Where to find the name change option in PayPal
To change your name on PayPal, log into your account on the PayPal website or app, go to Settings (the gear icon), then select Personal info. You'll see your current first and last name displayed there. Click the Edit button next to your name, type in your new name, and click Confirm. The change takes effect when ready in your account.
If you're using the mobile app, the path is slightly different: tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines), scroll to Settings, tap Personal info, then tap the pencil icon next to your name to edit it. The process is the same once you're in the edit screen.
PayPal does not send you a confirmation email when you change your name, so check your account right after to make sure the change went through. Your updated name will appear on any invoices or payment receipts you send going forward.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your name yourself through Settings > Personal info without contacting PayPal support.
- The name change takes effect when ready and applies to future transactions and receipts.
- If your account is limited or restricted, you may not be able to change your name until the restriction is lifted.
- Changing your name on PayPal does not automatically update it on your linked bank account or payment methods.
When you need to change your name on PayPal
You might need to change your name on PayPal for several reasons: you've legally changed your name, you got married or divorced, you made a typo when you first signed up, or you want to use a different version of your name (like a nickname or middle name instead of your first name).
If you're changing your name because of a legal name change, you don't need to provide PayPal with court documents or a marriage certificate. PayPal allows you to update your name in your account settings without proof. However, if your account is flagged for review or if you're trying to withdraw money, PayPal may ask you to verify your identity, and at that point they may request legal documentation that matches the name you're using.
What happens to your old name after you change it
Your old name does not stay visible in your account history. Once you change your name, it updates everywhere in your PayPal account—your profile, transaction history, and any future receipts or invoices will show your new name.
People who have sent you money in the past will still see the transaction in their own account history, but the name associated with that transaction on their end may or may not update depending on when they view it. If someone searches for you by your old name, they won't find you in PayPal's user search, because the system now recognizes you only by your new name.
If your account is limited or you can't change your name
If you try to change your name and the edit button is grayed out or you get an error message, your account may be limited or under review by PayPal. Limited accounts have restrictions on sending money, withdrawing funds, or changing account information until the issue is resolved.
To find out why your account is limited, go to Settings > Account limitations. PayPal will list the specific reason and what you need to do to restore full access. This might involve confirming your identity, providing additional information, or waiting for a review to complete. Once your account is no longer limited, you'll be able to change your name.
If you don't see an account limitations section, contact PayPal support through the Help section in your account. Explain that you're unable to edit your name and ask them to check your account status.
Changing your name on linked payment methods
Changing your name on PayPal does not automatically change it on your linked bank account, debit card, or credit card. Those are separate accounts managed by your bank or card issuer, and you'll need to update your name with them directly if you've had a legal name change.
If your name on your bank account doesn't match the name on your PayPal account, PayPal may flag this during verification or when you try to withdraw money. To avoid problems, update your name with your bank first, then update it on PayPal. This way everything stays in sync.
If you're using a business account or a debit card in someone else's name, the rules are different—contact PayPal support to discuss your specific situation.
Changing your name if you use PayPal for business
If you have a PayPal Business account, you can change your personal name the same way you would on a regular account (Settings > Personal info). However, the business name is separate and is managed differently.
To change your business name, go to Settings > Business info and click Edit next to the business name. You can change this independently of your personal name. If you've registered your business with your state or the IRS under a specific name, make sure the name you use on PayPal matches your official business registration, or you may run into problems when you withdraw money or file taxes.
What to do if you change your name but forget your password
If you've changed your name on PayPal and then can't remember your password, you can still log in using your email address. Go to the PayPal login page, enter your email, and click Next. Then click Forgot password? and follow the steps to reset it. Your email address doesn't change when you update your name, so this process works the same way it always has.
If you've also changed your email address recently and can't remember which one is linked to your PayPal account, you'll need to contact PayPal support. They can help you regain access to your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does changing my name on PayPal affect my account balance or transaction history?
No. Your balance, transaction history, and all account data remain exactly the same. Only the name displayed on your account and future receipts changes. Past transactions will show your new name if someone views them after the change.
Can I change my name on PayPal more than once?
Yes, you can change your name as many times as you want through the Settings menu. However, if you change it very frequently, PayPal may flag your account for review to make sure it's not being used fraudulently. If this happens, you may be asked to verify your identity.
Will my PayPal contacts be notified when I change my name?
No. PayPal does not send notifications to people you've done business with when you change your name. However, the next time they interact with you or view a receipt, they'll see your new name.
What if I want to change my name back to what it was before?
You can change it back anytime using the same Settings > Personal info process. There's no limit on how many times you can edit your name, and no waiting period between changes.
Do I need to change my name on my PayPal invoice or receipt settings?
No. Once you change your name in your personal info, it automatically updates on all invoices and receipts you generate going forward. You don't need to adjust any separate settings.