The PayPal card allows you to use the money securely stored in your account on the platform to make purchases or withdraw cash from an ATM. In order to use it, though, you must first activate it. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to activate the PayPal card safely and quickly.
Luckily, activating the card is quick. Log in to your account, go to the Wallet page, and then to the PayPal Debit Card section. On the next page, select the activation option, where you’ll be asked to enter the card’s number, expiration date, and CVV/CVC code. After that, all you have to do is hit the activation button, and you’ll be ready to spend.
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How to Activate the PayPal Card
Activating cards here is very simple. Once you do, you’ll be able to load the card, pay with it, and withdraw cash from your account at any ATM. Here are the steps:
- Log into your account,
- Click on the “Wallet” tab at the top of the page,
- There, find the section labeled “PayPal Debit Card,”
- Then, click on the link that says “Activate,”
- There you’ll be asked to enter the number, CVV/CVC code, and expiration date, and to create a PIN,
- Finally, click on the activation button at the bottom of the page.
The Step-By-Step Guide to Activating Your New Debit Card
It seems like activating cards on an app or creating a new account is easy enough, but you’d be surprised how many people know little about those things. It’s perfectly OK to ask when you don’t understand everything.
People have asked about using Visa gift cards with PayPal, making business accounts, and even how to change their addresses. If the steps above aren’t enough, we’ll explain several in detail below.
To Activate, You Must First Log in to Your PayPal Account
Before activating or looking up cards, you must access your account on the platform using the official site or phone application. Enter your email address and password, and you’ll be logged in.
If you don’t have an account, you can easily sign up for one by providing your name and email, and creating a password. Of course, keep this information secure by not sharing it with others and by regularly updating your password.
If you ever have trouble logging in, click on the “help” option for step-by-step instructions or contact PayPal’s customer support team for assistance.
Enter Your Card Information
Now that you’re logged in, navigate to the “Cards” section and select the one you wish to activate; finally, click on the activation button.
You will then be prompted to enter the number, expiration date, and CVV/CVC code. In short, these are:
- Your card number – this is the 16-digit number found across the middle front area on most cards,
- The expiration date – this is the number in the format MM/YY, typically found just below the sixteen digits; it’s typically labeled with ‘Valid Thru,’
- CVV/CVC – this is the three-digit security code found on the back area on most cards.
Once this has been successfully entered, your card will be activated and ready for use. Updating and maintaining accurate info also helps protect against fraud and unauthorized charges, so keep it updated as needed.
Wait for the Activation Process to Finish
Just like waiting for a pending transaction, you need to wait for the activation process to fully finish. And while your money should be ready for use within minutes, keep in mind that if you’re activating it for the first time, it may take a few days to arrive in the mail before you can use it at retail locations. However, you can start shopping online immediately after activating.
Is It Better to Activate Cards on the Computer or the App?
Whether you go through the activation process on your computer or mobile phone app ultimately depends on your preference and comfort with technology. Both activation methods have their pros and cons.
Activating cards on a computer may be easier for those familiar with desktop platforms, while those who prefer mobile technology may want to use the app. In terms of security, both options offer similar levels of protection and encrypt sensitive information.
The App Is Always There With You, but You Should Decide What’s Easier
For convenience and accessibility, activating cards on the app may be the better option. As long as you have an internet connection, you can use it anywhere and at any time. Additionally, the mobile version offers a step-by-step activation guide and instant notifications upon successfully activating cards.
However, if you prefer a more visual approach or need additional assistance, activating your card on a computer may be a better fit. PayPal’s desktop site provides a visual demonstration of the activation process and enables you to easily access customer service for any questions or issues.
What if the Activation Process Doesn’t Work Online?
In short, there may be some activation issues when you try to do it for the first time. If the process doesn’t seem to be working well online, whether it’s your computer or mobile device, here are a few issues that could be preventing the process from completing:
- Your internet connection is weak, unstable, or completely down,
- You haven’t entered the correct card info upon activation,
- Your personal info is incorrect or incomplete.
If you’ve entered everything correctly but nothing’s happening, you can contact PayPal’s customer service. They have a 24-hour automated activation line that provides steps for activating cards.
Activating Your PayPal Card Is a New Path to Safe Spending and Saving
This debit card is a great way to access your balance anywhere MasterCard is accepted. But first, you’ll need to activate it. With the steps above, you’ll hopefully learn how to quickly and safely enable the usage of any new cards on the platform.
As with any financial transaction, ensure the ones you make with this account are safe, and that all your data is stored in a secure place. You can also apply for PayPal Credit and get the most out of the platform as your trusted financial institution.