Your PayPal Account ID is a unique number PayPal assigns to your account when you sign up

Your PayPal Account ID is a 13-digit number that identifies your account in PayPal's system. It is different from your email address, username, or phone number. PayPal generates this ID automatically and keeps it the same for the life of your account, even if you change your email or other details.

You will need this ID when you contact PayPal support about a transaction, dispute, or account issue. Some third-party services that connect to PayPal also ask for it during setup. It is not the same as your transaction ID (which tracks individual payments) or your routing and account numbers (which are only used for bank transfers).

Key Takeaways

  • Your PayPal Account ID is a 13-digit number assigned when you create your account and never changes.
  • You can find it in your Account Settings under the Personal Information section, or in the details of any transaction you have made.
  • PayPal support will ask for this ID if you report a problem, so having it ready speeds up the process.
  • Your Account ID is different from your email, username, transaction ID, and bank account number.

How to find your Account ID in PayPal settings

Log into your PayPal account on the website or app. On the website, click the gear icon in the top right corner and select Account Settings. On the app, tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) and go to Settings.

Look for the Personal Information section. Your Account ID will be listed there as a 13-digit number. Write it down or take a screenshot so you have it when you need it. If you cannot find it in Personal Information, check under Account or Profile — the exact location varies slightly depending on whether you use the website or mobile app.

Finding your Account ID on a transaction receipt

If you have made a payment or received money through PayPal, you can find your Account ID on the transaction details. Go to your Activity or History section and click on any transaction. Scroll down to see the full transaction details.

Your Account ID will appear in the details section, usually labeled as "Recipient Account ID" or "Sender Account ID" depending on whether you sent or received the money. This method works even if you have trouble accessing your Account Settings.

When PayPal support will ask for your Account ID

If you contact PayPal about a disputed transaction, a payment that did not go through, or an account security issue, the support agent will ask for your Account ID to pull up your account. Having it ready means the agent can start helping you right away instead of asking you to look it up while you are on the phone or in a chat.

You may also need it if you are setting up a business integration with a third-party payment processor or accounting software. Some services require your Account ID to connect securely to your PayPal account. Always verify that you are giving this information to a legitimate business — never share it with someone who contacts you unsolicited.

The difference between Account ID and other PayPal numbers

Your Account ID identifies your entire PayPal account. Your Transaction ID (also called a confirmation number) identifies a single payment or transfer and changes with each transaction. If you are tracking a specific payment, you need the Transaction ID, not the Account ID.

If you link a bank account to PayPal, you will also have a routing number and account number for that bank — these are not the same as your PayPal Account ID and are only used for direct bank transfers. Your email address and username are login credentials, not account identifiers. PayPal support will always ask for your Account ID, not your password or full email address, when you contact them.

What to do if you cannot locate your Account ID

If you have looked in Account Settings and cannot find it, try logging out and back in. Sometimes the page needs to refresh to display all information. If you still cannot see it, check your email for any PayPal statements or receipts — your Account ID may be listed there.

If none of these steps work, contact PayPal support directly through the Help Center. Go to Help in your account, select your issue, and choose to chat or call. Tell the agent you need your Account ID. They can verify your identity and provide it to you. This is the only secure way to get your Account ID if you cannot find it yourself.

Keeping your Account ID safe

Your Account ID is not as sensitive as your password or Social Security number, but you should still treat it as private information. Do not post it on social media or share it in public forums. Only give it to PayPal support or to a legitimate business you are actively working with.

Scammers sometimes call or email claiming to be PayPal and ask for your Account ID along with other information. PayPal will never ask you for your password, full credit card number, or Social Security number via email or unsolicited phone call. If someone contacts you asking for these details, hang up or delete the message and contact PayPal directly through the official app or website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my PayPal Account ID the same as my username?

No. Your username is what you use to log in (or your email address if you do not have a username). Your Account ID is a 13-digit number PayPal assigns to your account. You can change your username, but your Account ID never changes.

Can I use my Account ID to log into PayPal?

No. You log in with your email address or username and password. Your Account ID is only used to identify your account when you contact support or set up third-party integrations.

What if I have multiple PayPal accounts?

Each PayPal account has its own unique 13-digit Account ID. If you manage more than one account, each one will have a different ID. Make sure you are looking at the correct account when you need the ID.

Do I need my Account ID to send or receive money?

No. You send money using someone's email address or phone number linked to their PayPal account. You do not need their Account ID to make a payment. The Account ID is mainly for support and business integrations.

Is my Account ID visible to other PayPal users?

No. Other users cannot see your Account ID. Only you, PayPal, and PayPal support can access it. It does not appear on receipts or confirmations that other people receive.