Difference between logging a transfer as “transfer” and “personal withdrawal” from a PayPal linked account to personal bank account, are both categories automatically excluded?

Hi there, @FixThis.

Yes. Withdrawal transactions are categorized as Transfer in QuickBooks Self-Employed. Thus, both personal and transfer transactions will not affect your self-employment taxes. It'll automatically be excluded from our calculations for estimated taxes or business expenses.

You can read this article to know more about the owner's withdrawal: Transfers: Owner's Withdrawal.

Also, feel free to check out this article to learn more about categorizing transactions: Categorize and edit transactions in QuickBooks Self-Employed.

Please let me know if you need clarification about this, or there's anything else I can do for you. I'll be standing by for your response. Have a great day and be safe.