Managing a PayPal account isn't always easy. The company operates in more than 200 countries, and its policies vary by region. If you ever change your legal name and email address, remember to update your PayPal information. Otherwise, you might end up having your account suspended or banned.
Tip
Customers can update their personal or business information on PayPal from the Settings page. If you need to change your name or other sensitive information, you'll need to provide a copy of your ID and other legal documents, such as a credit card statement.
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Change Your Name on PayPal
PayPal has been in business since 1998, offering financial services for individuals and companies. Its customers can make payments in over 100 currencies and hold balances in 25 currencies, according to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The company has subsidiaries all over the world, and its operations comply with all applicable local laws in the countries where it does business.
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Most customers, including those in the U.S., can change their PayPal account name and other information, such as their PayPal username, email address and bank account details. First, you'll need to prepare a couple of documents, including a photo ID showing your real name. In some cases, PayPal may require a copy of your marriage certificate, a legal document issued by your bank or a recent utility bill. Next, take these steps to change your PayPal name:
- Open the PayPal website and log in to your account.
- Click Settings on the top right side of the page.
- Select Change Name on your profile page.
- Choose a reason for changing your name (e.g., a legal name change after marriage).
- Provide the necessary documents, such as a copy of your driver's license or bank statement.
- Click Change and wait to have your request approved.
In some cases, you may only need to make a minor correction to your name. For example, if your PayPal name has a typo, follow the steps listed above to correct it. Also, make sure you submit a clear copy of your ID. Your photo, date of birth, signature, current name and date of issue should be visible, with no blur or glare. Note that you cannot use another person's name (e.g., the name of your spouse) to update your account information.
Update Your Primary Email Address
PayPal customers can use up to eight email addresses, which may come in handy for those with joint accounts, explains the International Centre for Trade and Sustainable Development. This feature is also helpful for users who receive money from different sources and want to manage their finances more easily. However, you can only have one primary email address that can be changed or updated as needed.
- Open your web browser and log in to PayPal.
- Head over to the Settings page.
- Go to Emails (right side of the page) and click Change.
- Remove your current email address and add a new one.
- Click Save and wait to receive an email from PayPal.
- Log in to your email account and open the message from PayPal.
- Click Confirm My Email Address.
Alternatively, you can make changes via the PayPal mobile app. Simply log in to your account and click Email Addresses on the Android app or Emails on the iOS app. Follow the steps above, and you're done. These changes should come into effect immediately. Likewise, you can update your debit or credit card information or change your account settings via the PayPal app or website.
Another option is to create a PayPal.Me link and share it with your friends, customers or family members to split bills or receive payments. This feature allows you to keep your email address private and still get paid directly to your PayPal account.