How Can I Get Paid as a VA?

When it comes to getting your payments as a VA, the main things to consider are reliability, security, and speed of transfers. There are a few reputable online money transfer companies to choose from. But deciding on one largely depends on both you and your client’s preference. For a virtual assistant one main consideration is ease of use or a hassle-free system. While employers normally want a payment method that does not charge much when transferring funds. 

Here are some of the commonly used payment methods to get paid as a VA:

1. PayPal

When we talk about credible, safe, and secure online payment company, PayPal is a household name. You can be assured that your money is in good hands. The American e-payment company is the biggest brand in the realm of electronic payments system. Thus, if you are a virtual assistant, clients usually expect you to have your own PayPal account to receive your salaries. 

PayPal is user-friendly and intuitive. Its fuss-free design does not intimidate first-time users. If you want to receive your VA fees via this method, all you need to do is link either a major debit or credit card or your local bank account. By linking a bank account or a Visa, Mastercard or American Express card to your PayPal account, you can transfer the funds received in your PayPal Account to the linked card or bank account. Another great thing about this payment transfer option is that it supports a lot of currencies. 

But in anything there’s always a downside. One is high cross-border transfer costs which is at least 2.5%. Another one is account freeze without prior notice. While it is a good thing and only validates how secure this digital payment company is, some freelancers and virtual assistants are not comfortable about this possibility. 

Another thing to keep in mind is the fact that PayPal is often a target of cyber criminals such as phishers and online thieves. Therefore, always be alert and in the know of updates. Know PayPal’s official emails and notifications. 

2. Bank Transfer

Electronic fund transfer to your bank is the most convenient and cheapest way to get paid as a VA. These direct transfers are also fast. They usually only take between 24 to 48 hours. Also, you do not need to worry about your money getting frozen within a third-party platform or suspended en route to your account.

The bad news however is that some overseas clients cannot transfer funds directly to your bank account due to restrictions imposed by their own local bank. Therefore, it is not a convenient option for your employer.

3. Online Job Platforms

Some virtual employment platforms offer their own payments system such as Upwork. Their own payments collection system will basically bill your clients on your behalf. So no need for you to send an invoice to your client and your hours worked are practically always hours paid. Once payment is available, you have the option to withdraw your salary by linking your local bank account or transfer via PayPal or Payoneer.

While freelance sites are still a reliable way to get paid as a virtual assistant, the problem is that they aren’t as fast and you get to pay the transfer and withdrawal fees, unless your client picks up the fees for you. 

4. International Money Transfer Platform

Another convenient method to receive your payment as a VA is through online money transfer sites such as TransferWise, Xoom, XE amongst others depending on which platform is mostly used in your client’s location. The good thing about these platforms is you receive your money directly to your own bank account. Plus, you don’t need to pay cross-border fees. 

In conclusion, there are several credible ways to get paid as a VA. Now it really is just a matter of choosing which one is most convenient not only for you but also for your client.