How to Delete Your PayPal Account Permanently

PayPal faces criticism ex-employee (signal amplified by former PayPal CEO Elon Musk) and users alike after news of a policy update that would fine customers $2,500 for promoting misinformation about its services went viral. The policy, posted online as a leaked document, stated November 3 as the effective date, but soon after the news broke, PayPal released a statement said the policy contained “incorrect information”.

And so it turns out PayPal won’t be penalizing people for “misinformation” — for now.

However, the political misfires have tarnished the image of the popular online payment system, and many users are now turning their backs on PayPal. For example, on Twitter you will see hashtags like #paypalcancelled and #byebyepaypal trend, and PayPal’s stock has taken a big hit as a direct result.

Whatever the reason, PayPal isn’t for everyone, and if you’re concerned about being a user, it might be time to go permanently — especially with Venmo, cash app, cell and many other options for online payments.

Do not miss: Best Payment Apps: Apple Cash, Cash App, PayPal and more

If you want to leave PayPal permanently, follow the steps below.

Before you close your PayPal account

Make sure your account has no remaining balance, account restriction (usually a temporary restriction preventing you from withdrawing, sending, or receiving money), or other unresolved issues. Even if you tried, you wouldn’t be able to close your PayPal account with any of these issues, so make sure you sort them out first.

How to permanently delete your PayPal account

You can close your PayPal account using the PayPal app on your smartphone and tablet, or on your desktop through the PayPal website. Below we show you both methods:

On desktop:

• Sign in to your PayPal account in any web browser.
• Click the gear icon in the top right corner to view your account settings.
• Under the Account scroll all the way down and click Close your account.
• Finally strike close account on the pop-up that appears.

On the phone:

• Open the PayPal app and sign in.
• Tap your profile icon in the top left.
• Scroll down and tap Close your account.
• Finally strike close account.

If you have a work account and are trying to delete it on mobile, you need to tap your profile icon > Account Information > Close your account > close accountwhich means just one extra step.

Once your PayPal account is closed, you will not be able to view your transaction history, nor request or send money to other PayPal users with that account. And all recurring payments, e.g. B. with your phone bill or streaming subscription linked to your PayPal account will be terminated, so make sure you update these payment options.