Paypal...gift, services, item question

[Anthony]

Everytime I send someone some money through Paypal, I list it as a "gift"...I always assumed it made it free of any fees...but does it really? 

How does Paypal discern what kind of percentage to take from a payment?  I've got some payments to me recently and find that a few bucks I planned on using for shipping was taken out.  Is there any way around those fees?

[I'm Still Bison]

I've used Paypal in various modes,gift,services,Ebay,etc....and Paypal has always taken their 3%.The only way I know of making sure you get or receive the full amount is to figure in Paypal's cut.

[WhichDawg]

Recently I used my paypal account and it "Now" says that i can't use my credit card, only my bank account. This su....saws horses because;
1. its very inconvenient
2. easier to get over drafts and more charges added
3. I hate the security issue of my account out and other people in there!

We figure it's because credit card companies charge paypal for their use and paypal is trying to make more money.
I would seriously like to use/find something better, and am very displeased with paypal now, forcing me to do things...

[Anthony]

Well, I just sent $20 to NutSAK and listed it as a "service"...if they ate the 3% let me know NutSAK and I'll make it up.

[yellowhammer]

If you want to know the fees that'll be incurred this is handy; http://www.ppcalc.com/

[Tom Munch]

Recently I used my paypal account and it "Now" says that i can't use my credit card, only my bank account. This su....saws horses because;
1. its very inconvenient
2. easier to get over drafts and more charges added
3. I hate the security issue of my account out and other people in there!

We figure it's because credit card companies charge paypal for their use and paypal is trying to make more money.
I would seriously like to use/find something better, and am very displeased with paypal now, forcing me to do things...

I just sent a payment to Tim felinevet via PayPal on my credit card a couple days ago.  Are you sure you are clicking More Funding Options in the Payment Method?

[WhichDawg]

Recently I used my paypal account and it "Now" says that i can't use my credit card, only my bank account. This su....saws horses because;
1. its very inconvenient
2. easier to get over drafts and more charges added
3. I hate the security issue of my account out and other people in there!

We figure it's because credit card companies charge paypal for their use and paypal is trying to make more money.
I would seriously like to use/find something better, and am very displeased with paypal now, forcing me to do things...

I just sent a payment to Tim felinevet via PayPal on my credit card a couple days ago.  Are you sure you are clicking More Funding Options in the Payment Method?

I am using an upgraded account, so like you said other general accounts may not be doing it.