Steps to Deactivate Your Klarna Account

In 2024, the total value of Klarna reached nearly $91 billion, with a processing volume of approximately $93 billion. Still, according to Statista’s analysis of key global brands in the buy now pay later (BNPL) sector, the market remains largely underexplored. This is likely because many countries lack proper regulations for this new payment method.

Active users and gross merchandise volume (GMV) of leading BNPL providers from 2022 to 2024
Active users and gross merchandise volume (GMV) of leading BNPL providers from 2022 to 2024. Image source

Despite this staggering growth, BNPL can get overwhelming pretty easily. If you’re tired of using such apps and want to return to traditional payment methods, here’s a guide on how to delete a Klarna account.

This information will also be of use if you do not want to grant permission for your data to be shared with credit agencies, which can negatively impact your credit rating. Here’s what you’ll need to do.

Checking for Outstanding Payments

There are several ways to check your outstanding balance, but the most convenient method is through the app itself. Open it and go to the Purchases section.

At the top of the screen, you can find your outstanding balance. If you have debts from multiple orders, you can view them in more detail by scrolling down.

Deleting Payment Methods

If you decide to stop using Klarna, your personal data can be deleted directly through the app.

To remove payment method information, follow these steps:

  • Step 1. Navigate to the Payment Methods section.
  • Step 2. Tap the card you want to remove.
  • Step 3. Click “Remove saved card” and confirm by selecting “Remove connected card.”

If you have added several payment methods to your account, you will need to repeat the procedure for each one.

To turn off automatic payment data filling:

  • Step 1. Open the Control Center.
  • Step 2. Go to the Privacy and Security menu.
  • Step 3. Select the Autofill at Checkout option.
  • Step 4. Toggle the autofill feature off.

Now, you can be sure that your payment methods are safe.

How to Delete a Klarna Account Permanently?

After paying off all outstanding payments, contact customer support to close the Klarna account. Here’s how to delete a Klarna account online:

  • Step 1. Launch the Klarna app and open the “You” tab. Next to the settings section, click the “Help” button.
  • Step 2. In the help section, find the “Personal Data” option and click on it.
  • Step 3. In the Personal Data section, find the data deletion option and scroll to the bottom of the page. Click the “Contact Us” button. You can use any of the methods provided in this section.
  • Step 4. On the support page, select the suitable interaction option. To send an online message, choose the first option. For live chat, choose the second one.
  • Step 5. In the message, specify that you want to delete the Klarna account and describe it in your own words. After you’re done, click the “Send Message” button.

Continue communicating with the customer support representative to complete the deletion process. If you’ve selected the message format, all responses will be displayed on the main page of the Help section.

After completing all the necessary steps, you will receive confirmation that you have successfully addressed the issue. It is recommended to save this email.

And that’s how to close a Klarna account. But what happens next?

  • Your personal data, including your name, address, email, and financial information, will be removed entirely from the system.
  • After deleting your account, you will no longer be able to use previously set-up credits or payment methods. Any outstanding balances must be closed before deletion.
  • You will no longer be able to use any of the offered services, including the “Buy Now, Pay Later” option or other methods.
  • After deletion, your account cannot be recovered. If you decide to use Klarna again later, you will have to create a new one through customer support.
  • Loss of access to transaction history. If you wish to keep this information, you should download it in advance.

Suppose you have requested the deletion of personal data. In that case, it will be permanently lost, except for information that financial institutions involved are required to keep according to the law, as outlined in Klarna’s Privacy Policy.

Alternatives to Deleting Your Klarna Account

Consider other solutions that may better meet your needs:

  1. Keep the account active. If you are unsure about leaving the service for good, you can stop using the app and remove your payment information. This will allow you to return to using Klarna in the future without having to create a new profile.
  2. Delete credit card data. If you’re concerned about the safety of your payment details in the Klarna system, you can remove your card information from your account. This will allow you to use the service when needed without storing sensitive data on the platform.
  3. Use Klarna’s one-time cards feature. A one-time card is a virtual payment method created for a single transaction, allowing you to avoid sharing financial information with the seller.

Final Thoughts

Deleting your Klarna account requires some time and effort. You need to handle your outstanding balance, remove payment methods, and contact customer support.

However, if you follow the steps outlined in our guide on how to cancel a Klarna account, this process will only take a few minutes.