Overview
DreamHost provides you with several options when it comes to paying for services, however the method of payment may vary depending on the service you're paying for. This article explains what is available depending on your situation.
What payment methods are accepted at sign up?
If you are opening a new account, a credit card must be used. You also have the option to use PayPal to open a new Shared, DreamPress, or email-only account.
After the initial payment is received and the account is approved, you may make subsequent payments using any of the accepted payment methods described below.
What payment methods are accepted for invoices and due balances?
DreamHost accepts a variety of payment options through your panel, including:
- Credit/Debit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and Diners Club)
- Electronic Check / ACH
- PayPal
- Check or Money Order
Please be aware of the following if you're making a physical check or money order payment:
- DreamHost does not recommend physical payments due to security reasons and other issues that can arise when sending and processing physical payments.
- DreamHost only accept checks or money orders drawn on U.S. banks and denominated in US Dollars.
Upfront payments
If you are purchasing any items that require an upfront payment (such as a new domain registration or renewal), the payment must be made via a credit card only. This is because the payment processes immediately and the request is then automatically sent to the registry for you. You can also make a pre-payment with PayPal by following the instructions at:
You can also prepay with an Electronic Check / ACH but there is a one-week hold on the amount before it can be used to pay for the domain registration or any other items that require an upfront payment.
Are there any exceptions to these payment methods?
International cards
Some international or prepaid credit cards, even if they have a Visa/MasterCard logo on them, may not be accepted due to limitations set by their own financial institutions. You can refer to the card's issuing bank for specific terms of use.
Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrencies are currently not available for use at DreamHost.
Checks or money orders drawn from non-U.S. banks
DreamHost only accept checks or money orders drawn on U.S. banks and denominated in US Dollars.