How to unlink MPesa from PayPal is a common question in Kenya when users change their Safaricom line, switch devices, or want to reset their PayPal Mobile Money connection. The unlinking process is quick and can be done fully online without calling support or visiting a Safaricom shop.
This guide shows the exact steps, what happens after unlinking, and why some users are unable to remove their number from PayPal.
Quick Recap
- Log in to the PayPal Mobile Money website
- Find your linked M-Pesa number
- Select Unlink or Remove Number
- Confirm to disconnect the account
- Re-link anytime using your new Safaricom line
Why People Unlink MPesa from PayPal
You may need to unlink your M-Pesa number from PayPal if:
- You changed your Safaricom line
- Your PayPal name doesn’t match your new line
- You want to fix linking errors
- You are switching to a new PayPal account
- You want to refresh the PayPal Mobile Money connection
How to Unlink MPesa from PayPal (Step-by-Step)
These are the official steps used in Kenya:
- Go to the PayPal Mobile Money with M-Pesa website.
- Log in using your PayPal email and password.
- On the homepage, find your linked M-Pesa number.
- Click Unlink or Remove Number.
- Confirm the action to disconnect your Safaricom line.
- Your M-Pesa number is now removed from PayPal.
How to Unlink MPesa from PayPal Online (Alternative Method)
If the button doesn’t appear on the website, try this:
- Log in to your PayPal account directly.
- Go to Settings.
- Open the Payments tab.
- Look for connected apps like Thunes or Mobile Money.
- Remove or revoke access.
- Refresh the PayPal Mobile Money website and re-link your new number.
Why Can’t I Unlink My M-Pesa Number from PayPal?
You may not see the unlink button because:
- Your PayPal identity verification is incomplete
- Your name on PayPal does not match your M-Pesa registration
- You recently linked the number, and PayPal has a temporary lock
- You have a pending withdrawal
- PayPal is reviewing your account for security reasons
- Fix the issue and try again.
What Happens After Unlinking?
Once you unlink M-Pesa from PayPal:
- You cannot withdraw from PayPal to M-Pesa
- You cannot deposit from M-Pesa to PayPal
- Your old Safaricom number is not connected anymore
- You can link a new number instantly
- No transaction history is deleted
Can I Link a New M-Pesa Number After Removing the Old One?
Yes. Just return to the PayPal Mobile Money website and link your new Safaricom line. The process takes less than two minutes.
FAQs
1. How do I remove a linked account from PayPal?
Go to PayPal Settings → Payments → Manage automatic payments → Remove the service.
2. Can I unlink M-Pesa from PayPal in Kenya using the app?
No. You must use the PayPal Mobile Money website.
3. Why can’t I remove my M-Pesa account from PayPal?
Your account may be under review, or your name may not match Safaricom records.
4. Can I re-link the same M-Pesa number later?
Yes. Just repeat the linking steps again.
5. Does unlinking affect PayPal balance?
No. Your PayPal account balance stays unchanged.
If you want to connect your new Safaricom line, see our guide on how to link PayPal to MPesa with simple step-by-step instructions.
Tarun Asrani is the founder and editor-in-chief of SmartAfricaGuide. With extensive experience in digital publishing and content strategy, he leads the platform’s focus on finance, scholarships, e-learning, and career opportunities shaping Africa today. Tarun visits Africa twice a year, gaining first-hand exposure to local education systems, job markets, and emerging technologies. He also closely follows African news, university updates, and government initiatives to ensure SmartAfricaGuide delivers timely, accurate, and practical insights grounded in real regional experience.
