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You can cancel your PayPal account if you no longer use the online payment service. However, this function is somewhat hidden—both in the browser and in the app.
Step-by-step instructions: Cancel PayPal account (browser)
If you still have credit in your PayPal account, you cannot delete the account. Transfer the credit to your bank account after logging in. Account closure is also only possible if there are no outstanding payments, chargebacks, or buyer protection cases.
- Check your balance and transfer it: Log in to the PayPal website and check whether you have any credit remaining. Transfer this amount to your registered bank account or use a payout to a linked card.
- Clear open transactions: Go to the “Activity” overview and check whether there are any ongoing payments, buyer protection cases, or chargebacks. Close or cancel these if necessary.
- Remove linked payment methods: Under “Wallet,” you can delete all stored bank accounts, credit cards, or debit cards to prevent further charges.
- To change your settings: Click on the gear icon in the upper right corner and scroll down to the “Close account” option.
- Confirm requests: Follow the steps shown on the screen, optionally enter a reason for closing your account, and confirm twice by clicking “Continue.”
- Completion: You will receive an email confirming the successful closure of your PayPal account.
Step-by-step instructions for closing an account (PayPal app)
In this section, you will learn how to close your PayPal account in the app.
- Open the app and log in: Launch the PayPal app for iOS or Android and log in.
- Withdraw remaining balance: Tap “PayPal balance” and select “Transfer to bank account” or “Withdraw to card.”
- Check transactions: Under “Activity,” you can see all current payments and disputes. Complete these in full.
- Remove payment sources: Go to “Wallet” in the app and delete all linked accounts or cards.
- Open settings: Tap on your profile picture or the gear icon and scroll down to “Close account.”
- Confirm: Follow the app instructions, select a reason, and confirm the process.
Ensuring a smooth PayPal account closure
To ensure that there are no outstanding payments, disputes, buyer protection claims, or chargebacks before you close your PayPal account, follow these steps:
- Check your transaction history: Go to your PayPal account and check the “Activity” list.
- Resolve any outstanding disputes: Contact sellers or buyers to resolve any issues and close any disputes.
- Complete chargebacks: Check with your bank to see if any pending chargebacks have been fully processed.
- Remove payment methods: Delete all linked bank accounts and credit cards.
- Contact support: If you have any questions, PayPal customer service is available by phone or live chat.
