Knowing your PayPal ID is very important if you use PayPal for online payments, freelance work, business transactions, or subscriptions. Many websites, apps, and payment platforms ask for it when you connect PayPal as a payment method. If you share the wrong PayPal ID or forget it, payments may get delayed, fail, or go to the wrong account.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Is a PayPal ID
A PayPal ID is simply the primary email address associated with your PayPal account. This email acts as your payment identity on PayPal. When anyone sends money to you, PayPal checks this email to identify your account.
Your PayPal ID is not the same as your password or username. It is safe to share your PayPal ID with trusted people because it only allows others to send you money, not access your account. However, it should still be shared carefully to avoid scams.
If you have added multiple email addresses to your PayPal account, only the primary verified email works as your main PayPal ID. You can change or update it anytime from your account settings.
Difference Between PayPal ID and Merchant ID
Many people confuse PayPal ID with Merchant ID, especially business users. A PayPal ID is the email used for sending and receiving payments. A Merchant ID is a unique number assigned to PayPal business accounts.
Merchant ID is mostly used for payment integrations, invoices, and customer support. Some platforms ask for Merchant ID instead of an email to protect account privacy. Personal PayPal users usually do not need Merchant ID, but business accounts often do.
Both IDs serve different purposes, and knowing which one a platform requires helps avoid setup issues.
Why Do You Need Your PayPal ID
You need your PayPal ID to receive money from others. Freelancers, online sellers, and service providers often share it with customers to collect payments. Without it, sending money is not possible.
Many websites require your PayPal ID when linking PayPal for withdrawals or subscriptions. It is also used for account verification to confirm that you own the PayPal account.
PayPal customer support may ask for your PayPal ID when resolving disputes, account limitations, or payment problems. It helps them locate your account quickly and provide correct support.
Keeping your PayPal ID accurate ensures payments reach you without delays or confusion.
How to Find Your PayPal ID on a Computer
First, open your web browser and visit the PayPal website. Click on the Log In button and enter your registered email and password. If security verification is enabled, enter the code sent to your phone or email.
After logging in, you will see your PayPal dashboard. Look at the top right corner and click on your profile icon or the settings gear icon. This will open your account settings.
Inside account settings, go to the Email section or Account Information. The email address displayed there is your PayPal ID. If you have multiple emails, check which one is marked as primary and verified.
For business accounts, you can also find your Merchant ID by opening Business Information. This section shows your business details and unique merchant number.
How to Find Your PayPal ID on the Mobile App
Open the PayPal app on your smartphone and sign in using your email and password. If two-step verification is enabled, complete the security check.
Once logged in, tap on your profile picture or menu icon at the top of the screen. Select Settings from the menu.
Open Account Information and look for your registered email address. This email is your PayPal ID. If more than one email is linked, confirm which one is primary.
Business users can scroll down and open Business Information to view their Merchant ID. Some options may not appear on mobile, so checking from a desktop may help.
How to Add or Change Your PayPal ID
You can change your PayPal ID by adding a new email address to your account. Open account settings and go to the Email section. Click on Add New Email and enter the new email address.
PayPal will send a verification email. Once verified, you can make it your primary PayPal ID. The old email can also be removed if no longer needed.
This is useful if you stop using an email or want a dedicated email for payments.
How to Check If Your PayPal ID Is Verified
Verification is important because unverified emails may cause payment delays. To check verification status, open your account settings and view your email list.
If an email is verified, it will show a confirmed status. If not, click on the verify option and complete the verification process through your inbox.
Always use a verified PayPal ID to receive payments smoothly.
Common Issues When Finding Your PayPal ID
Some users cannot log in due to forgotten passwords or incorrect email. Resetting the password usually fixes this problem. Poor internet connection can also prevent login.
Sometimes the settings or profile option does not appear. Updating the PayPal app or using a desktop browser usually solves this issue.
Using an old or inactive email can cause payment failures. Always make sure your primary email is active and verified.
Business users may not see Merchant ID on the mobile app. Accessing PayPal from a computer helps in such cases.
Account limitations or security holds can restrict access to settings. Checking PayPal notification emails explains the reason.
Security Tips for Using Your PayPal ID
Always double-check your PayPal ID before sharing it. Sending money to the wrong email may cause delays.
Never post your PayPal ID publicly on social media or forums. Scammers can misuse it for fake payment messages.
Enable two-step verification on your PayPal account for extra security. Regularly update your password and review login activity.
Use a strong and unique email password if it is linked to PayPal.
Conclusion
Finding your PayPal ID is simple once you know where to look. Your registered email address works as your PayPal ID and can be found in account settings on both desktop and mobile.
Keeping your PayPal ID verified and secure ensures smooth payments and prevents errors. Always double-check the email before sharing it and use trusted platforms only. A correct PayPal ID helps you receive money quickly, safely, and without confusion.
FAQs
Where can I find PayPal Merchant ID
PayPal Merchant ID is available only for business accounts. You can find it by going to Account Settings and then Business Information on the PayPal website. It may not always appear on the mobile app.
Can I receive money without PayPal ID
No, you cannot receive money without a PayPal ID. Senders need your PayPal ID to transfer funds to your account. Without it, payments cannot be completed.
Is it safe to share my PayPal ID
Yes, it is generally safe to share your PayPal ID to receive payments. However, you should only share it with trusted people or platforms to avoid scams and fake payment messages.
What happens if I share the wrong PayPal ID
If you share the wrong PayPal ID, the payment may fail or go to another account. This can cause delays and may require refund requests. Always double-check your email before sharing.
Can I change my PayPal ID anytime
Yes, you can change your PayPal ID by adding a new email address and making it primary. After verification, the new email will work as your PayPal ID.
