Your PayPal account number is in your Account Settings, not on your card or statement
PayPal does not display a traditional "account number" the way a bank does. What you're looking for is your PayPal account ID — a unique identifier that PayPal uses internally. You'll find it by logging into your account, going to Settings, then Account, and looking for "Account ID" in that section. It's a long string of numbers that stays the same for the life of your account.
If you're trying to receive money or set up a transfer, you usually don't need this ID at all. Most PayPal transactions work through your email address or phone number instead. The account ID matters mainly when you're contacting PayPal support about a specific issue, or when a third-party service asks for it directly — which is rare.
If you're looking for something else — like a reference number for a transaction you just made, or your routing and account number for a bank transfer — those are found in different places and serve different purposes. This guide covers where each one lives and when you actually need it.
Key Takeaways
- Your PayPal account ID is found in Settings > Account > Account ID and is a long number unique to your account.
- Most PayPal transactions use your email address or phone number, not your account ID, so you may never need it.
- If you're setting up a bank transfer from PayPal, you'll need your routing number and account number from the Transfers section, not your account ID.
- Transaction reference numbers are different from your account ID and appear in your transaction history for each individual payment.
- Never share your account ID, routing number, or account number with anyone who contacts you unsolicited.
How to locate your account ID in Settings
Log into PayPal on a computer or the mobile 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.
Once you're in Settings, look for the "Account" tab or section. Scroll down until you see "Account ID" — it will be a long string of numbers, usually 10 to 12 digits. You can copy it by clicking the copy icon next to it, or highlight and copy it manually. This ID never changes and is tied to your account permanently.
When you actually need your account ID
Most of the time, you don't. If you're sending or receiving money through PayPal, the other person needs your email address or phone number, not your account ID. If you're paying for something online, you just log in and authorize the payment.
You will need your account ID if PayPal support asks for it during a dispute or investigation. You may also need it if a third-party service — like accounting software or a payment processor — specifically requests it to link to your PayPal account. Before you give it to anyone, confirm they're asking for it as part of a legitimate service you initiated, not because they contacted you out of the blue.
The difference between account ID, routing number, and transaction reference
These three numbers serve completely different purposes and are found in different places. Your account ID is your permanent account identifier. Your routing number and account number are bank details PayPal uses when you transfer money to your linked bank account — you'll find these in the Transfers section under "Transfer to Your Bank," not in Account Settings. Your transaction reference number is a unique code for a single payment you made or received, and it appears in your transaction history.
If someone asks you for your "account number," clarify what they actually need. If they want to send you money through PayPal, they need your email or phone. If they're setting up a withdrawal to your bank, they need your bank's routing number and your bank account number — not your PayPal account ID. If they're following up on a specific payment, they need the transaction reference number from that transaction.
How to find your bank routing and account number for transfers
If you're setting up a transfer from PayPal to your bank account, you'll need your bank's routing number and your own account number at that bank. Log into PayPal, go to Wallet, and click "Transfer Money." Select "Transfer to Your Bank." PayPal will show you the routing number and account number it has on file for your linked bank account.
If you're linking a new bank account, PayPal will walk you through the process. You can find your routing number on the bottom left of any check from that bank, or by calling the bank directly. Your account number is on the bottom right of your checks, or you can log into your bank's website to find it. Never share these numbers with anyone except PayPal or your bank.
What to do if you can't find your account ID
If you've looked in Settings > Account and don't see "Account ID" listed, it's possible your account type doesn't display it in that location, or the interface has changed slightly depending on your region. Try logging out and back in, or switch between the website and the mobile app to see if it appears in one but not the other.
If you still can't locate it, contact PayPal support directly through the Help Center. Go to Help > Contact Us and describe what you're trying to do. PayPal support can confirm your account ID and explain why you need it for your specific situation. They can also tell you whether you actually need the account ID or whether an email address or phone number will work instead.
Protecting your account ID and other sensitive numbers
Your account ID is less sensitive than your password or Social Security number, but it's still part of your account information. Don't share it in emails, texts, or chat messages unless you initiated contact with a service you trust. If someone contacts you claiming to be from PayPal and asks for your account ID, routing number, or account number, do not give it to them. PayPal will never ask for these details unsolicited.
If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from PayPal, forward it to spoof@paypal.com and delete it. Log into your PayPal account directly (don't click any links in the message) and check your account for any unauthorized activity. If you see transactions you didn't make, report them through the Resolution Center when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my PayPal account ID the same as my account number?
No. Your account ID is PayPal's internal identifier for your account. If you're transferring money to your bank, you need your bank account number, not your PayPal account ID. These are two different things.
Can I use my account ID to receive money from someone?
No. To receive money through PayPal, give the other person your email address or phone number associated with your account. They don't need your account ID. If they ask for it, they may be confused about what information they actually need.
What if I lost access to my account and need my account ID?
Contact PayPal support through the Help Center. Explain that you've lost access to your account and need help recovering it. They can verify your identity and help you regain access without needing you to provide your account ID first.
Does my account ID change if I update my email address?
No. Your account ID stays the same for the life of your account, even if you change your email address, phone number, or other account details. It's a permanent identifier tied to your account.
Why does PayPal ask for my account ID sometimes?
PayPal support may ask for your account ID during a dispute or investigation to confirm they're looking at the right account. Some third-party services also request it to link to your PayPal account. Always confirm you're dealing with PayPal directly before sharing it.