PayPal and SS numbers

[dpd1]

I never got around to doing the merchant discount on PayPal. So I went to sign up and noticed they want an SS#. I'm not typically the super paranoid type, but... I don't recall them taking SS on the initial account start-up. Then on the other hand, I would assume they'd have it by now anyway, one way or another. Plus, I can withdraw as much as I want, so they must have it. But either way, I'm wondering why they ask for it to get the percentage discount.

[digitalv]

Have you asked them?

[dpd1]

No... But I figured it was a fair guess that they wouldn't tell me the real reason. lol They usually don't.

[dcheney]

My guess (and only a guess) is that they are preparing for the new reporting requirements for credit & debit card processors which go into effect next year in the US.

[jwolthuis]

I'm not aware of the requirements. Can you provide a date when they go into effect, what exactly they will be reporting, and to which governments?