Creating a PayPal account without a phone number is one of the most common challenges for users who prefer online payments but do not have access to a stable mobile line. PayPal is one of the safest global payment systems, but it normally requires phone verification for account security, identity confirmation, and two-factor authentication.
So the big question is: Can you actually create a PayPal account without a phone number?
The short answer is: not completely, because PayPal will eventually require some type of phone verification. However, there are safe and valid methods that allow you to register, access your account, and verify it using alternative numbers.
In this detailed guide, you will learn everything about setting up PayPal safely, what limitations you may face, and how tools like buy google voice number online or buy sms online can help you keep your account secure.
Why PayPal Requires a Phone Number
Before starting, it’s important to understand why PayPal insists on phone verification:
- Security & 2FA:
PayPal uses SMS codes to confirm your identity during login or when sending money.
- Fraud Prevention:
Phone verification reduces the number of fake or automated accounts.
- Account Recovery:
If you forget your password, your phone number helps recover your account quickly.
Because of these reasons, PayPal rarely allows long-term use of an account that has no phone number linked to it.
Can You Create a PayPal Account Without a Phone Number?
Technically, you can begin the registration with only an email and password, depending on your region. But as soon as you try to:
- Send money
- Receive funds
- Withdraw to a bank
- Change security settings
…PayPal will request phone verification.
So instead of trying to “avoid” a phone number, the proper approach is to use a reliable virtual number, not a disposable one. This ensures the account stays active without getting limited or suspended.
That’s where services such as buy google voice number online or buy sms online become useful.
.webp)
How to Create a PayPal Account Without Using Your Personal Phone Number
Below is the safest method that works globally.
Step 1: Choose a Stable Virtual Phone Number
You need a number that:
- Can receive SMS codes
- Does not expire quickly
- Is not used by thousands of other users
- Has a clean history
You should avoid free disposable SMS sites because PayPal instantly flags them as spam.
Instead, use a trusted virtual number provider. Many users prefer to:
- buy google voice number online → Google Voice numbers are stable for long-term use.
- buy sms online → These services give you private numbers for verification.
After purchasing the number, make sure you have access to SMS in real time.
Step 2: Go to PayPal Website and Click “Sign Up”
Visit:
https://www.paypal.com
Choose the type of account:
- Personal Account → For daily shopping, receiving small payments
- Business Account → For sellers, freelancers, online stores
Most users start with a Personal account.
Step 3: Enter Your Email and Create a Password
PayPal’s registration begins with:
- Email address
- Password
Tip: Use an email that you always have access to. Avoid temporary emails because PayPal may require verification later.
Step 4: Fill in Your Personal Information
PayPal will ask for:
- First & last name
- Country
- Address
- Date of birth
This information must be accurate. Incorrect details can cause future account limitations.
Step 5: When PayPal Asks for a Phone Number, Enter Your Virtual Number
This is the key part.
When the system prompts you for a phone number:
- Enter the virtual number you purchased.
- Choose the correct country code.
- Click Next.
Your virtual number will receive an SMS containing a 6-digit verification code.
Step 6: Enter the Verification Code from SMS
Open your SMS dashboard, copy the verification code, and paste it into PayPal.
If you used a high-quality number from a reliable service, the verification will succeed without issues.
Again, avoid risky temporary SMS websites. PayPal instantly blocks such numbers.
Step 7: Complete Email Verification
PayPal will send you an email.
Click Confirm Your Email to activate your account.
Step 8: Optional – Add a Bank Account or Card
To fully use your PayPal account, you may add:
- A debit card
- A credit card
- A virtual card
- A bank account (depending on your country)
This step increases account limits and reduces the chances of restriction.
Benefits of Using a Virtual Number for PayPal
- Privacy
You do not need to share your personal phone number online.
- Stability
Virtual numbers purchased from reliable providers are long-term and secure.
- Accessibility
If you travel or switch SIM cards, your PayPal login remains safe.
- Security
Virtual numbers help separate business and personal accounts.
.webp)
Important Warning About Disposable Numbers
Never use:
- Free SMS activation websites
- Shared public numbers
- Numbers with unknown ownership
PayPal tracks these numbers and blocks them immediately. Always use private virtual numbers from trusted sources such as:
- Providers where you can buy google voice number online
- Platforms where you can buy sms online safely
These options ensure your PayPal account stays secure and verified.
Troubleshooting: If PayPal Rejects the Number
If verification fails:
- Try switching to another virtual number from a different region.
- Clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode.
- Make sure the number can receive international SMS.
Some countries have stricter rules than others, so using a U.S. or U.K. number often helps.
Final Thoughts
While PayPal does not officially allow accounts without any phone number at all, you can safely create and manage your account without using your personal SIM card. The best solution is to purchase a stable and private virtual number from trusted providers.
This way, your PayPal account becomes:
- Verified
- Secure
- Recoverable
- Long-term safe
Using services like buy google voice number online or buy sms online gives you the flexibility to register PayPal without exposing your real phone number while still staying compliant with PayPal’s verification requirements.