To access your PayPal account, go directly to the official PayPal website or open the official PayPal app, then log in using the email address and password associated with your account. This is the fastest way to access my PayPal account when you remember your credentials and have your usual device handy.
How to access my PayPal account: the standard login
When you remember your password, logging in is straightforward. Always type the address PayPal.com yourself into your browser's address bar rather than clicking a link from an email or text message. On the login page, enter your email address and your password. If you are using a trusted personal device, you can check the "Stay Logged In" option to avoid re-entering your credentials each time. Then click the login button to reach your account dashboard.
The "Stay Logged In" option is also available on the app if you are on a personal device. Whether you are on desktop or mobile, the login page is the entry point, and the steps do not change between web and app versions.
Reset your PayPal password when you've forgotten it
If you have forgotten your password, the reset process is the only way back in. On the login page, click the "Forgot password?" link. You will then enter the email address you use for PayPal and click Next. PayPal will ask you to complete a security check; choose the method that works for you and follow the prompts. Once the security check is complete, you can create a new password. Your new password must be 8 to 20 characters long and include at least one number or symbol. If you are using the PayPal app, the same steps apply, just tap instead of clicking.
After entering it and clicking Next, you will be presented with options for completing the security check, such as receiving a code via email or answering security questions. Choose the option that is available to you and follow the on-screen instructions. Once the security check is complete, you will be able to create a new password. In the app, the flow is identical: tap "Forgot password?" on the login screen, enter your email, tap Next, complete the security check, and then create a new password. The password requirement of 8-20 characters with at least one number or symbol applies to both web and app.
If you have also forgotten which email address you used for your PayPal account, PayPal has a separate help article for that scenario. Visit the PayPal help center and search for "How do I reset my password if I forgot my email address" to find the specific steps for recovering your account when you cannot recall your email.
What to do if you changed your mobile number and can't log in
If you have changed your mobile number and have 2-step verification turned on, you will not receive the verification codes sent to your old number. This prevents you from logging in normally. The only route forward is PayPal's account recovery process. Follow the recovery steps provided on the login screen to verify your identity and regain access. Once you are back in your account, update your mobile number immediately in your security settings so future codes arrive correctly. This is also a good time to consider how you use PayPal credit if you ever need to finance a purchase, as having a current phone number is essential for secure transactions.
The account recovery process may ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions, providing information about recent transactions, or confirming a linked bank account or credit card. Follow each step carefully. After you regain access, go to your account security settings and update your mobile number right away. If you no longer want to use 2-step verification, you can deactivate it at any time from your account security settings once you are logged in. This will allow you to log in without receiving a code to your phone.
Other login problems and how to solve them
If you still cannot log in after resetting your password or recovering your account, try clearing your browser's cache and cookies. This removes stored data that may interfere with the login page. If you need to add a bank account to PayPal for withdrawals or funding, you can do that from the Wallet section after logging in. Similarly, if you want to put money in a PayPal account, you can add funds from a linked bank account once you are inside your account. For any remaining issues, use the "Contact Us" link at the bottom of any PayPal page to reach customer support.
Clearing your browser's cache and cookies is a simple step that can resolve many login issues. In most browsers, you can find this option in the settings or history menu. After clearing, close your browser completely and then reopen it before trying to log in again. If you are using the PayPal app, try closing the app completely and reopening it, or restarting your phone. If the problem persists, ensure that your app is updated to the latest version from your device's app store.
Once you are successfully logged in, take a moment to review your account security settings. You can update your mobile number, change your password, and adjust your 2-step verification preferences. Keeping your contact information current will help you avoid login problems in the future. If you need to add a bank account to PayPal, go to the Wallet section and click "Link a bank account." Enter your bank details and follow the verification steps. If you want to put money in a PayPal account, you can add funds from a linked bank account by clicking "Add Money" in the Wallet section.
