PayPal SMS Verification
A careful guide to receiving a PayPal text code, and when not to.
PayPal holds money and card details, so it takes phone checks seriously. It can text a code when you sign up, when you log in, or when you change something about your account.
Before you buy a number, read this page. A PayPal account that holds funds should be linked to a number you control long-term. SMS Activate rents numbers for a short time, and we do not recommend them for accounts you depend on. If you still have a one-off need, you can receive the text code here, and an activation with no SMS in 20 minutes is refunded to your wallet.
How to verify PayPal in 5 steps
- 1Open the dashboard and choose PayPal from the service list.
- 2Pick a country and buy a number.
- 3Enter the number where PayPal asks for it.
- 4Request the code once and watch your dashboard.
- 5Enter the code, then link a number you keep if the account matters.
Why PayPal asks for a number
The number is part of how PayPal confirms that the person logging in is the account owner. It can send a code to the number as a second step, and it may use the number to review a risky payment.
If you lose the number, getting back in takes extra steps with PayPal's support, and you may need to provide documents. That is a lot of trouble to take on for a small saving.
When a rented number is reasonable
Some people only want to test a sign-up flow, check how a checkout page behaves, or complete a one-time verification for a sandbox or demo account. Those are low-stakes uses.
For an account that holds money, link a number you own and keep, add a second number, and turn on the extra security options. Use your real name and details.
The honest limits
PayPal checks numbers carefully. It can refuse a number that looks like it comes from a virtual provider, and it can ask you to try again later. We cannot promise that any given number will work.
Do not try many numbers on the same account in a row. Repeated failures can restrict an account. If the first number is refused, stop, wait, and think about whether a different approach fits your need.
Price and refunds
Numbers for payment services usually cost a little more than for social apps, around a few cents to a couple of dollars. Your wallet is charged when the number is issued.
If no SMS arrives within 20 minutes, the charge goes back to your wallet. The cancellation rules for your order are shown in the dashboard.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use a rented number for a PayPal account with money in it?
No. Use a number you will keep. A rented number will not be yours later.
Why does PayPal refuse the number?
PayPal decides which numbers it accepts. Wait, then try another if you must.
Do you handle payments for PayPal?
No. We rent numbers for receiving a text code only.
What if no SMS arrives?
The order is refunded to your wallet after 20 minutes.
Other popular services
Related services
Snapchat verificationSign up for Snapchat with a number that is not your personal one.
Tinder verificationVerify a Tinder login with a separate number and keep your own private.
Steam verificationReceive a Steam text code without tying your main number to the account.
Microsoft verificationReceive a Microsoft account text code, with the limits stated up front.
LinkedIn verificationVerify a LinkedIn account without using your personal number.
Airbnb verificationGet the Airbnb sign-up text on a number you do not have to share.