  1. Evaluate the nature of your services and clients
    The type of work that you do and the clients that you serve can help you find your optimal payment method. For example, if you work with local clients, direct bank transfers or peer-to-peer payment networks may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you work with international clients, using a payment processor like Transfi can simplify your payments setup. Transfi supports transactions in a multitude of currencies and payment methods, so you won’t lose out on international clients due to payment method limitations.
  1. Consider your business structure
    If you operate as a sole proprietor, simpler methods like direct bank transfers might be sufficient. However, if you run a larger freelance business with multiple employees or subcontractors, you might require a more sophisticated payment system, such as those offered by Transfi or a similar service.
  1. Take into account the size and frequency of payments
    If you’re working on large projects with substantial but infrequent payments, bank transfers or cheques might be suitable, given that these methods can handle larger amounts and the processing time won’t be as much of a concern. If you’re dealing with small, frequent payments, a method with lower transaction fees like a peer-to-peer network might be a better option. With Transfi, the size and frequency of your payments aren’t an issue. Transfi’s processing system can handle both large, infrequent payments and small, frequent ones. Transfi’s flexible system can adapt to your specific billing needs, whether you charge per project, per hour or on a recurring basis.
  1. Consider ease of use and accessibility for your clients
    It’s important to choose a payment method that your clients are comfortable with. For example, if your clients are tech-savvy, they may prefer digital payments. However, if they’re more traditional, cheques or direct bank transfers might make the most sense for them. If you’re looking for a solution that works for everyone, Transfi offers a smooth and intuitive payment experience in which clients can pay with their preferred method, whether it’s a credit card, debit card or local payment method.
  1. Understand fees
    Most payment methods charge some kind of fee. These fees can be flat rates or percentages of the transaction amount. Because these fees add up over time, it’s important to understand the fee structure of your chosen payment method and consider how it will impact your overall earnings.
  2. Consider security
    Choose a payment method that provides good security measures to protect your earnings and your clients' information. Reliable services should have strong encryption and fraud prevention features in place. Transfi’s security adheres to and surpasses the toughest industry security benchmarks, employs encryption for every transaction, and includes expansive fraud detection and prevention measures that are built into its payment solutions.

When choosing a payment method for your freelance work, there’s no obligation to pick only one. It’s perfectly acceptable to offer more than one payment option to accommodate various client preferences, as long as you’re comfortable with managing different methods. And whatever you choose, make sure that you clearly communicate your payment options and terms to your clients up front to avoid any confusion or delays in payment.

Best PayPal Alternatives for Digital Payments

  1. Transfi

Transfi is one of the best PayPal alternatives, making automating payables faster, safer, and more efficient. The end-to-end solution modernizes operations while providing an effective means to process payments internationally. Users can quickly and easily send payouts to suppliers, freelancers, and other recipients. The system also offers a variety of payment methods. From automation to virtual payment services and digital marketplaces, Transfi is a robust platform that delivers a worldwide white-label experience. 

What does Transfi provide?

  • Quick cross border transfers with instant processing
  • Multi currency accessibility, provides 40+ currency options
  • Multiple payment options 
  • Effortless API integration
  • Competitive and transparent pricing 
  • 24/7 customer support

Transfi’s Bizpay provides a one stop solution for all your international payment needs, it is easily accessible and does not require one to have a paypal account!

  1. Revolut

Revolut is a UK-based financial technology brand that offers a wide range of digital banking features through its mobile app. Functionality includes access to multi-currency accounts, prepaid debit cards (MasterCard or Visa), currency exchange, cryptocurrency trading, and peer-to-peer payments. The app supports spending and ATM withdrawals in 120+ currencies and enables transfers in 29 currencies directly from the platform.

  1. Stripe

Stripe is a payment processor that offers custom APIs for e-commerce companies and mobile apps. The platform accepts over 135 different payment methods and multiple currencies and is the best software for running an online business. You can start taking payments directly through your website or app with integration.

  1. Wise

Wise (formerly known as Transferwise) is a financial automation platform known for its low-cost global money transfer services. It offers multi-currency accounts, real exchange rates, and transparent fees. The system is widely used for cross-border payments and supports integrations with various accounting systems. The brand empowers companies to build global payment solutions, offering six direct connections into payout systems and 90+ banking partners.

  1. Payoneer

Payoneer is very similar to owning a PayPal account in that it offers a merchant account that provides money transfers and digital payment services. It’s the world’s go-to partner for e-commerce businesses, online stores, small companies, enterprises, and more. Payoneer also offers working capital, borderless payments, and endless opportunities for business growth.

Why Transfi Is The Best Way to get paid as a remote worker without a paypal account

When sending or receiving, Transfi stands out as your trusted partner for seamless, secure, and cost-effective transactions. With a wide range of payment options, competitive pricing, and easy integration, Trnasfi simplifies the process and helps your business thrive in the fast-paced digital landscape.

Transfi offers a convenient and simplified means to send and receive with features such as:

  1. Multi-Currency Virtual Accounts: Access over 30 currencies for seamless global transactions.
  1. Competitive Exchange Rates: Save on every transaction with low-cost currency conversions.
  1. Effortless API Integration: Quick and easy setup to streamline your business operations.
  1. Real-Time Payment: Stay updated on incoming and outgoing payments instantly.
  1. 24/7 Availability: Transfi is operational every day, ensuring constant support.

Also find out about How to Avoid High Fees When Receiving International Payments

by following this link!

Conclusion

PayPal isn’t the end-all, be-all when it comes to online payment systems. Take the time first to really understand your core business needs. What are the top features required? Is there a budget? How many people will be using the software? These are all great questions that should be asked at the beginning of your search.

By now, there are hundreds of accounting software platforms to choose from. Do the work upfront, and you’ll find a better fit in the long run. Ready to start exploring the top alternative to PayPal Payouts? Get started with Transfi today!

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

  1. Why do freelancers trust Transfi for cross border payments and receipts?
  • Seamless cross border payments
  • Low setting up cost
  • User friendly systems
  • Multiple currency and payment options
  • 24/7 customer support 
  1. How can freelancers accept payments from international clients?

Freelancers can receive international payments through various online platforms such as Transfi, PayPal, Wise, and Amazon Payments. One can use Transfi for easy, minimal and flexible international payments as you can receive money in desired currencies or cryptos without exchange costs or additional charges.

  1. Which payment method is the best for freelancers?

Each freelancer-client contract will have a suitable payment, depending on preference and the circumstances of the transaction. Regardless of what you choose, it’s recommended to always choose a secure payment platform like Transfi, so both parties are protected and there’s an easy way for you to track payments.

  1. What are the best paypal alternatives for digital payments?
  • Transfi
  • Revolut
  • Stripe 
  • Wise 
  • Payoneer 
  1. What are the things to consider when getting paid as a freelancer?
  • Evaluate the nature of your services and clients
  • Consider your business structure
  • Take into account the size and frequency of payments
  • Consider ease of use and accessibility for your clients
  • Understand fees
  • Consider security 

TransFi Team

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