If you’re looking to open a PayPal account, and are wondering about the requirements, you might want to know: does PayPal require proof of SSN to have an account?
If so, keep reading to learn all you need to know about PayPal and its requirements for opening and maintaining an account!
Do I Need Proof of SSN on PayPal In [currentyear]?
PayPal requires users accepting money to provide their SSN in [currentyear]. However, the company will not ask for proof such as an SSN card. Rather, the company will use your SSN along with your name, age, and address to verify your identity. Note, though, that PayPal may request more information if there’s a problem confirming the accountholder’s identity.
Do you want to know more about whether PayPal requires proof of an SSN in order to have an account? If so, read on to learn what we’ve found out!
Does PayPal Require an SSN to Open an Account?
PayPal typically doesn’t require an SSN to open a personal account. However, without an SSN on file, you will be limited to purchasing only.
In order to receive money on PayPal, you will need an SSN or other valid TIN on file.
How Can I open a PayPal Account Without an SSN?
You can open a PayPal account without an SSN, but you will not be able to receive funds.
You can also use an EIN or other valid TIN if you don’t have an SSN. Government agencies trying to open a PayPal account also have special options.
Do I need an SSN for a Business PayPal Account?
Instead of using an SSN, you can use a federal EIN when opening a PayPal business account.
Why Does PayPal Require an SSN?
PayPal requires an SSN because the federal government requires the company to follow certain requirements around banking transactions, as well as reporting to the IRS.
Will PayPal Make Me Send Proof of SSN?
PayPal usually doesn’t require proof of your SSN as the company digitally verifies your identity. However, there is a very slim chance that PayPal would ask for documentation.
If you’re asked for proof of identity, such as your SSN, be sure to check that it’s really PayPal and not a scam.
How Does PayPal Know the SSN Provided Is Mine?
PayPal has the ability to electronically verify that the information provided matches financial records.
What Happens If I Use a Different SSN?
If you try to use a different SSN than your own, PayPal will detect it and prevent you from signing up.
Even if you make it through the signup process, PayPal will find out at some point and permanently ban you.
As well, there are criminal penalties associated with falsifying financial records and using someone else’s SSN.
What Happens If I Don’t Have an SSN for PayPal?
If you don’t have an SSN or another valid TIN, you won’t be able to open a PayPal account and send or receive money.
Will PayPal Ever Ask For My SSN over the Phone?
There are times when PayPal will ask for your SSN in order to verify your identity. However, the company will usually only ask for the last four digits of your SSN.
Will PayPal Ever Request My SSN by Email?
PayPal will never request your SSN by email.
If you’re going back and forth with a PayPal representative in a live chat, you may be asked for the first four digits, but this will not be through email.
What Happens If I Refuse to Provide My SSN?
If you refuse to provide an SSN, you will not be able to receive money using PayPal.
Likewise, if you refuse to provide your SSN when contacting support, the company may not be able to help address your problem.
Does PayPal Report to Credit Bureaus Using Your SSN?
PayPal doesn’t regularly report to credit bureaus as a credit card company would.
The only instance where PayPal will report to the credit bureaus is if you get a loan through the company, or if your account becomes negative and goes to collections.
Does PayPal Report to the IRS Using Your SSN?
PayPal does report to the IRS using your SSN or other TIN.
It’s very important that you fully understand all of the tax implications before you start accepting money through PayPal, as you will likely receive for 1099-K at the beginning of each year.
To know more, you can also read our posts on PayPal post-pay, PayPal negative balance, and PayPal login activity.
Conclusion
PayPal accounts accepting payments must have an SSN connected to them. This is required by the government to keep track of people using PayPal to conduct business.
However, you don’t necessarily need an SSN to signup for a PayPal account if you just want to use it to pay for goods. You also don’t need an SSN if you have an EIN that you will be using as part of your business.
