PayID serves as a simplified alternative to traditional BSB and account number combinations, allowing you to link your Commonwealth Bank (CommBank) account to a recognizable identifier like your mobile phone number or email address. When someone pays you, they use this identifier rather than requiring your full banking details, which reduces the potential for manual data entry errors.
Setting up this feature requires verifying that you own the mobile number or email you intend to use. This verification step ensures that payments are routed to the correct account, maintaining security for both the sender and the receiver.
PayID Registration Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Methods | CommBank app or NetBank online portal |
| Processing time | Verification typically completes within minutes |
| Eligibility | Active CommBank transaction account holders |
| Key requirements | Registered mobile number or email address and NetBank access |
To use Commonwealth Bank PayID, you first need to register the option with CommBank, for this:
- in Internet banking:
- sign in to the program
- press Menu
- choose "Settings"
- click "PayID"
- follow the prompts
in the mobile app:
- sign in to the program
- tap Profile
- choose "Manage PayID"
- select the kind of PayID
- select the banking account to be linked to the PayID
- confirm the changes with the NetCode, sent by the bank
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- MFA / Login Issues: Cause: An outdated mobile number on your profile prevents the SMS verification code from reaching you. Fix: Update your contact details in the 'Profile and settings' section before starting the registration. Fallback: Call CommBank support at 13 2221 to verify your identity and update your mobile details verbally.
- Browser or App Errors: Cause: Cached data in your browser or an outdated version of the CommBank app interferes with the verification prompt. Fix: Clear your browser cache or update the app through your device's app store to the latest version. Fallback: Use a private browsing window or a different device to complete the registration.
- Locked Account / ID Access Issues: Cause: Multiple failed attempts to verify your PayID trigger an automated security hold to protect your profile. Fix: Wait for the temporary lock period to expire, which is typically a few hours, before retrying. Fallback: Visit a local CommBank branch with your physical photo ID so staff can manually restore your account access.
Pro-Tip: Registering your mobile number as your PayID is often the most practical approach. Since most people already have your mobile number saved in their contacts, it lowers the risk of them making a mistake when they try to pay you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I link the same PayID to multiple bank accounts?
The system maps a single PayID to one specific bank account at a time to ensure payments arrive exactly where you intend. If you attempt to link a mobile number that is already connected to an account at another bank, the system will prompt you to transfer the PayID from that institution to CommBank or select a different identifier. If you have multiple accounts and want to switch where your payments go, you must deregister the PayID from the first account before registering it for the second. Your practical next step is to decide which account you use most frequently for receiving funds and link your primary mobile number to that one.
What happens if I change my mobile number after registering?
Your PayID remains linked to the specific number or email you originally verified. If you change your phone number, the old PayID will eventually stop working or become associated with the person who inherits your old number. The system does not automatically update your PayID when you update your profile contact details. You need to log into the CommBank app, deregister your old PayID, and register your new mobile number to ensure you keep receiving payments without interruption. Your practical next step is to perform this switch as soon as you secure your new phone number.
