To Ebay or not to Ebay?

[Chris Counts]

For some time, I've considered leaving eBay to try my hand at finding cards and stuff at shows and online auctions. But most of the items I've acquired over the past decade have come from eBay — and I'm very happy with what I've found there.

Like many, I've grown frustrated with all the junk that clogs my searches, the countless reprints, and the endless fees. But today, I was thrown for an unexpected loop when I couldn't pay for a transaction using eBay's PayPal. After talking to a customer service representative, I learned that because I've spent a certain amount of money using Paypal, they need more personal info from me, such as my physical address and a bank routing number. My debit card is no longer good enough.

Just a month ago, my checking account was hacked and I'm still sorting out the mess. Meanwhile, when I tried to upgrade my internet service two weeks ago, AT&T insisted I give them my social security number, which I refused. They later backed off. Basically, I'm tired of giving out info to private companies unless it has a specific useful purpose. And PayPal does not need my physical address. A P.O. Box should be good enough.

Now I have a cancelled PayPal account. So I have two questions: Can I still use eBay and pay without Paypal (I've heard yes AND no many times)? And has anybody else here stopped using eBay and turned to other sources for finding cards and stuff?