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PayPal just blocked my account for using F&F

I used to be steadfast in refusing to use F&F because it is less secure, but also because it cheats PP out of their fees. However, so many people are just as steadfast in their refusal to use regular PP that I finally gave up and started to do it. Now PP has flagged my account and locked it until I explain why I am using it.

It looks like the days of circumventing their fees by using F&F may be coming to a close.

Wondering what's the best alternative. They own Venmo now so that free option will probably go away. I have Zelle but the limit is so low it is impractical. I actually prefer ACH transfers, but so many people are paranoid about giving you their checking account info it is a struggle. BTW, the only info you have to give is what is printed on the face of every check you have ever written, but for some reason, a lot of people freak out when you ask them for it.

herman
prefab's avatar
prefab
66 posts
 

I think the risk is of being scammed is far greater for the buyer. I will only use Goods and Services when dealing with a stranger. I cannot afford to gamble thousands of dollars on an unknown party. I think that is crazy. In fact, I think the ask is sketchy at best. Especially when the option to pay the fee is readily available. 

Last week I decided it was time to buy my dream preamp. I was turned down three times for wanting to buy with Goods and Services, and willing to pay the fees. Losing $10k would  be a significant financial blow for me and would probably crush my Audiophile retirement plans. I am starting to think that the only option for used equipment is dealers who sell used. 

mitch2
4,731 posts
 

PP offers the option to use F&F and, while their instructions indicate suggestions of when/how it can be used, I do not remember reading any hard and fast rules about when it cannot be used.

I have been using USAM for most of my buying/selling, primarily because of the ability to communicate directly with buyers and sellers, as we could formerly do on A’gon.  By communicating directly, I can at least learn a little about the person I am trading with, which gives me more confidence to use F&F for lower value trades of around $1K or less.

artemus_5's avatar
artemus_5
2,016 posts
 

Unless one has absolute confidence in the integrity of the seller, it's better to simply tack the 3.5% fee onto the total, make seller whole, and consider the fee as transaction insurance.

I agree with Ted B. But the seller is not the only problem. What happens if the package is lost in shipping? Or damaged? Or how about a car accident which hospitalizes the seller or worse. I'm glad to pay with PP F&F Just send me the item and I will send you the $$$ when the item arrives. A seller who insists on F&F is not one I will deal with. I'm surprised anyone does. 

artemus_5's avatar
artemus_5
2,016 posts
 

@stereo5 

The refund was in PayPal limbo for  7 business days, then rerouted to the CC issuer for the refund.

Are you sure it was Paypal limbo? Transactions via Agon are routed through Agon aren't they? Several years ago I bought a tonearm which the seller didn't get paid. I had to help him go through Agon to get his payment. This was 3-4 months later. 

jimf421
60 posts
 

I only accept cash. Buyer has to figure out how they want to send it to me.

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