What you need to create a PayPal account

You can set up a PayPal account in about 10 minutes using a computer, tablet, or phone. You will need a valid email address, a password you create, and either a debit card, credit card, or bank account number to link to your account. PayPal does not charge you to open an account — the account itself is free.

If you are under 18, you cannot open a PayPal account in your own name. A parent or guardian can open an account and add you as an authorized user, or you can wait until you turn 18.

Key Takeaways

  • You need an email address, a password, and either a debit card, credit card, or bank account to start — PayPal does not charge to open an account.
  • PayPal will ask you to confirm your email address and verify your identity before you can send money or receive payments.
  • Linking a bank account takes longer to verify than a card, but gives you more ways to move money in and out.
  • Your account is ready to receive money as soon as you finish the signup steps, but sending money requires identity verification first.

Step 1: Go to PayPal and start the signup

Open a web browser and go to paypal.com. Look for a button that says "Sign Up" — it is usually at the top right of the page. Click it, and PayPal will ask you whether you want a Personal account or a Business account. Choose Personal unless you are setting this up for a business you own.

On the next screen, enter your email address. This is the address people will use to send you money, so use one you check regularly. PayPal will send you a confirmation email to this address, so make sure you typed it correctly.

Step 2: Create a password and enter your name

PayPal will ask you to create a password. Use something you have not used on other websites. A strong password has at least 8 characters and mixes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols — for example, "BlueSky#2024!" is stronger than "password123".

Enter your first and last name as PayPal requests it. This name will appear on transactions, so use the name that matches your bank account or ID if you plan to link those later.

Step 3: Confirm your email address

PayPal will send an email to the address you provided. Open that email and look for a link or button that says "Confirm Your Email" or "Verify Email Address". Click it. This step proves you own the email address and can receive messages from PayPal.

If you do not see the email within a few minutes, check your spam or junk folder — sometimes PayPal emails end up there by mistake. If you still cannot find it, go back to PayPal and ask them to send the confirmation email again.

Step 4: Add a payment method

PayPal will ask you to link a debit card, credit card, or bank account. You can add more than one later, but you need at least one now. If you choose a card, enter the card number, expiration date, and the three-digit security code on the back. If you choose a bank account, enter your routing number and account number — you can find these on a check or by logging into your bank's website.

PayPal will ask for your billing address (the address on your card or bank account statement). Enter it exactly as it appears on your statement, including the zip code.

Step 5: Verify your identity

PayPal may ask you to verify your identity before you can send money. This usually means entering your date of birth and the last four digits of your Social Security number. PayPal uses this information to check that you are who you say you are and to follow federal money-transfer rules.

If you linked a bank account, PayPal may send two small deposits (usually less than $1 each) to that account. You will need to log into your bank and tell PayPal the exact amounts of those deposits. This process can take several business days, but it proves you own the bank account.

Step 6: Set up security features

PayPal will offer you the chance to turn on two-factor authentication, which adds an extra layer of security. With two-factor authentication turned on, anyone trying to log into your account from a new device will need to enter a code that PayPal sends to your phone or email. This makes it much harder for someone else to access your account if they somehow learn your password.

You can also set a security question and answer — PayPal will ask you this question if you ever need to reset your password. Choose a question only you can answer, like the name of your first pet or the street you grew up on.

Step 7: You are ready to use your account

Once you have confirmed your email and added a payment method, your account is set up. You can receive money right away — just give someone your email address and they can send you funds. Sending money to others usually works when ready after identity verification is complete, though some new accounts have a waiting period of a few days.

Log into your account anytime by going to paypal.com and clicking "Log In". Enter your email address and password. If you turned on two-factor authentication, PayPal will also ask for the code sent to your phone or email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use PayPal without linking a bank account or card?

No — PayPal requires at least one payment method to open an account. You can use a debit card, credit card, or bank account. Once your account is open, you can receive money and hold it in your PayPal balance without linking anything else, but you need one method to start.

How long does it take to verify a bank account?

Linking a debit or credit card usually verifies when ready or within a few minutes. A bank account takes longer — PayPal sends two small deposits that you have to confirm, which can take three to five business days. After you confirm the amounts, your bank account is verified.

What happens if I forget my password?

Go to paypal.com and click "Log In". Below the login boxes, click "Forgot Your Password?" PayPal will send a reset link to your email address. Click the link and create a new password. If you set up a security question, PayPal may ask you to answer it first.

Can I change my email address after I create my account?

Yes. Log into your account, go to Settings, and look for "Email Address" or "Contact Information". You can add a new email address and set it as your primary one. Your old email address will no longer work to log in or receive money.

Is it safe to link my bank account to PayPal?

PayPal uses encryption and security measures to protect your information. You share your routing number and account number the same way you would with any online bill-pay service. Never share your PayPal password with anyone, and always log in through paypal.com rather than clicking links in emails.